Arkansas demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,049,391
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,773/yr
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,394,673
0.9% year-over-year change

Arkansas population

How many people live in Arkansas

Arkansas is home to 3,049,391 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Arkansas locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
3,049,391
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
1,505,064
Female
50.6%
1,544,327
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,505,064 49.4% 0.6%
Female 1,544,327 50.6% 0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Arkansas is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 13.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
13.5%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
17.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 578,643 19% -0.5%
15 to 24 411,576 13.5% 1.0%
25 to 44 783,166 25.7% 0.9%
45 to 64 740,029 24.3% -0.3%
Over 65 535,977 17.6% 2.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Arkansas, 93.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 69.2% of locals are Caucasian, 14.7% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,862,020 93.9% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 78,515 2.6% 1.7%
Non-citizens 108,856 3.6% 6.3%
Racial breakdown
White
69.2%
Black or African American
14.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
10.3%
Other
3.2%
Value Percent
White 2,108,596 69.2%
Black or African American 448,673 14.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17,036 0.6%
Asian 49,686 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 12,259 0.4%
Two or more races 315,183 10.3%
Other 97,958 3.2%

Households in Arkansas

A peek inside Arkansas households

Arkansas has 1,205,987 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.6% are families, while the remaining 35.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,205,987
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
426,913
Family households
779,074
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 426,913 35.4% 2.4%
Family households 779,074 64.6% 0.9%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Arkansas

The housing landscape of Arkansas

Arkansas's housing consists of 1,394,673 units, with 70% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 11% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,394,673
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 975,991 70%
1 unit, attached 26,755 1.9%
2 units 43,586 3.1%
3 or 4 units 46,735 3.4%
5 to 9 units 47,332 3.4%
10 to 19 units 50,304 3.6%
20 to 49 units 22,294 1.6%
50 or more units 25,850 1.8%
Mobile home 152,925 11%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 2,901 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
29,455
81.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Arkansas

In Arkansas, the median construction year is 1987. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 57,526 4.1% -2.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 44,603 3.2% -5.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 81,756 5.9% -2.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 134,247 9.6% 0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 234,573 16.8% -0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 198,297 14.2% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 222,461 16% -2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 223,272 16% 1.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 168,483 12.1% 6.9%
Built in 2020 or later 29,455 2.1% 81.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Arkansas occupancy rates

Out of the 1,205,987 occupied housing units in Arkansas, 66.4% are owner-occupied, while 33.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,205,987
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
405,123
Owner occupied
800,864
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 405,123 33.6% 0.6%
Owner occupied 800,864 66.4% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Arkansas housing costs

Housing costs in Arkansas come to a median of $894 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $947.

Median housing costs per month
$894/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Arkansas
$947/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Arkansas

Arkansas education at a glance

About 42% of the population in Arkansas went to high school, while 22.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 15.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 92,650 4% -0.3%
High school diploma 985,245 42% 0.3%
College diploma 523,981 22.4% -1.6%
Associate degree 182,878 7.8% 3.1%
Bachelor's degree 362,859 15.5% 3.4%
Graduate degree 196,768 8.4% 3.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Arkansas

How much people earn in Arkansas

The average annual household income in Arkansas was $84,759 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,773, reflecting a +3.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Arkansas
$84,759/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Arkansas
$60,773/year
3.4% year-over-year change

Arkansas income by age

In Arkansas, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,825. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $71,038 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $39,731, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,887 in earnings. Overall, 84.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $39,731 5.5%
25 - 44 $69,825 4.3%
45 - 64 $71,038 2.6%
Over 65 $45,887 2.6%
Above poverty level
2,463,945
Below poverty level
465,468
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,463,945 84.1% 0.6%
Below poverty level 465,468 15.9% 0.5%

Employment in Arkansas

Workforce and job types in Arkansas

The job market in Arkansas is powered by 1,341,614 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 66.1% are employed by private companies, and 15.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,341,614
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
986,937
Blue collar
354,677
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 986,937 73.6% 1.9%
Blue collar 354,677 26.4% -1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
66.1%
Governmental workers
15.2%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 141,560 10.6% 1.8%
Private companies 886,788 66.1% 0.5%
Governmental workers 203,846 15.2% 1.3%
Not for profit companies 109,420 8.2% 4.6%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-2.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Arkansas stands at 4.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Arkansas

How people get around in Arkansas

In Arkansas, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
0.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,172,029 88.3% -0.0%
Taxicab 1,302 0.1% 81.1%
Bus or trolleybus 3,290 0.2% -6.5%
Subway or elevated 60 0% N/A
Railroad 14 0% N/A
Ferryboat 121 0% -0.8%
Motorcycle 1,399 0.1% -2.3%
Bicycle 2,086 0.2% 9.9%
Walk 18,261 1.4% -7.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Arkansas demographics 

What is the total population of Arkansas?

Arkansas has a total population of 3,049,391 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Arkansas?

The gender ratio in Arkansas is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (1,505,064 residents)
  • 50.6% females (1,544,327 residents)

What is the median age in Arkansas?

The median age in Arkansas is 38.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Arkansas?

The age distribution in Arkansas is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (578,643 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.5% (411,576 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (783,166 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (740,029 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.6% (535,977 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Arkansas?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Arkansas is as follows:
  • White: 69.2% (2,108,596 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.7% (448,673 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (17,036 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (49,686 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (12,259 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.3% (315,183 residents)
  • Other: 3.2% (97,958 residents)

What percentage of the population in Arkansas are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.9% of the population in Arkansas.

How many housing units are there in Arkansas?

There are 1,394,673 housing units in Arkansas, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Arkansas and what is the average household size?

Arkansas has a total of 1,205,987 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Arkansas?

Arkansas has a median household income of $60,773, representing a +3.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Arkansas?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Arkansas, with a workforce of 1,341,614 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.6% (986,937 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.4% (354,677 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (141,560 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.1% (886,788 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.2% (203,846 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (109,420 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025