Poteau, OK
Population 8,903 · Oklahoma
About Poteau, OK
Poteau is a small town located in Oklahoma with a population of 8,903 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,789 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Poteau features a median home value of $142,400, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Poteau one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $818, 30% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,625 total housing units, 61% are owner-occupied (1,922 units) and 39% are renter-occupied (1,218 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Poteau shows an unemployment rate of 6.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Poteau have an average one-way commute time of 23 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.9% of Poteau 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 14.9% White, 15.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 8.8% of the population being foreign-born.
How Poteau Ranks in Oklahoma
Cost of Living in Poteau, OK
Compared to national averages, Poteau has a median household income of $49,789 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $142,400, which is 42% below the national median. Monthly rent at $818 is 30% below the US average of $1,163. Within Oklahoma, Poteau's income is 12% below the state average of $56,382, and home values are 19% above the state median of $119,992.
Why Live in Poteau, OK?
Poteau offers affordable housing with a median home value of $142,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $818/month, and short commute times averaging just 23 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,789) that falls below the national average. However, Poteau’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Poteau has a population of 8,903 with a median age of 34.8 years. Compare Poteau with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Oklahoma.
Similar Cities Near Poteau
Cities in Oklahoma with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sallisaw | 8,553 | $47,333 | $123,500 | Compare |
| Skiatook | 8,553 | $55,444 | $168,600 | Compare |
| Blanchard | 9,276 | $89,472 | $259,100 | Compare |
| Collinsville | 8,468 | $88,537 | $207,100 | Compare |
| Clinton | 8,461 | $58,417 | $112,500 | Compare |
| Cushing | 8,336 | $44,282 | $112,100 | Compare |
| The Village | 9,470 | $70,788 | $190,600 | Compare |
| Pryor Creek | 9,520 | $42,500 | $146,200 | 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 Poteau With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Poteau
What is the population of Poteau, OK?
The population of Poteau, OK is 8,903 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 Poteau?
The median household income in Poteau, OK is $49,789 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Poteau?
The median home value in Poteau, OK is $142,400, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Poteau?
The median monthly rent in Poteau, OK is $818, which is 30% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Poteau?
The unemployment rate in Poteau, OK is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Poteau, OK a good place to live?
Poteau offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,903 and a median age of 34.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Poteau, OK?
15.9% of residents in Poteau 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 Poteau?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Poteau, OK: median home value is $142,400 (42% below national), median rent is $818/month, and median household income is $49,789. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Poteau?
The poverty rate in Poteau, OK is 20.3%, 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 Poteau, OK?
Poteau's population is 14.9% White, 15.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 1.5% two or more races. 8.8% of residents are foreign-born.