Get to know Washington, Oklahoma: New Home Guide

Living in Washington

The town of Washington, Oklahoma, prides itself on four important things that tell you just about everything you need to know: small town values, a strong educational system, community pride, and friendly neighbors.

Just 15 minutes west of Norman and 20 minutes north of Purcell, Washington offers the best of both worlds. With fewer than 800 residents, it’s a true small town that’s quiet, peaceful, and full of open sky. Add in top-rated public schools and easy access to big-city amenities, and it’s easy to see why families are putting down roots here.

New Homes in Washington, OK 

Ideal Homes & Neighborhoods is proud to offer new construction homes in Dow’s Hills, a scenic, rural neighborhood with mature trees, rolling hills, and ponds. Every homesite features at least one acre of land, giving you convenient country living at its finest. 

Dow’s Hills features energy-efficient homes ranging from 1,550 sq. ft. to 2,888 sq. ft., with customizable floor plans, modern finishes, and a tranquil setting.

Thinking about putting down roots in Dow’s Hills? Here’s everything you need to know about making Washington, Oklahoma, home. 

Schools & Education

Washington Public Schools

Think you need a big school district to give your kids the best education? Think again. Washington Public Schools combine high academic standards with small class sizes, passionate teachers, and a true sense of community. From Pre-K through graduation, students are known by name and challenged to grow, lead, and succeed.

Washington Public Schools consistently score high in rankings. Along with its A- rating on Niche, it is ranked in the top 5% for athletics in Oklahoma and in the top 15% of school districts overall.

Students at Dow’s Hills attend the following schools:

Washington Elementary School | Niche Rating A- 

Washington’s only elementary school includes free Pre-K. Within the school is the 4th and 5th Grade Center.

Washington Middle School | Niche Rating: A-

With less than 300 students and a high student-to-teacher ratio, Washington Middle School offers a safe, supportive environment during the pre-teen years.

Washington High School | Niche Rating: B+

Washington High Schools is a place where students have opportunities in academics and athletics, and where the whole town turns out to cheer them on. It received the College Success Award in recognition of the number of its graduates who enroll in and stick with college. Students have access to AP Courses, Gifted and Talented Programs, and can join clubs that range from the Robotics Team to Future Farmers of America. 

In athletics, the Washington Warriors have won 55 state championships, including four in the 2024-2025 school year alone: baseball, slow-pitch softball, girls’ track, and girls' basketball. The football team took home the state championship in 2024.

Shopping & Dining

Washington offers the best of both worlds: the quiet of rural living with convenient access to nearby cities. Within Washington itself, you’ll find local gems like Althea’s Vault for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and Trek Coffee Comp Co., a locally owned coffee shop that roasts its own beans. 

Need more options? Norman is just 15 minutes away, with big-box stores, local boutiques, and everything from casual bites to fine dining.

Recreation & Outdoor Activities

The landscape in and around Washington invites you to get outside. Along with your rural, one-acre homesite, you have plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature. If you want nature trails, you can visit nearby Lake Thunderbird. If college sports are your thing, the University of Oklahoma is just 20 minutes away, offering year-round access to top-tier athletics.

History of Washington

Washington was founded in the early 1900s and grew to a little over 300 residents by the 1920s thanks to the cotton and lumber businesses that came to town. With Washington’s population now just exceeding 800, it has stayed true to its small-town roots. 

The origin of the town’s name isn’t entirely clear, but don’t worry, that hasn’t stopped the debate. Everyone from historians to locals have opinions. Some believe it honors President Washington, but local lore credits the name to Caddo chief "Little Boy" George Washington, who once called the area home.

Commuting from Washington

Washington offers an easy commute to Norman, Purcell, and southwest Oklahoma City.

Located near Highway 74 and just minutes from I-35, the town is a peaceful home base for commuters.

Major employers nearby include the University of Oklahoma, Johnson Controls, and healthcare providers like Norman Regional Health System and Purcell Municipal Hospital.

Estimated drive times to major destinations:

• Norman – 15 minutes
• Purcell – 20 minutes
• University of Oklahoma – 20 minutes
• Downtown Oklahoma City – 40 minutes
• Will Rogers World Airport – 45 minutes

Find Your Ideal Home in Washington

Looking for new homes in Washington, Oklahoma, where your kids can thrive, your neighbors become friends, and your weekends feel like a breath of fresh air?

Dow’s Hills by Ideal Homes offers modern, energy-efficient homes in a quiet small-town setting with excellent schools, outdoor space, and easy access to everything you need.

We can’t wait to welcome you home!