On the eastern side of Oklahoma, about 130 miles from Oklahoma City, McAlester offers an abundance of outdoor amenities and affordable homes. The city is the county seat of Pittsburg County, with about 18,00 residents. McAlester has kept a steady population count throughout the years, and new residents often come from the nearby industrial plants and government jobs. The city has a small-town feel that keeps its residents around, and McAlester’s community events bring them all together. “McAlester is a great place to raise your kids. There’s not a crazy hustle and bustle, but you can be connected and have a full network of people who are like family to you,” says Kristy Balch, a broker with Leader Group Realty and a resident of McAlester.
Much of McAlester’s employment comes from state and federal institutions, including the Oklahoma State Penitentiary, the Jackie Brannon Correctional Center and the Pittsburg County government. The McAlester Regional Health Center is also a major employer in the area. Other than that, the US Army also brings in a lot of jobs with its ammunition plant. Amazon also announced that it will build a delivery station in McAlester that will bring hundreds of jobs.
The Oklahoma State Penitentiary is situated in McAlester, standing as a notable landmark with a rich past.
McAlester is home to one of the VA outpatient clinics, providing essential healthcare services to veterans.
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Midcentury homes below the national average
The median price for single-family homes in McAlester is around $170,000, lower than the national average. Much of the homes in the city were built between the 1950s and 70s, but there are also some properties built at the turn of the 21st century. “In the past 10 or 15 years it’s really slowed down in terms of new construction or building out neighborhoods,” Balch says. There aren’t too many newly built homes in the area, but lots of land in McAlester sell between $5,000 and $100,000 depending on acreage.
McAlester offers a wide variety of homes to choose from, catering to different tastes and lifestyles.
McAlester boasts a diverse array of home styles scattered throughout the city.
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Lake McAlester and city green spaces
McAlester’s 14 city parks range from neighborhood pocket parks to larger recreational greenspaces. The city also has walking trails in several of its parks, and bicycle lanes along major thoroughfares. McAlester’s master plan for outdoor spaces puts an emphasis on improving the city’s walkability, mainly by building multi-use trails that connect to different parts of the city. Lake McAlester and the Juniper Point Recreation Area are about 10 miles from McAlester, both with several sports for fishing or camping.
Lake McAlester is located just a few miles north of the city, offering a serene retreat with beautiful views.
Rolling hills stretch across McAlester, accentuating the area’s stunning natural landscape.
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Endless pasta at the McAlester Italian Festival
McAlester residents a quick drive down the George Nigh Expressway from trying their luck at the Choctaw Casino. In addition to the day-to-day entertainment at the casino, McAlester hosts several events and festivals throughout the year. The Dancing Rabbit Music Festival brings in music talents from all around the country, and is filled with local vendors and a beer garden. Seasonal festivities like the McWinter Wonderland and the Trick or Treat Party in the Street are filled with local vendors and holiday decorations. The McAlester Italian Festival is one of the longest-running events in town, giving residents a taste of Italy since 1971. The Italian festival takes place at the Southeast Expo Center, which also hosts the PRCA Big V Feeds Rodeo.
Italian cuisine is a beloved favorite in McAlester, with a variety of local restaurants serving up delicious food.
McAlester offers a wide range of dining options that are beloved by locals, from cozy family-owned eateries.
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Downtown McAlester
Downtown McAlester, centered around South Main Street, is home to many of the city’s boutique shops and local restaurants. Italian cuisine is big in McAlester, and there are several restaurants in and around the downtown area. Local food trucks often stop at Arvest Park in the downtown area. For fresh groceries grown from local vendors, residents can shop at the Pittsburg County Farmers Market on Main Street. Outside of the downtown area, many of McAlester’s restaurants, shops, and local businesses are located along the George Nigh Service Road or Carl Albert Parkway.
Downtown McAlester is home to a variety of popular shopping spots, offering unique boutiques.
One of the main roads in McAlester runs through the heart of the city, serving as a bustling thoroughfare.
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Low tornado risk and crime
“We’ll have all four seasons, sometimes in the same day,” Balch says. McAlester experiences hot and humid summers, while winters are cold and often snowy. Unlike the western or southern parts of Oklahoma, McAlester doesn’t have a huge threat of tornados, though high winds throughout the year are likely.
Over the past two years, McAlester’s violent and property crime rates have fluctuated above and around the state and national averages.
McAlester Public Schools district
McAlester is zoned to the McAlester Public Schools district, which has a B-plus grade on Niche. McAlester Public Schools has over 2,900 students in its nine schools. Edmond Doyle Elementary School, which also has a B-plus score, was awarded as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2014 by the US Department of Education. The school district offers an array of programs for its student body, including its athletic and arts programs. The district also offers free adult education and literacy classes.
McAlester offers a wide range of educational options for its residents, with numerous schools throughout the city.
McAlester provides excellent track and field facilities, offering residents top-notch opportunities.
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Getting around Pittsburg County
McAlester is near the middle ground of several major cities, including Oklahoma City to the west, Tulsa to the north and the Dallas-Fort Worth area to the south. US Highway 270 and the George Nigh Expressway are the major highways in the city. McAlester does not have a major public transit system, so a majority of residents drive to get around.
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Strategic commercial land opportunity with 108 feet of frontage on Wyandotte. This offering includes two adjoining parcels totaling approximately 0.30 acres in a proven high-traffic corridor. Excellent visibility, strong access, and flat, usable ground make this site ideal for retail, professional office, medical, quick-service, or service-based development. Utilities available on-site or nearby.
