2025 Compare Cities Overview:
McAlester, OK vs Van Buren, AR

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Van Buren older or younger than people in McAlester?
- The Median Age in Van Buren is 0.3 years younger than in McAlester.

Are housing costs cheaper in Van Buren or McAlester?
- Van Buren housing costs are 28.0% more expensive than McAlester housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Van Buren or McAlester?
- The average commute for residents of Van Buren is 1.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of McAlester.

Things to do in McAlester?
McAlester, OK is a city located in Pittsburg County in southeastern Oklahoma. It has a population of around 18,000 people and is home to many historical sites such as the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant and the Choctaw Nation Capitol Building. The city also offers plenty of outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hunting, and boating on Lake Eufaula.

Things to do in Van Buren?
Van Buren is a town in Crawford County, Arkansas with a population of about 25,000 people. Located just east of Fort Smith, this historic town was once the second largest in the state and provided trade and transportation services to travelers along the Arkansas River. Van Buren offers numerous attractions such as Park Hill Park, Lake Fort Smith State Park and the Van Buren Historic District. It also boasts top-notch eateries like Emma Jean’s BBQ, shopping options at downtown stores and galleries, entertainment venues like King Opera House Theatre and more. From outdoor activities to historical tours and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in Van Buren.

 McAlester, OKVan Buren, ARUnited States
 Population  Unlock23,213329,725,481
 Median Income$44,890  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$135,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.3%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.94  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Mcalester    3 Reviews

Recently moved here from Texas and we’re loving it so far. It reminds us of old Georgetown, Tx, where we grew up. We love small, close knit towns and McAlester is just  More

   |    Reply

Having lived in McAlester in the early 50's, I find it interesting that the population of the City of McAlester is about the same as it was suring the 50's and the  More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

My family moved here last year when my husband got a job with an oil technology firm. The housing market is great here. You can find a nice house for an affordable  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Mcalester

Reviews for Van Buren    2 Reviews

We moved to Arkansas (and to Van Buren) 4 years ago from the metro Houston, Texas area. We were sick of the traffic and crime that comes with living in a large city.   More

   |    Reply

Over 18 years ago

I don't like Arkansas. It's pretty, but the pay sucks. Taxes are very high, and so are  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Van Buren


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.