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

Total population
42,407
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,452/yr
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,883
0.2% year-over-year change

Baxter County population

How many people live in Baxter County

Baxter County is home to 42,407 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Baxter County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
42,407
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
20,755
Female
51.1%
21,652
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,755 48.9% 1.1%
Female 21,652 51.1% 0.2%
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 Baxter County is 51, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 9.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19.8% of the population, while another 25.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 31% are 65 or older.

Median age
51.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
9.5%
25 to 44
19.8%
45 to 64
25.5%
Over 65
31%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,002 14.2% 0.3%
15 to 24 4,042 9.5% 0.8%
25 to 44 8,416 19.8% 2.6%
45 to 64 10,807 25.5% -0.5%
Over 65 13,140 31% 0.3%
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 Baxter County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 41,400 97.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 765 1.8% 3.4%
Non-citizens 242 0.6% -5.8%
Racial breakdown
White
92.2%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 39,118 92.2%
Black or African American 136 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 171 0.4%
Asian 294 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 2,452 5.8%
Other 230 0.5%

Households in Baxter County

A peek inside Baxter County households

Baxter County has 19,348 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,348
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,317
Family households
12,031
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,317 37.8% -0.0%
Family households 12,031 62.2% 0.5%
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 Baxter County

The housing landscape of Baxter County

Baxter County's housing consists of 22,883 units, with 73.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.8% 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 12.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,883
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,882 73.8%
1 unit, attached 646 2.8%
2 units 480 2.1%
3 or 4 units 673 2.9%
5 to 9 units 474 2.1%
10 to 19 units 189 0.8%
20 to 49 units 217 1%
50 or more units 325 1.4%
Mobile home 2,792 12.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 205 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
190
258.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Baxter County

In Baxter County, the median construction year is 1985. About 4.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 937 4.1% 0.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 379 1.7% -37.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,017 4.4% 0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,709 7.5% -8.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,689 24.9% -0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,558 15.6% -4.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,563 19.9% 2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,112 13.6% 6.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,729 7.6% 10.1%
Built in 2020 or later 190 0.8% 258.5%
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.

Baxter County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,348 occupied housing units in Baxter County, 75.2% are owner-occupied, while 24.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,348
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,799
Owner occupied
14,549
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,799 24.8% -0.6%
Owner occupied 14,549 75.2% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
15.4%
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.

Baxter County housing costs

Housing costs in Baxter County come to a median of $754 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $846.

Median housing costs per month
$754/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 Baxter County
$846/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 Baxter County

Baxter County education at a glance

About 42% of the population in Baxter County went to high school, while 24.9% pursued college studies. Another 12.3% earned an associate degree and 13.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 941 2.7% -1.8%
High school diploma 14,653 42% -3.6%
College diploma 8,694 24.9% 0.8%
Associate degree 4,303 12.3% 12.7%
Bachelor's degree 4,565 13.1% 5.5%
Graduate degree 1,742 5% -0.2%
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 Baxter County

How much people earn in Baxter County

The average annual household income in Baxter County was $71,486 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $48,452, reflecting a +0% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Baxter County
$71,486/year
5.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Baxter County
$48,452/year
0.1% year-over-year change

Baxter County income by age

In Baxter County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $58,125. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,841 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,180, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,215 in earnings. Overall, 84.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,180 2.4%
25 - 44 $58,125 2.3%
45 - 64 $53,841 3.3%
Over 65 $44,215 0.9%
Above poverty level
35,170
Below poverty level
6,394
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 35,170 84.6% -0.8%
Below poverty level 6,394 15.4% 7.7%

Employment in Baxter County

Workforce and job types in Baxter County

The job market in Baxter County is powered by 14,785 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.8% run their own businesses, 66.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,785
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
10,501
Blue collar
4,284
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,501 71% 1.5%
Blue collar 4,284 29% -5.2%
Employer type
Self employees
14.8%
Private companies
66.7%
Governmental workers
11.6%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,181 14.8% -1.5%
Private companies 9,865 66.7% 1.5%
Governmental workers 1,714 11.6% -9.7%
Not for profit companies 1,025 6.9% -0.7%
Unemployment rate
6.3%
13.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Baxter County stands at 6.3%, 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 Baxter County

How people get around in Baxter County

Commuting methods vary: 89.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,916 89.4% -2.1%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -33.3%
Motorcycle 13 0.1% -35.0%
Bicycle 5 0% -16.7%
Walk 265 1.8% 9.5%
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 Baxter County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72617 444 100 $0 $66,125
72623 565 195 $46,354 $64,248
72626 1,294 630 $36,417 $59,120
72635 3,426 1,400 $49,709 $66,054
72642 1,664 824 $68,810 $85,029
72651 1,304 706 $30,000 $49,699
72519 2,945 955 $48,438 $52,191
72531 870 348 $66,397 $66,652
72537 535 328 $40,441 $49,034
72544 952 404 $44,057 $56,702

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FAQs about Baxter County demographics 

What is the total population of Baxter County?

Baxter County has a total population of 42,407 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 Baxter County?

The gender ratio in Baxter County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (20,755 residents)
  • 51.1% females (21,652 residents)

What is the median age in Baxter County?

The median age in Baxter County is 51.4.

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

The age distribution in Baxter County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (6,002 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.5% (4,042 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19.8% (8,416 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.5% (10,807 residents)
  • Over 65: 31% (13,140 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Baxter County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Baxter County is as follows:
  • White: 92.2% (39,118 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (136 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (171 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (294 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (2,452 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (230 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Baxter County?

There are 22,883 housing units in Baxter County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Baxter County has a total of 19,348 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Baxter County?

Baxter County has a median household income of $48,452, representing a +0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.7% in Baxter County, with a workforce of 14,785 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71% (10,501 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29% (4,284 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.8% (2,181 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.7% (9,865 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.6% (1,714 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (1,025 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