Oklahoma Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)
How many counties are there in Oklahoma? As of 2024, there are a total of 77 counties in the state of Oklahoma. Among them, Beaver County is the oldest one (established in 1890) while Cotton County is the youngest (established in 1912). With population of 718,633, Oklahoma County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is Osage County (5,830 km²) and the smallest is Marshall County (961 km²).
Largest Counties in Oklahoma
1. Osage County
County Seat: Pawhuska
- Area: 2,304 square miles
- Population: 45,818 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 918
- Latitude: 36.6684° N
- Longitude: 96.3432° W
Location and History
Osage County is located in northeastern Oklahoma and is the largest county in the state by area. Established in 1907, the county is named after the Osage Nation, which was relocated to this region during the 19th century. The county has a rich history tied to the oil boom of the early 20th century, which brought wealth to the Osage people but also led to a tragic period of exploitation and violence, known as the Osage Murders. Today, the Osage Nation continues to be a significant presence in the county, both culturally and economically.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 60 and State Highway 99 are major roads that traverse Osage County, providing access to its rural and urban areas. The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, one of the largest protected tallgrass prairies in the world, is a significant landmark and offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s natural history. The county seat, Pawhuska, is home to the Osage Nation Museum, which chronicles the history and culture of the Osage people. Additionally, the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Pawhuska, known for its stunning stained-glass windows, is a historic landmark.
2. Texas County
County Seat: Guymon
- Area: 2,048 square miles
- Population: 19,983 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 580
- Latitude: 36.7394° N
- Longitude: 101.4811° W
Location and History
Texas County is located in the Oklahoma Panhandle, bordered by Kansas to the north, Texas to the south, and New Mexico to the west. The county was established in 1907 and named for its proximity to the state of Texas. The area has a history rooted in cattle ranching and agriculture, with the Dust Bowl of the 1930s having a profound impact on its development. Today, Texas County remains a major agricultural hub, particularly known for its cattle and grain production.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Routes 54, 64, and 412 intersect in Texas County, making Guymon a critical transportation hub in the Panhandle. The county is home to the Optima National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife and offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. Guymon hosts the annual Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo, one of the largest rodeos in the state, reflecting the county’s strong ties to its ranching heritage. Additionally, the historic No Man’s Land Museum in Goodwell offers insights into the unique history of the Oklahoma Panhandle.
3. Cimarron County
County Seat: Boise City
- Area: 1,841 square miles
- Population: 2,296 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 580
- Latitude: 36.7412° N
- Longitude: 102.5132° W
Location and History
Cimarron County is the westernmost county in Oklahoma, located in the Panhandle and bordered by four states: Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. Established in 1907, the county is named after the Cimarron River, which runs through the area. Cimarron County has a unique history as part of “No Man’s Land,” a region not officially claimed by any state or territory until Oklahoma statehood. The county’s history is closely tied to the Dust Bowl, which severely affected the area during the 1930s, leading to widespread migration.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Routes 56, 64, and 287 all pass through Cimarron County, with Boise City serving as a key junction. The Black Mesa, the highest point in Oklahoma at 4,973 feet, is located in Cimarron County and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The county is also home to the Cimarron Heritage Center, a museum in Boise City that explores the history and culture of the region, including its Dust Bowl heritage. The nearby Dinosaur Quarry offers a glimpse into the prehistoric past with its fossil remains.
