The Ta-Oy have more cash income than most of the other mountain peoples because they are skilled at hunting and taming elephants. There are also irrigation projects, new uses of agricultural machinery, and other local industries that have provided them with extra income. They also dig ponds and raise fish. The Ta-Oy live in villages, or vel . Each village consists of a few houses built on stilts, and several families live in each house.
Every village also has a large community home, which serves as a reception room or meeting place.
This home is typically decorated with animal horns bird feathers. In Ta-Oy society, there is a clear distinction between the rich and the poor. Nevertheless, a spirit of community prevails. The Ta-Oy are divided into several clans. Maternal uncles are highly respected by the Ta-Oy.