Tahlequah, OK demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,935
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,581/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,600
1.3% year-over-year change

Tahlequah population

How many people live in Tahlequah

Tahlequah is home to 16,935 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.8% of Tahlequah locals are male, and 53.2% are female.

Total population
16,935
2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.8%
7,934
Female
53.2%
9,001
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,934 46.8% 3.0%
Female 9,001 53.2% 2.2%
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 Tahlequah is 29, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 26.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.6% of the population, while another 15.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
29.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
26.4%
25 to 44
25.6%
45 to 64
15.2%
Over 65
15.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,850 16.8% 5.2%
15 to 24 4,475 26.4% 4.9%
25 to 44 4,332 25.6% 1.9%
45 to 64 2,581 15.2% -3.4%
Over 65 2,697 15.9% 3.2%
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 Tahlequah, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 46.4% of locals are Caucasian, 2.4% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 15.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
3.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,184 95.6% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 158 0.9% 2.6%
Non-citizens 593 3.5% 24.1%
Racial breakdown
White
46.4%
Black or African American
2.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
31%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
15.9%
Other
3.5%
Value Percent
White 7,849 46.4%
Black or African American 404 2.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5,255 31%
Asian 151 0.9%
Two or more races 2,690 15.9%
Other 586 3.5%

Households in Tahlequah

A peek inside Tahlequah households

Tahlequah has 6,795 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.9% are families, while the remaining 48.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,795
2.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,266
Family households
3,529
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,266 48.1% 3.5%
Family households 3,529 51.9% 2.2%
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 Tahlequah

The housing landscape of Tahlequah

Tahlequah's housing consists of 7,600 units, with 54.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.7% 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 7.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,600
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,143 54.5%
1 unit, attached 207 2.7%
2 units 568 7.5%
3 or 4 units 421 5.5%
5 to 9 units 765 10.1%
10 to 19 units 381 5%
20 to 49 units 399 5.2%
50 or more units 177 2.3%
Mobile home 539 7.1%
Homes built since 2020
97
203.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Tahlequah

In Tahlequah, the median construction year is 1988. About 5.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 389 5.1% 1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 72 1% -62.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 429 5.6% 8.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 819 10.8% 6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,267 16.7% -7.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,040 13.7% 16.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,282 16.9% -3.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,307 17.2% -2.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 898 11.8% 13.1%
Built in 2020 or later 97 1.3% 203.1%
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.

Tahlequah occupancy rates

Out of the 6,795 occupied housing units in Tahlequah, 40.2% are owner-occupied, while 59.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,795
2.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,063
Owner occupied
2,732
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,063 59.8% 4.6%
Owner occupied 2,732 40.2% 0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
10.6%
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.

Tahlequah housing costs

Housing costs in Tahlequah come to a median of $856 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $835.

Median housing costs per month
$856/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 Tahlequah
$835/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 Tahlequah

Tahlequah education at a glance

About 34.3% of the population in Tahlequah went to high school, while 30.4% pursued college studies. Another 5.2% earned an associate degree and 17.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 481 3.6% 42.3%
High school diploma 4,651 34.3% 12.3%
College diploma 4,123 30.4% -8.4%
Associate degree 698 5.2% 6.4%
Bachelor's degree 2,331 17.2% 3.5%
Graduate degree 1,263 9.3% -6.4%
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 Tahlequah

How much people earn in Tahlequah

The average annual household income in Tahlequah was $69,826 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -5.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,581, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Tahlequah
$69,826/year
-5.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Tahlequah
$49,581/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Tahlequah income by age

In Tahlequah, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,131. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,204 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $34,565 in earnings. Overall, 81.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,250 0.9%
25 - 44 $61,131 6.3%
45 - 64 $67,204 8.3%
Over 65 $34,565 -5.7%
Above poverty level
12,493
Below poverty level
2,827
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,493 81.6% 5.9%
Below poverty level 2,827 18.4% -6.5%

Average renter income in Tahlequah

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Tahlequah, their median household income was $32,711 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,711
Rent-to-income ratio
30.6%
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 Tahlequah

Workforce and job types in Tahlequah

The job market in Tahlequah is powered by 8,228 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.9% run their own businesses, 55.1% are employed by private companies, and 27.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,228
6.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,975
Blue collar
1,253
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,975 84.8% 8.1%
Blue collar 1,253 15.2% -3.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.9%
Private companies
55.1%
Governmental workers
27.7%
Not for profit companies
7.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 815 9.9% -1.9%
Private companies 4,537 55.1% 7.4%
Governmental workers 2,281 27.7% 4.8%
Not for profit companies 595 7.2% 13.6%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Tahlequah stands at 6.3%, 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 Tahlequah

How people get around in Tahlequah

In Tahlequah, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,980 85.6% 3.4%
Bus or trolleybus 56 0.7% 522.2%
Motorcycle 24 0.3% -7.7%
Bicycle 6 0.1% -33.3%
Walk 409 5% -2.4%
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 Tahlequah by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
74464 31,116 12,035 $51,262 $70,919

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FAQs about Tahlequah demographics 

What is the total population of Tahlequah?

Tahlequah has a total population of 16,935 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 +2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Tahlequah?

The gender ratio in Tahlequah is as follows:
  • 46.8% males (7,934 residents)
  • 53.2% females (9,001 residents)

What is the median age in Tahlequah?

The median age in Tahlequah is 29.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Tahlequah?

The age distribution in Tahlequah is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (2,850 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 26.4% (4,475 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.6% (4,332 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 15.2% (2,581 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.9% (2,697 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Tahlequah?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Tahlequah is as follows:
  • White: 46.4% (7,849 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.4% (404 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 31% (5,255 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (151 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 15.9% (2,690 residents)
  • Other: 3.5% (586 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Tahlequah.

How many housing units are there in Tahlequah?

There are 7,600 housing units in Tahlequah, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Tahlequah has a total of 6,795 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Tahlequah?

Tahlequah has a median household income of $49,581, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Tahlequah, with a workforce of 8,228 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.8% (6,975 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.2% (1,253 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.9% (815 residents)
  • Private companies: 55.1% (4,537 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.7% (2,281 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.2% (595 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