[3] Per Japanese census data,[5] the population of Ōtawara has remained relatively steady over the past 70 years.

On October 1, 2005, the town of Kurobane, and the village of Yuzukami (both from Nasu District) were merged into Ōtawara.

Ōtawara has a mayor-council form of government with a directly elected mayor and a unicameral town council of 21 members.

In terms of national politics, the town is part of Tochigi 3rd district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.

Tochigi Nikon Corporation, a member of the Nikon Group that designs and manufactures optical products, electronic imaging equipment, semiconductor manufacturing equipment and optical lenses, is also located in Ōtawara.

JR East – Tohoku Main Line (Utsunomiya Line) Ōtawara is home to several historical and cultural assets: The largest sporting event the city hosts is the Tabara Hiroshi Marathon which is held annually on November 23, Labor Day.

Ōtawara has a large sports and recreation complex called the Tochigi Prefectural North Gymnasium.

In addition, there is a separate smaller arena, martial arts area, and training rooms.