Helena, AR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,069
2.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$36,905/yr
-5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,479
1.3% year-over-year change

Helena population

How many people live in Helena

Helena is home to 4,069 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.4% of Helena locals are male, and 55.6% are female.

Total population
4,069
2.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.4%
1,805
Female
55.6%
2,263
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,805 44.4% -0.2%
Female 2,263 55.6% 4.8%
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 Helena is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
47
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
6%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
25.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 701 17.2% -5.3%
15 to 24 243 6% 5.7%
25 to 44 1,030 25.3% 8.4%
45 to 64 1,066 26.2% 5.4%
Over 65 1,030 25.3% -1.0%
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

At the same time, 4.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 29.1% of locals are Caucasian, 63.2% are African American and 4.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,902 95.9% 2.2%
Non-citizens 167 4.1% 12.1%
Racial breakdown
White
29.1%
Black or African American
63.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
4.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.1%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 1,183 29.1%
Black or African American 2,571 63.2%
Asian 167 4.1%
Two or more races 125 3.1%
Other 23 0.6%

Households in Helena

A peek inside Helena households

Helena has 1,644 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.5% are families, while the remaining 49.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,644
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
814
Family households
830
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 814 49.5% 2.3%
Family households 830 50.5% -0.8%
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 Helena

The housing landscape of Helena

Helena's housing consists of 2,479 units, with 58.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,479
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,449 58.4%
1 unit, attached 7 0.3%
2 units 281 11.3%
3 or 4 units 300 12.1%
5 to 9 units 85 3.4%
10 to 19 units 194 7.8%
20 to 49 units 101 4.1%
Mobile home 63 2.5%
Homes built since 2020
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Helena

In Helena, the median construction year is 1973. About 17.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 428 17.3% 39.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 55 2.2% 77.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 196 7.9% -2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 353 14.2% -11.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 662 26.7% -4.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 428 17.3% -3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 263 10.6% 0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 52 2.1% -20.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 43 1.7% -17.3%
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.

Helena occupancy rates

Out of the 1,644 occupied housing units in Helena, 36.9% are owner-occupied, while 63.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 33.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,644
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,037
Owner occupied
607
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,037 63.1% 1.1%
Owner occupied 607 36.9% 0.0%
Unoccupied housing units
33.7%
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.

Helena housing costs

Housing costs in Helena come to a median of $714 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $704.

Median housing costs per month
$714/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 Helena
$704/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 Helena

Helena education at a glance

About 44.8% of the population in Helena went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 268 8.2% 58.6%
High school diploma 1,475 44.8% -0.3%
College diploma 768 23.4% 1.4%
Associate degree 252 7.7% 10.5%
Bachelor's degree 395 12% 10.0%
Graduate degree 131 4% -14.9%
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 Helena

How much people earn in Helena

The average annual household income in Helena was $31,760 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $36,905, reflecting a -5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Helena
$31,760/year
5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Helena
$36,905/year
-5.8% year-over-year change

Helena income by age

In Helena, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $45,592. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $35,380 overall. Overall, 73.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $45,592 10.0%
45 - 64 $35,380 -6.1%
Over 65 $27,969 -6.4%
Above poverty level
2,901
Below poverty level
1,052
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 2,901 73.4% 0.4%
Below poverty level 1,052 26.6% 10.5%

Employment in Helena

Workforce and job types in Helena

65.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 25.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
806
Blue collar
421
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 806 65.7% -7.5%
Blue collar 421 34.3% 4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
25.4%
Not for profit companies
1.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 83 6.8% 33.9%
Private companies 810 66% -4.8%
Governmental workers 311 25.4% -6.3%
Not for profit companies 23 1.9% -17.9%

Transportation in Helena

How people get around in Helena

Commuting methods vary: 95% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% 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 1,055 95% -5.3%
Bus or trolleybus 38 3.4% 15.2%
Walk 17 1.5% 142.9%
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 Helena by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72342 4,070 1,644 $36,905 $47,225

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FAQs about Helena demographics 

What is the total population of Helena?

Helena has a total population of 4,069 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 +2.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Helena?

The gender ratio in Helena is as follows:
  • 44.4% males (1,805 residents)
  • 55.6% females (2,263 residents)

What is the median age in Helena?

The median age in Helena is 47.

What is the age distribution of the population in Helena?

The age distribution in Helena is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (701 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 6% (243 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (1,030 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (1,066 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.3% (1,030 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Helena?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Helena is as follows:
  • White: 29.1% (1,183 residents)
  • Black or African American: 63.2% (2,571 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% ( residents)
  • Asian: 4.1% (167 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.1% (125 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (23 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.9% of the population in Helena.

How many housing units are there in Helena?

There are 2,479 housing units in Helena, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Helena has a total of 1,644 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Helena?

Helena has a median household income of $36,905, representing a -5.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Helena?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.7% (806 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.3% (421 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (83 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (810 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 25.4% (311 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 1.9% (23 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