- Altus is a city located in Jackson County, Oklahoma, United States. It is the county seat and has a population of approximately 19,813 people as of 2020. Altus is known for its close proximity to Altus Air Force Base, which is a major training center for the United States Air Force. The city has a strong military presence and a significant portion of its economy is dependent on the base. Altus offers a variety of recreational activities, including parks, golf courses, and a local reservoir for fishing and boating. The city also has several educational institutions, including a community college and a public school district.