McAlester, OK
Population 18,098 · Oklahoma
About McAlester, OK
McAlester is a mid-sized city in Oklahoma with a population of 18,098 residents. The median household income is $48,044 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in McAlester is 35.9 years.
Housing in McAlester has a median home value of $137,500 and median monthly rent of $906. Of the 8,162 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 4,187 owner-occupied and 2,986 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in McAlester is 8.0% and the poverty rate is 22.2%. 20.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.6 minutes.
How McAlester Ranks in Oklahoma
Cost of Living in McAlester, OK
Compared to national averages, McAlester has a median household income of $48,044 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $137,500, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $906 is 22% below the US average of $1,163. Within Oklahoma, McAlester's income is 15% below the state average of $56,382, and home values are 15% above the state median of $119,992.
Why Live in McAlester, OK?
McAlester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $137,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $906/month, and short commute times averaging just 15.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,044) that falls below the national average. However, McAlester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McAlester has a population of 18,098 with a median age of 35.9 years. Compare McAlester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Oklahoma.
Similar Cities Near McAlester
Cities in Oklahoma with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Reno | 17,919 | $54,459 | $157,000 | Compare |
| Altus | 18,670 | $55,550 | $124,800 | Compare |
| Durant | 19,209 | $44,753 | $155,800 | Compare |
| Ada | 16,536 | $51,792 | $169,300 | Compare |
| Tahlequah | 16,513 | $48,515 | $182,800 | Compare |
| Chickasha | 16,349 | $55,039 | $113,200 | Compare |
| Claremore | 19,921 | $57,120 | $172,500 | Compare |
| Sand Springs | 19,973 | $73,400 | $186,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Oklahoma
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about McAlester
What is the population of McAlester, OK?
The population of McAlester, OK is 18,098 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in McAlester?
The median household income in McAlester, OK is $48,044 per year.
What is the median home value in McAlester?
The median home value in McAlester, OK is $137,500.
What is the average rent in McAlester?
The median monthly rent in McAlester, OK is $906.
What is the unemployment rate in McAlester?
The unemployment rate in McAlester, OK is 8.0%.