4. Le Flore County
County Seat: Poteau
- Area: 1,606 square miles
- Population: 48,129 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 918, 539
- Latitude: 34.8794° N
- Longitude: 94.6537° W
Location and History
Le Flore County is located in southeastern Oklahoma, in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. Established in 1907, the county was named after the influential Le Flore family of the Choctaw Nation. The area has a rich Native American history, with the Choctaw people playing a significant role in the region’s development. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, timber, and mining, with the latter two industries taking advantage of the region’s abundant natural resources.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 59 and U.S. Route 271 are the main highways that pass through Le Flore County, providing access to its many natural attractions. The county is home to the Talimena Scenic Drive, a 54-mile stretch of highway that offers breathtaking views of the Ouachita Mountains, particularly during the fall foliage season. The Heavener Runestone Park, which features a mysterious stone inscribed with runic characters, is another significant landmark that draws visitors intrigued by its ancient origins. Additionally, Cavanal Hill, often touted as the “World’s Highest Hill,” offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5. McCurtain County
County Seat: Idabel
- Area: 1,902 square miles
- Population: 32,832 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 580
- Latitude: 33.8822° N
- Longitude: 94.6011° W
Location and History
McCurtain County is located in southeastern Oklahoma, bordering both Texas and Arkansas. The county was established in 1907 and named after Green McCurtain, a prominent Choctaw chief and statesman. McCurtain County has a rich cultural heritage, with strong ties to the Choctaw Nation. The area is known for its dense forests, rivers, and lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The county’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, timber, and, more recently, tourism.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 70 and U.S. Route 259 are the primary highways that provide access to McCurtain County. Beavers Bend State Park, located near Broken Bow, is one of the county’s most famous landmarks, offering a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The park is also home to the Forest Heritage Center, which explores the history of forestry in Oklahoma. Broken Bow Lake, a large reservoir surrounded by the Ouachita National Forest, is another significant recreational area. The Red Slough Wildlife Management Area is a notable birdwatching destination, attracting visitors from across the country.
6. Pushmataha County
County Seat: Antlers
- Area: 1,422 square miles
- Population: 11,453 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 580
- Latitude: 34.2249° N
- Longitude: 95.6206° W
Location and History
Pushmataha County is located in southeastern Oklahoma, in the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains. The county was established in 1907 and named after Chief Pushmataha, a respected leader of the Choctaw Nation. The area has a long history of Native American settlement, particularly by the Choctaw people, who were relocated to the region during the Trail of Tears. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, timber, and small-scale mining, with a focus on maintaining the natural beauty of the region.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 271 and State Highway 2 are major highways that pass through Pushmataha County, providing access to its rural and scenic areas. The Kiamichi Mountains, which dominate the landscape, are a significant landmark, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Clayton Lake State Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities, particularly fishing and boating. The Choctaw Nation Historical Museum in Tuskahoma provides insights into the history and culture of the Choctaw people, with exhibits that highlight their contributions to the region. The annual Antlers Deer Festival and Outdoor Show celebrates the county’s rich hunting traditions.
7. Choctaw County
County Seat: Hugo
- Area: 800 square miles
- Population: 14,204 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 580
- Latitude: 33.9853° N
- Longitude: 95.5260° W
Location and History
Choctaw County is located in southeastern Oklahoma, near the Red River, which forms the border with Texas. The county was established in 1907 and named after the Choctaw Nation, which has deep historical roots in the area. The Choctaw people were forcibly relocated to this region during the 1830s as part of the Trail of Tears. The county’s history is closely tied to the development of the railroads, with Hugo becoming an important transportation hub in the early 20th century. Today, agriculture, timber, and tourism are key components of the local economy.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 70 and U.S. Route 271 are the main highways that run through Choctaw County, connecting it to neighboring regions. Hugo Lake, a popular recreational area, offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities. The Frisco Depot Museum in Hugo provides a glimpse into the county’s railroad history and its significance as a transportation center. The Mount Olivet Cemetery in Hugo is the final resting place of several famous circus performers, as the town was once a wintering ground for traveling circuses. The annual Hugo PRCA Rodeo is a major event that draws visitors from across the state.
8. Beckham County
County Seat: Sayre
- Area: 904 square miles
- Population: 21,859 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 580
- Latitude: 35.2943° N
- Longitude: 99.6634° W
Location and History
Beckham County is located in western Oklahoma, near the Texas border. The county was established in 1907 and named after J.C.W. Beckham, a governor of Kentucky. The area has a rich history tied to the cattle ranching industry and the development of the oil and gas sector in the early 20th century. Beckham County was also a significant part of the Dust Bowl region during the 1930s, which led to widespread agricultural and economic challenges.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 66 are major highways that pass through Beckham County, providing critical east-west transportation routes. The historic Route 66 runs through the county seat of Sayre, which is home to several preserved landmarks from the heyday of the Mother Road, including the Beckham County Courthouse, which was featured in the classic film “The Grapes of Wrath.” The county is also home to the Black Kettle National Grassland, which offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the natural prairie landscape. The Sayre Municipal Park, with its vintage WPA-built structures, is another notable landmark.