Move-in ready and full of recent updates, this 1-bedroom (Could be 2 but a strange layout), 1-bath home sits on an approximately 1/4-acre double corner lot in McAlester. With around 800 square feet, the home offers a functional layout along with several major improvements completed within the past year.Recent updates include a new roof, all-new windows, a remodeled kitchen, an updated
Privacy, quality, and breathtaking views come together on this beautiful 2.5-acre property! Tucked away from the road, this move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the peaceful country lifestyle you've been searching for while still being conveniently located near McAlester Lake.Built by Sunshine Homes with exceptional craftsmanship inside and out, this home provides stunning views and a
Prime ±0.30 acre commercial corner lot located in the heart of McAlester. Positioned at a signalized intersection with strong visibility and steady daily traffic, this property offers excellent exposure for retail, office, service-based business, or redevelopment. The site is mostly level with existing concrete surface and dual street frontage, allowing for flexible layout and access options.
**Priced well below appraised value** Set on 4 beautiful acres, this custom-built modern farmhouse blends thoughtful design with high-end finishes to create a truly exceptional property—complete with a guest house for added flexibility. Step inside to a bright, open-concept layout filled with natural light and designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. The spacious living room
LOOK AT ME! RECENTLY REBUILT AND ALMOST NEW! Up to date with an open floor plan and lots of living space. Newer Kitchen with Stove, ventahood, fridge, and microwave. Main bedroom has one half bath and large closet.The smaller bedrooms are separated from the primary bedroom to the back of the house. the large main bath has been combined with the utility room. This home has been rebuilt from
Eight platted parcels totaling approximately 5.22 acres located inside McAlester city limits. The property is undeveloped with rolling terrain and heavy timber, and internal roads have not been constructed. City utilities, including water, electric, and sewer, are located in the surrounding neighborhood, and several parcels share boundaries with existing residential lots. Parcels are offered
STORM CELLAR AND GENERAC GENERATOR!! Boat landing few hundred yards away! GO FISH Escape to your own lake retreat with this charming 2-bedroom, 2 full bath manufactured home located in Crowder, just across the street and within easy walking distance to beautiful Lake Eufaula. Enjoy peaceful water views and the relaxed lifestyle this property offers. Perfect as a weekend getaway, full-time
**Priced well below appraised value** Set on 4 beautiful acres, this custom-built modern farmhouse blends thoughtful design with high-end finishes to create a truly exceptional property—complete with a guest house for added flexibility.Step inside to a bright, open-concept layout filled with natural light and designed for both everyday living and effortless entertaining. The spacious
The Historic J.J. McAlester Mansion. Built by J.J. McAlester, the founder of the City of McAlester, and completed in 1900, this iconic Victorian residence beautifully blends historic character with thoughtful modern updates. From its timeless architecture, distinctive upper-level widow's walk, and original craftsmanship to its inviting living spaces, this home offers a rare opportunity to own one
150 acres of densely wooded, primarily flat land offering privacy and potential. This tract is covered in mature timber with excellent wildlife habitat, making it ideal for hunting, recreation, or building a secluded getaway. The flat topography provides flexibility for trails, food plots, cabin sites, or long-term homestead plans. A rare chance to own a large, untouched parcel with room to
Four platted parcels totaling approximately 6.47 acres located inside McAlester city limits. The property is undeveloped with natural rolling terrain and timber, and internal roads have not yet been established. City utilities, including water, electric, and sewer, are located in the surrounding neighborhood, and several parcels share boundaries with existing residential lots. Parcels are offered
Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can
Property Id: 2842939 Welcome to your new home at 2028 N. 12th Street in McAlester, OK! This completely renovated single-family property boasts 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an attached garage. It sits on a large fenced lot in a quiet neighborhood. Features: All new •Dishwasher, range, refrigerator, microwave, garbage disposal, washer & dryer •Granite countertops •One car garage &
Property Id: 2482050 Completely remodeled, this beautifully updated home offers modern comfort, quality craftsmanship, and peace of mind with nearly every major system upgraded. Located on a tree-lined street in South McAlester, this property blends timeless style with today’s most desired features. Extensive renovations include a new roof with ice and water shield, new board and batten
Property Id: 2482178 This charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath home located in South McAlester checks all the boxes. Open living, dining, kitchen, 1 car garage and a laundry room. Mature landscape with a covered back patio and outdoor storage shed. Just updated with new flooring, paint and other amenities through the home. Opportunity to Lease with Option to own the home. Call for more
Single story 2 Bedroom 2 Full Bath unit with one bath in the primary suite. Fully remodeled unit. Located near the best elementary schools and conveniently located with quick access to local shopping and restaurants. Water Included. Tenant will pay electric. Deposit $70012 month lease. Non-SmokingNo Pets
2 bedroom, 1.5 Bath unit with fireplace, vaulted ceilings in the living/dining area, tile floors with carpet in the bedrooms & living room, walk in closet in the primary. Ceiling fans in living and bedrooms. Large half bath. Non Smoking. No Pets. New carpet, paint, bathroom vanities and stove.Water paid/included. Tenant will pay electric.12 month lease/ $700 deposit
Hardy Springs Apartments offers a quiet and comfortable community with only 4 units per single story building. This unit has vaulted ceilings, wood burning fireplace, ceiling fans, luxury tile throughout and a large walk-in closet in the primary bedroom.Rent $900/MonthWater paid by owner.Only electric needed$700 Security Deposit12 month lease.
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