Oil City, PA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,468
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,316/yr
-2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,603
-1.2% year-over-year change

Oil City population

How many people live in Oil City

Oil City is home to 9,468 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.1% of Oil City locals are male, and 48.9% are female.

Total population
9,468
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.1%
4,840
Female
48.9%
4,628
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,840 51.1% 2.4%
Female 4,628 48.9% -3.4%
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 Oil City is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.1% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.7% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.1%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
23.7%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,711 18.1% 10.2%
15 to 24 1,272 13.4% -3.1%
25 to 44 2,242 23.7% -3.4%
45 to 64 2,399 25.3% -3.7%
Over 65 1,844 19.5% 0.3%
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 Oil City, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 94.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.7% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,300 98.2% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 75 0.8% 27.1%
Non-citizens 93 1% 36.8%
Racial breakdown
White
94.1%
Black or African American
0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.9%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 8,913 94.1%
Black or African American 68 0.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12 0.1%
Asian 83 0.9%
Two or more races 368 3.9%
Other 24 0.2%

Households in Oil City

A peek inside Oil City households

Oil City has 3,908 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.4% are families, while the remaining 37.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,908
-2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,470
Family households
2,438
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,470 37.6% -13.9%
Family households 2,438 62.4% 6.8%
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 Oil City

The housing landscape of Oil City

Oil City's housing consists of 4,603 units, with 73.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,603
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,400 73.9%
1 unit, attached 40 0.9%
2 units 583 12.7%
3 or 4 units 179 3.9%
5 to 9 units 164 3.6%
10 to 19 units 37 0.8%
20 to 49 units 138 3%
50 or more units 50 1.1%
Mobile home 12 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
27
58.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oil City

In Oil City, the median construction year is 1938. About 58.6% 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, 1.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 1.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,697 58.6% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 231 5% -17.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 518 11.2% -1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 238 5.2% -14.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 402 8.7% -10.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 243 5.3% 131.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 87 1.9% 22.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 86 1.9% 8.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 74 1.6% -24.5%
Built in 2020 or later 27 0.6% 58.8%
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.

Oil City occupancy rates

Out of the 3,908 occupied housing units in Oil City, 61.3% are owner-occupied, while 38.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,908
-2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,514
Owner occupied
2,394
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,514 38.7% -1.7%
Owner occupied 2,394 61.3% -2.2%
Unoccupied housing units
15.1%
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.

Oil City housing costs

Housing costs in Oil City come to a median of $680 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $821.

Median housing costs per month
$680/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 Oil City
$821/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 Oil City

Oil City education at a glance

About 55.8% of the population in Oil City went to high school, while 14.5% pursued college studies. Another 11.5% earned an associate degree and 10% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 188 2.6% -15.7%
High school diploma 4,074 55.8% -4.6%
College diploma 1,061 14.5% 8.4%
Associate degree 842 11.5% 6.2%
Bachelor's degree 729 10% -3.7%
Graduate degree 409 5.6% -8.9%
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 Oil City

How much people earn in Oil City

The average annual household income in Oil City was $67,934 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -6.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,316, reflecting a -2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oil City
$67,934/year
-6.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oil City
$51,316/year
-2.6% year-over-year change

Oil City income by age

In Oil City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,500 overall. Overall, 83.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $53,250 -15.7%
45 - 64 $61,500 5.9%
Over 65 $44,911 -5.7%
Above poverty level
7,534
Below poverty level
1,500
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,534 83.4% 1.1%
Below poverty level 1,500 16.6% -7.5%

Employment in Oil City

Workforce and job types in Oil City

The job market in Oil City is powered by 4,311 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 65.4% are employed by private companies, and 12% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,311
2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
2,908
Blue collar
1,403
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,908 67.5% 2.3%
Blue collar 1,403 32.5% 3.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
65.4%
Governmental workers
12%
Not for profit companies
14.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 349 8.1% -0.6%
Private companies 2,820 65.4% 6.2%
Governmental workers 518 12% -10.4%
Not for profit companies 624 14.5% 2.0%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
-23.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oil City stands at 5.1%, 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 Oil City

How people get around in Oil City

Commuting methods vary: 91.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,870 91.4% 4.0%
Bus or trolleybus 18 0.4% -10.0%
Walk 123 2.9% -15.8%
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 Oil City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
16301 15,233 6,350 $57,596 $71,406

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FAQs about Oil City demographics 

What is the total population of Oil City?

Oil City has a total population of 9,468 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Oil City?

The gender ratio in Oil City is as follows:
  • 51.1% males (4,840 residents)
  • 48.9% females (4,628 residents)

What is the median age in Oil City?

The median age in Oil City is 40.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Oil City?

The age distribution in Oil City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.1% (1,711 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (1,272 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.7% (2,242 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (2,399 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (1,844 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oil City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oil City is as follows:
  • White: 94.1% (8,913 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.7% (68 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (12 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (83 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.9% (368 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (24 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Oil City.

How many housing units are there in Oil City?

There are 4,603 housing units in Oil City, reflecting a -1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Oil City has a total of 3,908 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oil City?

Oil City has a median household income of $51,316, representing a -2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Oil City?

The employment rate is 94.9% in Oil City, with a workforce of 4,311 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.5% (2,908 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.5% (1,403 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (349 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.4% (2,820 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12% (518 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 14.5% (624 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