Nowata, OK
Population 3,522 · Oklahoma
About Nowata, OK
Nowata is a small town located in Oklahoma with a population of 3,522 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $39,853 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.6 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Nowata features a median home value of $84,200, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Nowata one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $729, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,725 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (855 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (561 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Nowata shows an unemployment rate of 9.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Nowata have an average one-way commute time of 25.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.8% of Nowata residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 3.5% White, 25.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 0.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Nowata, OK
Compared to national averages, Nowata has a median household income of $39,853 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $84,200, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $729 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Oklahoma, Nowata's income is 29% below the state average of $56,382, and home values are 30% below the state median of $119,992.
Why Live in Nowata, OK?
Nowata offers affordable housing with a median home value of $84,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $729/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($39,853) that falls below the national average. However, Nowata’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Nowata has a population of 3,522 with a median age of 38.6 years. Compare Nowata with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Oklahoma.
Similar Cities Near Nowata
Cities in Oklahoma with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roland | 3,527 | $50,563 | $130,300 | Compare |
| Elgin | 3,560 | $81,739 | $243,600 | Compare |
| Frederick | 3,460 | $45,459 | $67,100 | Compare |
| Dewey | 3,388 | $42,940 | $117,600 | Compare |
| Hobart | 3,378 | $28,906 | $63,500 | Compare |
| Stilwell | 3,740 | $32,738 | $99,800 | Compare |
| Hominy | 3,299 | $34,928 | $74,800 | Compare |
| Muldrow | 3,292 | $46,667 | $108,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Oklahoma
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Nowata With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Nowata
What is the population of Nowata, OK?
The population of Nowata, OK is 3,522 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Oklahoma.
What is the median household income in Nowata?
The median household income in Nowata, OK is $39,853 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Nowata?
The median home value in Nowata, OK is $84,200, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Nowata?
The median monthly rent in Nowata, OK is $729, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Nowata?
The unemployment rate in Nowata, OK is 9.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Nowata, OK a good place to live?
Nowata offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,522 and a median age of 38.6, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Nowata, OK?
12.8% of residents in Nowata aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Nowata?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Nowata, OK: median home value is $84,200 (66% below national), median rent is $729/month, and median household income is $39,853. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Nowata?
The poverty rate in Nowata, OK is 23.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Nowata, OK?
Nowata's population is 3.5% White, 25.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 3.0% two or more races. 0.6% of residents are foreign-born.