Is McAlester Safe, Pros and cons of living in McAlester

McAlester, Oklahoma, offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it a unique place to consider for relocation. The city is known for its significant role in the state’s history, particularly through its connection to coal mining and its status as home to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. This rich background shapes the character of the community, providing a sense of rootedness and local pride.

The cost of living in McAlester is notably lower than the national average, contributing to its appeal for those seeking financial flexibility. With a cost of living index that is 8% lower than the national average, residents can expect savings across various categories like housing, groceries, utilities, and transportation (according to Payscale). This affordability, combined with a strong sense of community, presents a compelling case for making McAlester a new home.

Is it Safe to Live in McAlester?

Crime Rates

McAlester’s crime rate presents a mixed picture, with overall crime rates being higher than the national average. The city experiences 42.38 total crimes per 1,000 residents annually (as reported by AreaVibes). This figure is 29% higher than the national average, with property crimes contributing significantly to this statistic.

Violent crime rates in McAlester are comparable to the national average, with 369 incidents per 100,000 people (as reported by AreaVibes). However, property crime rates are considerably higher, standing at 2,371 per 100,000 residents, which is 35% above the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). NeighborhoodScout indicates a chance of being a victim of violent crime at 1 in 270 and property crime at 1 in 42.

Neighborhood Safety

While overall crime rates are a concern, safety can vary significantly by neighborhood within McAlester. Residents generally consider the northern parts of the city to be the safest areas. Your likelihood of being a victim of crime can range from 1 in 18 in the northwest neighborhoods to 1 in 33 in the north (as reported by IDcide).

The cost of crime per resident in McAlester is approximately $611 per year, which is higher than both the national and state averages (as reported by AreaVibes). This figure includes criminal justice system costs, direct costs to victims, and lost economic contributions from offenders.

Cost of Living and Housing

Overall Affordability

McAlester offers a cost of living that is generally lower than both the state and national averages. The overall cost of living in McAlester is 8% lower than the national average (according to Payscale), and 6% lower than the state average (as reported by Extra Space Storage).

This affordability extends to essential expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation. Groceries are about 5% cheaper than the national average, while utilities are approximately 6.5% less expensive (as reported by Extra Space Storage). Transportation costs, including gas prices and bus fares, are also about 11% lower than the national average (as reported by Payscale).

Housing Market

The housing market in McAlester is characterized by accessible prices, making it an attractive option for homebuyers. The median home price in McAlester is approximately $151,600 (as reported by Data USA), which is below the national average. For sellers, the median listing price is around $180,000, reflecting a significant year-over-year increase in the median sale price (as reported by Realtor.com).

Rental costs in McAlester are also relatively affordable. The median rent price stands at $1,200 per month (as reported by Realtor.com), though this has seen a year-over-year increase of 26.32% (as reported by Realtor.com). Houses for rent in McAlester have an average monthly cost of $1,495, with prices ranging from $1,350 to $2,000 (as reported by Trulia).

Economic Landscape

Job Market and Major Employers

McAlester’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, healthcare, education, and government. Key employers in the city include McAlester Regional Health Center, which employs around 800 individuals, and McAlester Public Schools, with approximately 360 employees (as reported by the City of McAlester, OK). The Oklahoma State Penitentiary and the Jackie Brannon Correctional Center are also significant employers (as reported by the City of McAlester, OK).

The McAlester Army Ammunition Plant is a major economic driver, serving as the primary site for ammunition production and storage for the U.S. armed forces. This facility, along with others like Berry Plastics Corporation and Choctaw Defense, provides substantial employment opportunities within the region (as reported by the City of McAlester, OK).

Salaries and Unemployment

The average annual salary in McAlester is approximately $42,596, which translates to about $20.48 per hour (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median household income in McAlester was reported as $51,930 in a recent year (as reported by Data USA). However, the unemployment rate in McAlester stands at 6.9% (as reported by Point2Homes).

While rural southeast Oklahoma generally experiences high unemployment rates, McAlester benefits from its position as a regional center. This situation can be advantageous for employers seeking a workforce and for employees looking for opportunities without needing to relocate far from the region (as reported by the City of McAlester, OK).

Climate and Environment

Temperatures and Seasons

McAlester experiences distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from 29°F to 95°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The summer months, from June to August, can be uncomfortably humid.

The hottest month in McAlester is typically August, with average highs around 93°F and lows near 70°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather). In contrast, January sees the coldest temperatures, with average highs of 52°F and lows of 30°F (as reported by myPerfectWeather).

Precipitation and Weather Patterns

McAlester receives an average annual precipitation of about 47 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). The wettest month is typically May, with an average of 6 inches of rainfall distributed over approximately 12 rainy days (as reported by myPerfectWeather). February is generally drier, with around 2 inches of rain over about 7 rainy days.

The city experiences an annual snowfall averaging 2 inches (as reported by myPerfectWeather). Overall, McAlester has a climate that can be described as having significant seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation.

Education and Demographics

School System

McAlester is served by McAlester Public Schools, which operates several educational institutions. The district has a total of 9 public schools serving approximately 3,649 students (as reported by Public School Review). Frink-Chambers Public School is recognized for its strong performance, ranking among the top elementary schools in Oklahoma and exceeding state averages in key subjects (as reported by SchoolDigger.com).

McAlester Public Schools have an average math proficiency score of 37% and a reading proficiency score of 37%, both of which are higher than the state averages (as reported by Public School Review). The district’s overall testing rank places it in the top 20% of Oklahoma school districts (as reported by Public School Review).

Population and Demographics

As of the most recent data, McAlester is home to approximately 18,111 residents (as reported by Data USA). The population is diverse, with White residents making up a significant portion, followed by American Indian and Alaska Native, and then other racial groups (as reported by Data USA). In 2024, 1.99% of residents were born outside the country (as reported by Data USA).

The median age in McAlester is around 35.6 years (as reported by Data USA). The population distribution shows a notable percentage of residents in the 25 to 44 age group. The gender distribution is approximately 52% male and 48% female (as reported by IDcide).