This article outlines the recent work in using density functional methods to describe the structure and properties of the actinide oxides. The area represents a rich research history of using various methods such as local-density approximation/generalized gradient approximation (LDA/GGA), modified density functional theory (DFT+U), self-interaction correction methods (SIC), density functional theory + dynamic mean field theory (DFT+DMFT), and hybrid density functional theory (HSE) to assess the accuracy of predicting the properties of the oxides. Herein, the methods are assessed with respect to their accuracy in predicting the lattice constants, bulk moduli, band gap, and volumes based on experiment. Of the oxides, the dioxides represent the most complete analysis of the actinide series; of the elements, the most comprehensive study of structure–property relationships has been performed for the uranium oxides; and of the methods, DFT+U has been able to accurately reproduce the known properties of the actinide oxides at a reasonable computational cost. While the issues associated with theoretical methods remain challenging, it is clear that the field will continue to push the bounds and ultimately lead to a predictive science for development of new nuclear materials.