McAlester, OK demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,111
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,930/yr
8.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,188
0.3% year-over-year change

McAlester population

How many people live in McAlester

McAlester is home to 18,111 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.3% of McAlester locals are male, and 46.7% are female.

Total population
18,111
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.3%
9,656
Female
46.7%
8,455
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,656 53.3% 1.3%
Female 8,455 46.7% -1.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in McAlester is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.9% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.2% of the population, while another 20.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.9%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
31.2%
45 to 64
20.8%
Over 65
15.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,598 19.9% 2.6%
15 to 24 2,241 12.4% -0.8%
25 to 44 5,654 31.2% 1.3%
45 to 64 3,762 20.8% -2.0%
Over 65 2,856 15.8% -2.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In McAlester, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.5% of locals are Caucasian, 5% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 9.5% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,684 97.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 171 0.9% -31.3%
Non-citizens 256 1.4% -6.2%
Racial breakdown
White
66.5%
Black or African American
5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
9.5%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
16.8%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 12,043 66.5%
Black or African American 900 5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,726 9.5%
Asian 134 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 64 0.4%
Two or more races 3,044 16.8%
Other 200 1.1%

Households in McAlester

A peek inside McAlester households

McAlester has 7,200 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.6% are families, while the remaining 41.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,200
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,983
Family households
4,217
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,983 41.4% 0.8%
Family households 4,217 58.6% 0.1%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in McAlester

The housing landscape of McAlester

McAlester's housing consists of 8,188 units, with 80.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,188
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,575 80.3%
1 unit, attached 83 1%
2 units 342 4.2%
3 or 4 units 177 2.2%
5 to 9 units 377 4.6%
10 to 19 units 116 1.4%
20 to 49 units 76 0.9%
50 or more units 284 3.5%
Mobile home 140 1.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 18 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
41
485.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in McAlester

In McAlester, the median construction year is 1971. About 11.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 944 11.5% -6.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 802 9.8% -14.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,131 13.8% 1.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,049 12.8% -5.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,297 15.8% 6.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 851 10.4% 6.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 650 7.9% 8.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 808 9.9% -9.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 615 7.5% 30.0%
Built in 2020 or later 41 0.5% 485.7%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

McAlester occupancy rates

Out of the 7,200 occupied housing units in McAlester, 58.5% are owner-occupied, while 41.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,200
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,987
Owner occupied
4,213
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,987 41.5% 0.0%
Owner occupied 4,213 58.5% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
12.1%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

McAlester housing costs

Housing costs in McAlester come to a median of $905 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $915.

Median housing costs per month
$905/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in McAlester
$915/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in McAlester

McAlester education at a glance

About 46.6% of the population in McAlester went to high school, while 21.5% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 12.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 602 4.4% 5.2%
High school diploma 6,446 46.6% -3.4%
College diploma 2,968 21.5% 1.7%
Associate degree 1,164 8.4% 1.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,720 12.4% 1.2%
Graduate degree 922 6.7% 1.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in McAlester

How much people earn in McAlester

The average annual household income in McAlester was $70,610 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,930, reflecting a +8.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in McAlester
$70,610/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in McAlester
$51,930/year
8.1% year-over-year change

McAlester income by age

In McAlester, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $67,273. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $49,500 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,806, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,375 in earnings. Overall, 80.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,806 1.6%
25 - 44 $67,273 11.3%
45 - 64 $49,500 1.7%
Over 65 $45,375 9.0%
Above poverty level
12,717
Below poverty level
3,101
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,717 80.4% 3.1%
Below poverty level 3,101 19.6% -10.8%

Average renter income in McAlester

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in McAlester, their median household income was $27,754 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$27,754
Rent-to-income ratio
39.6%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in McAlester

Workforce and job types in McAlester

The job market in McAlester is powered by 7,052 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.3% run their own businesses, 53.4% are employed by private companies, and 30.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,052
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,546
Blue collar
1,506
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,546 78.6% -0.4%
Blue collar 1,506 21.4% 8.4%
Employer type
Self employees
7.3%
Private companies
53.4%
Governmental workers
30.7%
Not for profit companies
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 515 7.3% -12.6%
Private companies 3,764 53.4% -1.2%
Governmental workers 2,162 30.7% 11.8%
Not for profit companies 611 8.7% -2.4%
Unemployment rate
6.9%
-13.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in McAlester stands at 6.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in McAlester

How people get around in McAlester

Commuting methods vary: 91.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,360 91.6% 4.2%
Bus or trolleybus 16 0.2% 14.3%
Bicycle 21 0.3% -4.5%
Walk 83 1.2% -46.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in McAlester by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
74501 28,616 11,473 $57,922 $75,550

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FAQs about McAlester demographics 

What is the total population of McAlester?

McAlester has a total population of 18,111 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in McAlester?

The gender ratio in McAlester is as follows:
  • 53.3% males (9,656 residents)
  • 46.7% females (8,455 residents)

What is the median age in McAlester?

The median age in McAlester is 35.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in McAlester?

The age distribution in McAlester is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.9% (3,598 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (2,241 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.2% (5,654 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.8% (3,762 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.8% (2,856 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of McAlester?

The racial and ethnic makeup of McAlester is as follows:
  • White: 66.5% (12,043 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5% (900 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 9.5% (1,726 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (134 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (64 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.8% (3,044 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (200 residents)

What percentage of the population in McAlester are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in McAlester.

How many housing units are there in McAlester?

There are 8,188 housing units in McAlester, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in McAlester and what is the average household size?

McAlester has a total of 7,200 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in McAlester?

McAlester has a median household income of $51,930, representing a +8.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for McAlester?

The employment rate is 93.1% in McAlester, with a workforce of 7,052 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.6% (5,546 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.4% (1,506 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.3% (515 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.4% (3,764 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 30.7% (2,162 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.7% (611 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025