Poteau, OK demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,959
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,511/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,707
2.3% year-over-year change

Poteau population

How many people live in Poteau

Poteau is home to 8,959 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Poteau locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
8,959
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
4,288
Female
52.1%
4,671
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,288 47.9% -2.3%
Female 4,671 52.1% 3.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Poteau is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 22.7% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.9% of the population, while another 21% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
36
Age breakdown
Under 15
22.7%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
26.9%
45 to 64
21%
Over 65
16.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,036 22.7% 1.1%
15 to 24 1,182 13.2% -12.8%
25 to 44 2,411 26.9% 1.0%
45 to 64 1,879 21% 6.6%
Over 65 1,451 16.2% 4.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Poteau, 91.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. Another 9.3% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 11.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.7%
Non-citizens
6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,180 91.3% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 241 2.7% -12.4%
Non-citizens 538 6% -7.4%
Racial breakdown
White
69.6%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
9.3%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
11.5%
Other
7%
Value Percent
White 6,231 69.6%
Black or African American 114 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 830 9.3%
Asian 101 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 22 0.2%
Two or more races 1,032 11.5%
Other 629 7%

Households in Poteau

A peek inside Poteau households

Poteau has 3,286 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 61.2% are families, while the remaining 38.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,286
4.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,276
Family households
2,010
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,276 38.8% 11.2%
Family households 2,010 61.2% 0.9%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Poteau

The housing landscape of Poteau

Poteau's housing consists of 3,707 units, with 77.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,707
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,869 77.4%
1 unit, attached 36 1%
2 units 39 1%
3 or 4 units 89 2.4%
5 to 9 units 158 4.3%
10 to 19 units 114 3.1%
20 to 49 units 93 2.5%
50 or more units 13 0.4%
Mobile home 296 8%
Homes built since 2020
43
437.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Poteau

In Poteau, the median construction year is 1979. About 8.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 311 8.4% 5.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 184 5% 0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 222 6% 21.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 519 14% -6.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 708 19.1% -6.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 536 14.5% 7.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 478 12.9% 17.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 244 6.6% -3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 462 12.5% -4.9%
Built in 2020 or later 43 1.2% 437.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Poteau occupancy rates

Out of the 3,286 occupied housing units in Poteau, 62.3% are owner-occupied, while 37.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,286
4.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,239
Owner occupied
2,047
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,239 37.7% 1.7%
Owner occupied 2,047 62.3% 6.5%
Unoccupied housing units
11.4%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Poteau housing costs

Housing costs in Poteau come to a median of $820 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $853.

Median housing costs per month
$820/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Poteau
$853/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Poteau

Poteau education at a glance

About 43.5% of the population in Poteau went to high school, while 22% pursued college studies. Another 12.3% earned an associate degree and 10.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 457 7% -2.8%
High school diploma 2,834 43.5% -9.2%
College diploma 1,434 22% 4.4%
Associate degree 798 12.3% 33.9%
Bachelor's degree 670 10.3% 8.2%
Graduate degree 316 4.8% 0.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Poteau

How much people earn in Poteau

The average annual household income in Poteau was $62,468 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,511, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Poteau
$62,468/year
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Poteau
$50,511/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Poteau income by age

In Poteau, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,115. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,205 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,813, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,552 in earnings. Overall, 80.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,813 5.2%
25 - 44 $53,115 -5.7%
45 - 64 $51,205 -0.6%
Over 65 $42,552 18.4%
Above poverty level
6,721
Below poverty level
1,647
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,721 80.3% 0.7%
Below poverty level 1,647 19.7% -1.7%

Average renter income in Poteau

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Poteau, their median household income was $37,692 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,692
Rent-to-income ratio
27.2%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Poteau

Workforce and job types in Poteau

The job market in Poteau is powered by 3,224 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 62.1% are employed by private companies, and 18.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,224
-3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,008
Blue collar
1,216
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,008 62.3% -5.5%
Blue collar 1,216 37.7% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
62.1%
Governmental workers
18.9%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 349 10.8% -2.8%
Private companies 2,003 62.1% -7.7%
Governmental workers 608 18.9% 4.5%
Not for profit companies 264 8.2% 25.1%
Unemployment rate
6.1%
-3.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Poteau stands at 6.1%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Poteau

How people get around in Poteau

In Poteau, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-7.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,980 92% -2.9%
Bicycle 22 0.7% -12.0%
Walk 58 1.8% 20.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Poteau by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
74953 12,406 4,430 $56,341 $72,698

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FAQs about Poteau demographics 

What is the total population of Poteau?

Poteau has a total population of 8,959 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Poteau?

The gender ratio in Poteau is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (4,288 residents)
  • 52.1% females (4,671 residents)

What is the median age in Poteau?

The median age in Poteau is 36.

What is the age distribution of the population in Poteau?

The age distribution in Poteau is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22.7% (2,036 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (1,182 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.9% (2,411 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21% (1,879 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.2% (1,451 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Poteau?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Poteau is as follows:
  • White: 69.6% (6,231 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (114 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 9.3% (830 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (101 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (22 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.5% (1,032 residents)
  • Other: 7% (629 residents)

What percentage of the population in Poteau are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.3% of the population in Poteau.

How many housing units are there in Poteau?

There are 3,707 housing units in Poteau, reflecting a +2.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Poteau and what is the average household size?

Poteau has a total of 3,286 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Poteau?

Poteau has a median household income of $50,511, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Poteau?

The employment rate is 93.9% in Poteau, with a workforce of 3,224 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.3% (2,008 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.7% (1,216 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (349 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.1% (2,003 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.9% (608 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (264 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025