There are about 8,800 residents in Poteau, the county seat of LeFlore County. “I think what draws a lot of people to southeastern Oklahoma is our mountains, lakes and streams,” says Debra Gentry, Realtor with Re/Max Champion Land Brokers. Besides an abundance of nature, the city also features a historic downtown that includes the last bank that Bonnie and Clyde successfully robbed. Fort Smith, Arkansas, is about 35 miles away, while Tulsa is about 130 miles.
The Chocktaw Nation of Oklahoma, which has roots in Poteau, is one of the city’s largest employers because of its health facilities, such as the Poteau Wellness Center. Others include OK Foods and Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center.
Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty that Poteau, Oklahoma, provides.
Poteau, Oklahoma, invites you to experience a blend of history and outdoor adventure.
1/2
Homes in Poteau significantly below national median
The median housing price in Poteau is $225,000, significantly below the national median. “We’ve gotten a lot of people that have come because of the lower taxes – and the beauty of our area,” Gentry says. Older homes are clustered in the city’s heart, including bungalows, cottages and ranch styles dating to the 1940s. New traditional houses built between the 1980s and 2020s are also typical. Plenty of undeveloped land is available, starting at about $15,000 for half an acre.
There are a variety of unique homes in Poteau for buyers to choose from.
Many of the homes in Poteau have plenty of yard space for residents.
1/2
Largest hill in the world
Nature surrounds Poteau, including Ouachita National Forest and Lake Wister State Park. People can boat, kayak and water ski across the 7,300 acres of Lake Wister, and kids can splash through the spray park. But that is far from the biggest outdoor attraction – literally. “We have the largest hill in the world,” Gentry says. Cavanal Hill measures 1,999 feet, one foot less than the criteria for a mountain. There are a handful of parks in the city as well. Twyman Park includes a jungle gym, tennis courts and a pool during the summer. Choctaw Country Club’s nine-hole course is one of two golf courses in the city.
The city of Poteau can be seen from the top of Cavanal Hill.
Cavanal Hill in Poteau is the named the "Worlds Largest Hill".
1/2
Poteau schools serve the area
Poteau Independent School District receives an A-minus from Niche. It has five schools and a total population of about 2,400. Carl Albert State College’s main campus is a community college that offers eight degrees and three certificate programs. The Poteau campus includes dorms and recreation that mirror student life at a traditional four-year institution.
The schools in Poteau are embedded in the community for easy access.
Discover Poteau, Oklahoma, a city where history meets scenic landscapes.
1/2
Shops and restaurants along U.S. Route 59
Downtown Poteau is at the heart of the city, with local businesses and restaurants like Warehouse Willy’s, which was awarded the Golden Fork Award in 2000 for the best steaks in the county. The LeFlore County Museum is just across the street from Willy’s, at the former Hotel Lowry. There are over 25 rooms of exhibits detailing the area’s history, ranging from the Native American tribes who once lived in the city to when President John F. Kennedy visited. More eateries, including fast-food restaurants like McDonald’s, a Harps Food Store and Walmart Supercenter, are along U.S. Route 59. Downtown Fort Smith has more shops and restaurants about 35 miles away.
The beautiful landscapes of Poteau, Oklahoma, will leave you in awe.
Poteau, Oklahoma, is a small town with a big heart and plenty to offer.
1/2
Poteau Balloon Fest every October
The city hosts several events throughout the year, the most notable being the Poteau Balloon Fest. Every October, hot air balloons fill the sky, some for show and some offering tethered rides and views of the fall foliage. Patrons can also explore the local vendors selling their art, play games and watch a BMX stunt show.
Fort Smith, AR is about 35 miles away
U.S. Route 59 runs through Poteau, intersecting with U.S. Route 271 and leading about 35 miles to Fort Smith. Most residents get around by car, although the Kibois Area Transit System offers curb-to-curb rides for people without reliable transportation. The nearest airport is Fort Smith Regional Airport, about 35 miles away.
Neighbor city of Fort Smith offers many exciting boutiques for the residents of Poteau to visit.
Many of the Parks in Fort Smith are clustered together for easy walking.
1/2
Prone to long summers and tornadoes
Poteau residents can expect long, humid summers, with temperatures picking up in late April and cooling off in early October. “Our winters are pretty mild,” Gentry says. The area is prone to tornadoes.
According to the FBI, instances of violent crime in Poteau decreased by 39% from 2022 to 2023, while property crime increased by 2%.
Written By
Zia Sampson
Photography Contributed By
Justin Prokop
Video By
Victoria Sharpe
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Brian Minks,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Poteau, OK sell after 70 days on the market compared to the national average of 49 days. The median sale price for homes in Poteau, OK over the last 12 months is $240,000, up 24% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover the potential of this 3 bedroom and 1 bathroom home in Parkdale Subdivision. This property has a master bedroom and an outside sun patio. Selling "as-is", due to fire destruction. The metal roof was installed 6 months ago but still needs some work. Also brand new electric lines installed throughout the whole house. This property presents a unique opportunity for both investors and DIY
This home is everything you've been waiting for, its four-bedroom, two full bath, sunroom, large kitchen area with granite countertops great for entertaining, two car garage, huge front yard, covered patio overlooking your beautiful pond sitting on 10 acres with wildlife. Property is located in the very sought after ABM addition, just a couple miles from Wal-Mart and your favorite
Hideaway Town LOTS, Yes two Secluded building lots at the end of the road, about a half acre property, located just south of Bill J. Barber City Park. One way in and one way out. This property offers a private country feel providing peace and privacy while still being convenient to Poteau and a short drive to local town amenities. This land is perfect to build your ideal South facing home with a
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