9. Woodward County
County Seat: Woodward
- Area: 1,246 square miles
- Population: 20,211 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 580
- Latitude: 36.4336° N
- Longitude: 99.3979° W
Location and History
Woodward County is located in northwestern Oklahoma, part of the state’s Great Plains region. The county was established in 1893 following the Cherokee Outlet land opening. Named after the city of Woodward, which serves as the county seat, the county has a history tied to cattle ranching and, later, oil and gas exploration. Woodward County played a key role in the development of the state’s agriculture and energy sectors, contributing significantly to Oklahoma’s economy.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Routes 183 and 412 are the main highways that cross Woodward County, connecting it to other parts of Oklahoma and neighboring states. Boiling Springs State Park, located near Woodward, is a major landmark and one of Oklahoma’s original seven state parks, offering hiking, camping, and picnicking in a scenic setting. The Plains Indians and Pioneers Museum in Woodward provides a comprehensive look at the history and culture of the region, including exhibits on Native American heritage, pioneer life, and the cattle industry. The county is also known for its annual Woodward Elks Rodeo, one of the oldest rodeos in the state.
10. Grady County
County Seat: Chickasha
- Area: 1,105 square miles
- Population: 55,834 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 405
- Latitude: 35.0547° N
- Longitude: 97.9544° W
Location and History
Grady County is located in central Oklahoma, southwest of Oklahoma City. The county was established in 1907 and named after Henry W. Grady, a prominent journalist and orator from Georgia who advocated for the industrialization of the South. The area has a rich agricultural history, with cotton, wheat, and cattle being the primary products. Grady County also became a significant player in the oil and gas industry during the early 20th century, contributing to the state’s economic development.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 44 and U.S. Route 81 are major highways that run through Grady County, providing easy access to both Oklahoma City and the Texas border. The county seat, Chickasha, is home to the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO), one of the state’s oldest institutions of higher education. The Grady County Historical Society Museum in Chickasha offers exhibits on the county’s history, including its Native American roots and agricultural heritage. The Chickasha Festival of Light, held annually in December, is one of the largest holiday light displays in the region, attracting visitors from across the state.
List of All Counties in Oklahoma Alphabetically
Below please see all Oklahoma counties which are listed in alphabetical order.
- Adair County, OK
- Alfalfa County, OK
- Atoka County, OK
- Beaver County, OK
- Beckham County, OK
- Blaine County, OK
- Bryan County, OK
- Caddo County, OK
- Canadian County, OK
- Carter County, OK
- Cherokee County, OK
- Choctaw County, OK
- Cimarron County, OK
- Cleveland County, OK
- Coal County, OK
- Comanche County, OK
- Cotton County, OK
- Craig County, OK
- Creek County, OK
- Custer County, OK
- Delaware County, OK
- Dewey County, OK
- Ellis County, OK
- Garfield County, OK
- Garvin County, OK
- Grady County, OK
- Grant County, OK
- Greer County, OK
- Harmon County, OK
- Harper County, OK
- Haskell County, OK
- Hughes County, OK
- Jackson County, OK
- Jefferson County, OK
- Johnston County, OK
- Kay County, OK
- Kingfisher County, OK
- Kiowa County, OK
- Latimer County, OK
- Le Flore County, OK
- Lincoln County, OK
- Logan County, OK
- Love County, OK
- Major County, OK
- Marshall County, OK
- Mayes County, OK
- McClain County, OK
- McCurtain County, OK
- McIntosh County, OK
- Murray County, OK
- Muskogee County, OK
- Noble County, OK
- Nowata County, OK
- Okfuskee County, OK
- Oklahoma County, OK
- Okmulgee County, OK
- Osage County, OK
- Ottawa County, OK
- Pawnee County, OK
- Payne County, OK
- Pittsburg County, OK
- Pontotoc County, OK
- Pottawatomie County, OK
- Pushmataha County, OK
- Roger Mills County, OK
- Rogers County, OK
- Seminole County, OK
- Sequoyah County, OK
- Stephens County, OK
- Texas County, OK
- Tillman County, OK
- Tulsa County, OK
- Wagoner County, OK
- Washington County, OK
- Washita County, OK
- Woods County, OK
- Woodward County, OK
Map of Oklahoma Counties
