Opelika

Opelika is a city in and the county seat of Lee County, Alabama, United States. It is a principal city of the Auburn-Opelika Metropolitan Area. As of the 2020 census, the population of Opelika was 30,995.

History

Opelika was officially incorporated on February 9, 1854. The name "Opelika" is derived from a Muscogee word meaning "large swamp." The city's early growth was spurred by the arrival of the Montgomery and West Point Railroad in 1848, which made it a key transportation hub in the region.

During the American Civil War, Opelika was a significant supply center for the Confederate forces. The city experienced rapid growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, driven by the textile industry.

Geography

Opelika is located in eastern Alabama, approximately 60 miles east of Montgomery and 30 miles west of Columbus, Georgia. The city covers a total area of 60.8 square miles, of which 60.7 square miles is land and 0.1 square miles is water.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, the racial composition of Opelika was 50.2% White, 42.3% African American, 1.2% Asian, and 1.1% from other races. The median household income was $42,000, and the per capita income was $23,000.

Economy

Opelika's economy has historically been based on the textile industry, but it has diversified in recent years. Major employers include the East Alabama Medical Center, Auburn University, and various manufacturing and retail businesses.

Education

Opelika is served by the Opelika City Schools system, which includes Opelika High School, Opelika Middle School, and several elementary schools. The city is also in close proximity to Auburn University, a major public research university.

Transportation

Opelika is served by several major highways, including Interstate 85, U.S. Route 29, and U.S. Route 280. The city also has a small regional airport, the Auburn-Opelika Robert G. Pitts Airport.

Healthcare

The primary healthcare provider in Opelika is the East Alabama Medical Center, which offers a wide range of medical services to the community.

Notable People

• Charles Barkley, former professional basketball player and television analyst, was born in Leeds, Alabama, but grew up in Opelika.
• James V. Martin, aviation pioneer, was born in Opelika.

Related Pages

• Auburn, Alabama
• Lee County, Alabama
• Auburn-Opelika Metropolitan Area
• East Alabama Medical Center
• Auburn University