Okemos, Michigan is an unincorporated community and census-designated space located in Ingham County. Okemos is primarily located within Meridian Charter Township, but small sections extend south into Alaiedon Township and east into Williamstown Township.
Okemos started out as a farming community and was founded in 1839. Its original name was Hamilton, but the name was changed in 1859 to honor the Native American Chief John Okemos. You can still find a nod to the original name as the downtown area is centered around Hamilton Road. The center of Okemos is called “The Four Corners” because it’s located at the intersection of Hamilton and Okemos roads.
This Lansing suburb is a coveted place to live for employees of Michigan State University. It is a quieter place to live than its neighboring city of East Lansing but still close enough that there isn’t much of a commute to the university. Okemos is also home to Meridian Mall and the year-round Meridian Farmers’ Market.
The Red Cedar River flows east to west through Okemos. People who enjoy the water can walk along its banks or head over to nearby Lake Lansing, which is located in Haslett.
Okemos was number one on Niche’s list of best places to live in Michigan for 2020 and 2021. It’s a great place to raise a family as its public schools are very highly rated.
