Ashley County, AR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,429
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$44,266/yr
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,392
-0.1% year-over-year change

Ashley County population

How many people live in Ashley County

Ashley County is home to 18,429 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Ashley County locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
18,429
-1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
8,794
Female
52.3%
9,635
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,794 47.7% -0.8%
Female 9,635 52.3% -2.3%
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 Ashley County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 26.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
26.5%
Over 65
21.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,380 18.3% -2.6%
15 to 24 2,218 12% 0.6%
25 to 44 3,977 21.6% -2.5%
45 to 64 4,891 26.5% -1.7%
Over 65 3,963 21.5% -0.7%
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 Ashley County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,980 97.6% -1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 112 0.6% -20.6%
Non-citizens 337 1.8% 21.7%
Racial breakdown
White
68.8%
Black or African American
23.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
6.5%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 12,681 68.8%
Black or African American 4,366 23.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 39 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 54 0.3%
Two or more races 1,204 6.5%
Other 85 0.5%

Households in Ashley County

A peek inside Ashley County households

Ashley County has 7,356 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.4% are families, while the remaining 40.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,356
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,986
Family households
4,370
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,986 40.6% 6.1%
Family households 4,370 59.4% -0.3%
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 Ashley County

The housing landscape of Ashley County

Ashley County's housing consists of 9,392 units, with 69.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.2% 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 20.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,392
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,511 69.3%
1 unit, attached 14 0.2%
2 units 471 5%
3 or 4 units 152 1.6%
5 to 9 units 155 1.6%
20 to 49 units 125 1.3%
Mobile home 1,943 20.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
56
69.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ashley County

In Ashley County, the median construction year is 1977. About 3.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 321 3.4% -17.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 604 6.4% 5.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,081 11.5% 1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,358 14.5% 11.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,902 20.2% -13.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,179 12.6% 14.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,276 13.6% -13.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 695 7.4% 15.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 920 9.8% 15.6%
Built in 2020 or later 56 0.6% 69.7%
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.

Ashley County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,356 occupied housing units in Ashley County, 70.8% are owner-occupied, while 29.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 21.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,356
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,146
Owner occupied
5,210
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,146 29.2% 7.0%
Owner occupied 5,210 70.8% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
21.7%
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.

Ashley County housing costs

Housing costs in Ashley County come to a median of $578 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $703.

Median housing costs per month
$578/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 Ashley County
$703/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 Ashley County

Ashley County education at a glance

About 59.5% of the population in Ashley County went to high school, while 17.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 8.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 471 3.3% -29.1%
High school diploma 8,499 59.5% -1.6%
College diploma 2,503 17.5% -5.3%
Associate degree 1,048 7.3% 19.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,243 8.7% 3.8%
Graduate degree 524 3.7% 12.7%
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 Ashley County

How much people earn in Ashley County

The average annual household income in Ashley County was $58,274 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $44,266, reflecting a -0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ashley County
$58,274/year
-3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ashley County
$44,266/year
-0.5% year-over-year change

Ashley County income by age

In Ashley County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $58,483. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,284 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $21,855, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $33,649 in earnings. Overall, 78% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $21,855 0.6%
25 - 44 $58,483 -0.8%
45 - 64 $51,284 0.6%
Over 65 $33,649 7.9%
Above poverty level
14,059
Below poverty level
3,975
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,059 78% -0.9%
Below poverty level 3,975 22% -3.8%

Employment in Ashley County

Workforce and job types in Ashley County

The job market in Ashley County is powered by 6,628 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 62.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 37.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.7% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 18.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,628
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
4,152
Blue collar
2,476
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,152 62.6% -1.4%
Blue collar 2,476 37.4% 5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
5.7%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
18.1%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 378 5.7% 6.8%
Private companies 4,538 68.5% 4.0%
Governmental workers 1,197 18.1% -2.1%
Not for profit companies 515 7.8% -15.8%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
-9.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ashley County stands at 5.5%, 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 Ashley County

How people get around in Ashley County

In Ashley County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,217 93.6% 1.1%
Bus or trolleybus 30 0.4% 57.9%
Bicycle 43 0.6% 79.2%
Walk 28 0.4% -48.1%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Ashley County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
71676 529 222 $26,184 $42,728
71635 10,295 4,314 $47,148 $60,393
71642 759 219 $0 $53,226
71646 6,563 2,379 $40,823 $54,842
71658 387 189 $54,107 $68,314
71661 110 24 $28,750 $36,546
71663 571 250 $37,150 $57,404

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FAQs about Ashley County demographics 

What is the total population of Ashley County?

Ashley County has a total population of 18,429 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 -1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ashley County?

The gender ratio in Ashley County is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (8,794 residents)
  • 52.3% females (9,635 residents)

What is the median age in Ashley County?

The median age in Ashley County is 42.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Ashley County?

The age distribution in Ashley County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (3,380 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (2,218 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (3,977 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.5% (4,891 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.5% (3,963 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ashley County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ashley County is as follows:
  • White: 68.8% (12,681 residents)
  • Black or African American: 23.7% (4,366 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (39 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (54 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.5% (1,204 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (85 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Ashley County.

How many housing units are there in Ashley County?

There are 9,392 housing units in Ashley County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ashley County has a total of 7,356 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ashley County?

Ashley County has a median household income of $44,266, representing a -0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Ashley County?

The employment rate is 94.5% in Ashley County, with a workforce of 6,628 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 62.6% (4,152 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 37.4% (2,476 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.7% (378 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (4,538 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.1% (1,197 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (515 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