Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mcalester, OK
Considering a move to McAlester, OK? With a friendly population of 17,686 and a median home price of just $109,000, McAlester offers affordable living and short 17-minute average commutes. While property crime rates are above national average, the city boasts plenty of sunny days, a reasonable cost of living, and access to local schools and healthcare. Enjoy a welcoming small-town vibe, low rents, and a mild Oklahoma climate as you settle into this southeastern city.
Demographics - Mcalester, OK
Demographics - Mcalester, OK
McAlester is home to about 17,700 residents, offering a moderate population density and a median age close to 40. The community is predominantly White, with significant Black and Native American populations, reflecting the city’s diverse heritage. Non-English speakers make up just over 6% of the population, contributing to a welcoming, multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
17,686
Density:
900 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.9
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
68.0%
Black:
9.2%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
13.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mcalester, OK?
Living in McAlester is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values at $109,000. Average rents are around $820, and utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, making the city attractive for budget-conscious families and retirees. State taxes are moderate, supporting a cost-effective lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$109,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
0.5%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
54.8
Utilities:
98.3
Transportation:
80.5
Health Care:
84.7
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Mcalester, OK a safe place to live?
While McAlester experiences a higher rate of property crime, with a 1 in 35 chance, violent crime is less common with a rate of 357 incidents per 100,000 people. Most residents find that taking standard precautions helps ensure safety. The overall crime index suggests that, like many small cities, McAlester has areas to watch but remains community-focused.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
357
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,820
Crime Index:
3,177
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 280
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 35
Weather
What is the weather like in Mcalester, OK year-round?
McAlester enjoys a mild climate, with winter lows around 29°F and summer highs reaching the low 90s. The city receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually and boasts sunshine on 63% of days, making for pleasant outdoor living. Seasonal changes are noticeable, bringing comfortable springs and falls ideal for enjoying local parks.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
50°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Local households in McAlester typically earn a median income of $44,700, with a family median above $56,000. Nearly 85% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average a short 17 minutes. The community is friendly and tight-knit, with a low unemployment rate and affordable average rents.
Median Income:
$33,500
Household Income:
$44,700
Family Income:
$56,900
Per Capita Income:
$23,200
Income Male:
$39,000
Income Female:
$29,700
Poverty Rate:
18.9%
Non English Speakers:
6.1%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
17.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.4%
Bachelors or More:
15.8%
Education
How are the schools in Mcalester, OK?
McAlester offers quality public and private school options and is home to campuses of Eastern Oklahoma State College and Carl Albert State College. Public schools have favorable student-teacher ratios, supporting personalized learning. Local higher education and a strong high school graduation rate make the city appealing for families.
Public Schools
Name:
McAlester High School
Street:
1 Buffalo Dr
Phone:
918-423-4776
Students:
1,030
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Puterbaugh Middle School
Street:
325 E Illinois Ave
Phone:
918-423-4647
Students:
730
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
Lakewood Christian School
Street:
840 Lakewood Dr
Phone:
918-423-2952
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
Eastern Oklahoma State College – McAlester Campus
City:
McAlester
State:
OK
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,000
Name:
Carl Albert State College – McAlester Campus
City:
McAlester
State:
OK
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
400
Healthcare
Residents have access to the McAlester Regional Health Center, a full-service hospital with emergency care, and about 87% of locals are insured. There are 1.3 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring reasonable access to medical professionals. The city’s healthcare index indicates generally good service for a city its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
McAlester Regional Health Center
Address:
1 Clark Bass Blvd, McAlester, OK 74501
Phone:
(918) 426-1800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.9%
Health Care Index:
62.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mcalester, OK?
The McAlester housing market is characterized by affordability, with median home prices at $109,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $820. Homeownership is common, with over 60% of residents owning their homes, and the market sees steady appreciation. Rental vacancies are slightly higher than average, offering flexibility for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$109,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Driver and vehicle services in McAlester are managed by the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, with the nearest main office located in Oklahoma City. Residents can access licensing and registration information online or by phone. The department provides comprehensive support for all DMV needs in the state.
State:
Oklahoma
Department:
Oklahoma Department of Public Safety
Address:
3600 N Martin Luther King Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73111
Phone:
1-405-425-2300
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.