Oak Harbor, WA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
24,362
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,084/yr
5.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,693
1.4% year-over-year change

Oak Harbor population

How many people live in Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor is home to 24,362 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.4% of Oak Harbor locals are male, and 51.6% are female.

Total population
24,362
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.4%
11,795
Female
51.6%
12,567
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,795 48.4% -0.1%
Female 12,567 51.6% -0.1%
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 Oak Harbor is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.1% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 36.9% of the population, while another 14.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.1%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
36.9%
45 to 64
14.5%
Over 65
12.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,630 23.1% -2.5%
15 to 24 3,086 12.7% 1.1%
25 to 44 8,998 36.9% 2.5%
45 to 64 3,530 14.5% -4.4%
Over 65 3,118 12.8% 0.6%
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 Oak Harbor, 86.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65.4% of locals are Caucasian, 4.2% are African American and 9.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.8% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.4%
Non-citizens
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,030 86.3% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,295 9.4% 3.4%
Non-citizens 1,037 4.3% 2.0%
Racial breakdown
White
65.4%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.8%
Asian
9.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
16.8%
Other
3%
Value Percent
White 15,944 65.4%
Black or African American 1,022 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 204 0.8%
Asian 2,322 9.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 55 0.2%
Two or more races 4,097 16.8%
Other 718 3%

Households in Oak Harbor

A peek inside Oak Harbor households

Oak Harbor has 9,774 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.6% are families, while the remaining 32.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,774
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,170
Family households
6,604
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,170 32.4% -1.2%
Family households 6,604 67.6% 1.3%
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 Oak Harbor

The housing landscape of Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor's housing consists of 10,693 units, with 51.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.6% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,693
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,501 51.4%
1 unit, attached 812 7.6%
2 units 850 8%
3 or 4 units 930 8.7%
5 to 9 units 849 7.9%
10 to 19 units 744 7%
20 to 49 units 416 3.9%
50 or more units 94 0.9%
Mobile home 497 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
86
3.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Oak Harbor

In Oak Harbor, the median construction year is 1990. About 1.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 137 1.3% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 98 0.9% 28.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,008 9.4% 2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 988 9.2% -16.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,424 13.3% 10.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,657 15.5% 5.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,106 19.7% -3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,100 19.6% 7.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,089 10.2% 0.5%
Built in 2020 or later 86 0.8% 3.6%
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.

Oak Harbor occupancy rates

Out of the 9,774 occupied housing units in Oak Harbor, 46.7% are owner-occupied, while 53.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,774
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,207
Owner occupied
4,567
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,207 53.3% -0.6%
Owner occupied 4,567 46.7% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.6%
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.

Oak Harbor housing costs

Housing costs in Oak Harbor come to a median of $1,673 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,645.

Median housing costs per month
$1,673/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 Oak Harbor
$1,645/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 Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor education at a glance

About 29.8% of the population in Oak Harbor went to high school, while 29.8% pursued college studies. Another 12.5% earned an associate degree and 17.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 371 2.1% -7.0%
High school diploma 5,328 29.8% 2.0%
College diploma 5,331 29.8% 1.3%
Associate degree 2,228 12.5% -8.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,082 17.2% 7.7%
Graduate degree 1,537 8.6% -2.8%
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 Oak Harbor

How much people earn in Oak Harbor

The average annual household income in Oak Harbor was $97,382 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,084, reflecting a +5.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Oak Harbor
$97,382/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Oak Harbor
$76,084/year
5.6% year-over-year change

Oak Harbor income by age

In Oak Harbor, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $76,810. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $112,838 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $72,861, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $64,057 in earnings. Overall, 91.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $72,861 14.6%
25 - 44 $76,810 1.6%
45 - 64 $112,838 4.5%
Over 65 $64,057 3.6%
Above poverty level
21,934
Below poverty level
1,955
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,934 91.8% 0.3%
Below poverty level 1,955 8.2% -0.9%

Average renter income in Oak Harbor

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Oak Harbor, their median household income was $56,927 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$56,927
Rent-to-income ratio
34.7%
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 Oak Harbor

Workforce and job types in Oak Harbor

The job market in Oak Harbor is powered by 8,351 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.7% run their own businesses, 60.2% are employed by private companies, and 27.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,351
-1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,344
Blue collar
2,007
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,344 76% 1.3%
Blue collar 2,007 24% -10.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.7%
Private companies
60.2%
Governmental workers
27.2%
Not for profit companies
4.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 644 7.7% -14.9%
Private companies 5,027 60.2% 0.7%
Governmental workers 2,272 27.2% -2.2%
Not for profit companies 408 4.9% -4.2%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
-15.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Oak Harbor stands at 5.4%, 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 Oak Harbor

How people get around in Oak Harbor

Commuting methods vary: 90% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,517 90% 1.2%
Bus or trolleybus 87 0.7% 248.0%
Ferryboat 15 0.1% -66.7%
Motorcycle 18 0.2% -68.4%
Bicycle 45 0.4% 400.0%
Walk 212 1.8% -20.3%
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 Oak Harbor by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
98277 40,917 16,142 $83,253 $102,967
98278 1,932 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Oak Harbor demographics 

What is the total population of Oak Harbor?

Oak Harbor has a total population of 24,362 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Oak Harbor?

The gender ratio in Oak Harbor is as follows:
  • 48.4% males (11,795 residents)
  • 51.6% females (12,567 residents)

What is the median age in Oak Harbor?

The median age in Oak Harbor is 31.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Oak Harbor?

The age distribution in Oak Harbor is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.1% (5,630 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (3,086 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 36.9% (8,998 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 14.5% (3,530 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.8% (3,118 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oak Harbor?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Oak Harbor is as follows:
  • White: 65.4% (15,944 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (1,022 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.8% (204 residents)
  • Asian: 9.5% (2,322 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (55 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.8% (4,097 residents)
  • Other: 3% (718 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.3% of the population in Oak Harbor.

How many housing units are there in Oak Harbor?

There are 10,693 housing units in Oak Harbor, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Oak Harbor has a total of 9,774 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Oak Harbor?

Oak Harbor has a median household income of $76,084, representing a +5.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Oak Harbor?

The employment rate is 94.6% in Oak Harbor, with a workforce of 8,351 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76% (6,344 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24% (2,007 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.7% (644 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.2% (5,027 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.2% (2,272 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.9% (408 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