The oropharynx is a common location for malignant tumors, with squamous cell carcinomas accounting for over 90% of cases. The incidence of oropharyngeal cancer has significantly increased in the past decade, primarily due to the transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV). Non-HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer is associated with smoking and alcohol consumption, similar to most head and neck cancers. HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer predominantly affects younger individuals with no history of heavy smoking or alcohol use and often presents with early neck metastasis. Its pathogenesis is linked to the overexpression of the p16 protein. Currently, HPV-16 and HPV-18 are the only viruses clearly associated with the development of head and neck cancer, making p16 immunohistochemistry essential in every oropharyngeal tumor biopsy. Fortunately, HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer shows a better response to treatment and is associated with a more favorable prognosis. A unique staging system has been developed for managing these patients with early-stage cancer often treated with a single modality and advanced stages requiring multimodal approaches. Transoral laser microsurgery and robot surgery are innovative techniques that contribute to achieving favorable oncological and functional outcomes. Lastly, lymphomas, salivary gland neoplasms, and mesenchymal tumors are rare malignancies that can occur in the oropharynx.