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Oklahoma Population Overview (2026 Projection)
Oklahoma is a state in the South Central region of the United States. It is bordered by Texas to the south and west, Kansas to the north, Missouri to the northeast, Arkansas to the east, New Mexico to the west, and Colorado to the northwest. The state sits at the crossroads of the South and the Great Plains.
Oklahoma ranks as the 28th most populous state in the United States and covers a total land area of 68,595 square miles (177,660 sq. km). With an average population density of about 55 people per square mile, Oklahoma is the 35th most densely populated state in the country.
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Oklahoma had a population of 3,959,353 (3.9 million). As of July 1, 2024, the estimated population is 4,095,393, or approximately 4.0 million, indicating continued moderate growth.
👉 Projected Population of Oklahoma (2026): ~4.15 million
Oklahoma Population Growth (2010–2020)
Oklahoma recorded a population growth rate of 5.5% between 2010 and 2020, adding approximately 208,002 residents during the decade. The state’s growth has been moderate, supported by natural population increase and steady in-migration.
The median age in Oklahoma is 36.3 years, making it slightly younger than the national average. Gender distribution remains nearly balanced, with 50.5% females and 49.5% males currently residing in the state.
Oklahoma Census Snapshot (2020)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 3,959,353 (3.9 million) |
| Percentage Change since 2010 | 5.5% |
| Population Rank | 28th |
| Total Land Area | 68,595 sq mi (177,660 km²) |
| Area Rank | 20th |
| Population Density | 55.20 per sq mi (21.30 per km²) |
| Capital City | Oklahoma City |
| Largest City | Oklahoma City |
Oklahoma Historical Population
Oklahoma has experienced steady long-term population growth since gaining statehood in the early 20th century. In 1910, the state’s population stood at approximately 0.8 million, increasing to nearly 4.0 million by 2020—a net gain of about 2.7 million people. While growth slowed and briefly declined during the mid-20th century, population expansion resumed in the later decades and has continued into the 21st century.
The table below outlines Oklahoma’s decennial population totals and percentage change from 1890 to 2020, highlighting periods of rapid early growth, mid-century decline, and modern stabilization.
Oklahoma Population by Decade
| Year | Population | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1890 | 258,657 | — |
| 1900 | 790,391 | 205.60% |
| 1910 | 1,657,155 | 109.70% |
| 1920 | 2,028,283 | 22.40% |
| 1930 | 2,396,040 | 18.10% |
| 1940 | 2,336,433 | −2.50% |
| 1950 | 2,233,513 | −4.40% |
| 1960 | 2,328,284 | 4.20% |
| 1970 | 2,559,229 | 9.90% |
| 1980 | 3,025,290 | 18.20% |
| 1990 | 3,145,585 | 4.00% |
| 2000 | 3,450,654 | 9.70% |
| 2010 | 3,751,675 | 8.70% |
| 2020 | 3,959,353 | 5.50% |
Oklahoma Demographics (Summary)
Religion and Affiliations
Christianity is the dominant religion in Oklahoma, with approximately 79% of the population identifying as Christian. Among Christian groups, Protestants account for about 69%, followed by Roman Catholics at 8% and Mormons at 1%. The religiously unaffiliated population makes up around 18% of residents, while other non-Christian religions together are followed by roughly 2% of Oklahoma’s population.
For more details, read: Religion in Oklahoma.
Race and Ethnicity
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, White (non-Hispanic) residents represent the largest racial or ethnic group in Oklahoma, comprising 60.80% of the total population. The Hispanic or Latino population is the second-largest group at 11.92%. Individuals identifying with two or more races make up 9.44% of the population. Oklahoma also has a significant American Indian and Alaska Native population at 7.88%, followed by Black or African American residents at 7.15%, and Asian residents at 2.26%.
Ancestry in Oklahoma
Based on census studies and population estimates, the five largest ancestry groups in Oklahoma are German, Irish, American, English, and Italian, reflecting the state’s diverse settlement history and Native heritage.
For more details, read: Race and Ethnicity in Oklahoma.
Top cities and Counties in Oklahoma
As of 2022, Oklahoma is divided into 77 counties. Oklahoma County is the most populous county in the state, with 787,958 residents, followed by Tulsa County, which has a population of 646,266. In terms of land area, Osage County is the largest county in Oklahoma, covering 2,251 square miles.
Oklahoma City is the most populous city in the state, with a population of approximately 0.67 million. It is followed by Tulsa (403,166) and Norman (125,762), highlighting the concentration of population in central and northeastern Oklahoma.
For more details, read: Cities and Counties in Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Oklahoma Demographics
1. What is the current population of Oklahoma?
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Oklahoma had a population of 3,959,353 (3.9 million). The 2024 estimate places the population at approximately 4.1 million, with continued moderate growth expected.
2. How fast is Oklahoma’s population growing?
Between 2010 and 2020, Oklahoma recorded a population growth rate of 5.5%, adding over 208,000 residents. Growth has been steady, driven by natural increase and domestic migration.
3. What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Oklahoma?
Oklahoma’s largest racial group is White (non-Hispanic) at 60.80%. Other significant groups include Hispanic or Latino (11.92%), Two or more races (9.44%), American Indian/Alaska Native (7.88%), Black or African American (7.15%), and Asian (2.26%).
4. What is the dominant religion in Oklahoma?
Christianity is the majority religion, with 79% of residents identifying as Christian. Protestants are the largest subgroup at 69%, while 18% of the population is unaffiliated with any religion.
5. What are the largest cities and counties in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma City is the largest city with 0.67 million residents, followed by Tulsa (403,166) and Norman (125,762). The most populous counties are Oklahoma County (787,958) and Tulsa County (646,266), while Osage County is the largest by land area (2,251 sq. mi.).
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