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

Total population
38,175
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,609/yr
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,786
0.3% year-over-year change

Independence County population

How many people live in Independence County

Independence County is home to 38,175 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Independence County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
38,175
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
18,917
Female
50.4%
19,258
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,917 49.6% -0.7%
Female 19,258 50.4% 1.0%
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 Independence County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.2% are children under 15, then 13.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.8% of the population, while another 24.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.2%
15 to 24
13.7%
25 to 44
23.8%
45 to 64
24.7%
Over 65
17.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,721 20.2% 1.0%
15 to 24 5,218 13.7% 2.1%
25 to 44 9,095 23.8% 0.4%
45 to 64 9,433 24.7% -2.1%
Over 65 6,708 17.6% 0.5%
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 Independence County, 95.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.3% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,485 95.6% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 608 1.6% -22.4%
Non-citizens 1,082 2.8% 22.8%
Racial breakdown
White
83.6%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.3%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
4.5%
Value Percent
White 31,927 83.6%
Black or African American 701 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 228 0.6%
Asian 332 0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 111 0.3%
Two or more races 3,155 8.3%
Other 1,721 4.5%

Households in Independence County

A peek inside Independence County households

Independence County has 14,638 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.3% are families, while the remaining 31.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,638
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,643
Family households
9,995
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,643 31.7% 3.0%
Family households 9,995 68.3% -0.1%
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 Independence County

The housing landscape of Independence County

Independence County's housing consists of 16,786 units, with 69.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.1% 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 22.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,786
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,656 69.4%
1 unit, attached 18 0.1%
2 units 320 1.9%
3 or 4 units 415 2.5%
5 to 9 units 125 0.7%
10 to 19 units 161 1%
20 to 49 units 170 1%
50 or more units 169 1%
Mobile home 3,704 22.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 48 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
198
44.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Independence County

In Independence County, the median construction year is 1988. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 746 4.4% 10.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 547 3.3% -12.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 694 4.1% -27.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,443 8.6% 10.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,965 17.7% 5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,613 15.6% -2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,095 18.4% -7.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,330 13.9% 4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,155 12.8% 8.4%
Built in 2020 or later 198 1.2% 44.5%
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.

Independence County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,638 occupied housing units in Independence County, 69.2% are owner-occupied, while 30.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,638
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,510
Owner occupied
10,128
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,510 30.8% -4.0%
Owner occupied 10,128 69.2% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
12.8%
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.

Independence County housing costs

Housing costs in Independence County come to a median of $810 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $845.

Median housing costs per month
$810/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 Independence County
$845/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 Independence County

Independence County education at a glance

About 44.7% of the population in Independence County went to high school, while 25.1% pursued college studies. Another 9.7% earned an associate degree and 11.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,029 3.6% 1.2%
High school diploma 12,916 44.7% -5.1%
College diploma 7,248 25.1% 0.9%
Associate degree 2,804 9.7% 4.0%
Bachelor's degree 3,339 11.6% 14.3%
Graduate degree 1,556 5.4% 5.1%
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 Independence County

How much people earn in Independence County

The average annual household income in Independence County was $78,952 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,609, reflecting a +1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Independence County
$78,952/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Independence County
$56,609/year
1.1% year-over-year change

Independence County income by age

In Independence County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,197. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,354 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,868, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,653 in earnings. Overall, 79.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,868 6.1%
25 - 44 $63,197 -1.6%
45 - 64 $60,354 3.3%
Over 65 $45,653 6.5%
Above poverty level
29,240
Below poverty level
7,564
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 29,240 79.4% -0.5%
Below poverty level 7,564 20.6% 6.3%

Employment in Independence County

Workforce and job types in Independence County

The job market in Independence County is powered by 16,602 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.5% run their own businesses, 67.7% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,602
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
10,970
Blue collar
5,632
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,970 66.1% 2.0%
Blue collar 5,632 33.9% -2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.5%
Private companies
67.7%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,577 9.5% 1.1%
Private companies 11,238 67.7% 1.4%
Governmental workers 2,327 14% -7.2%
Not for profit companies 1,460 8.8% 6.3%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
-16.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Independence County stands at 3.9%, 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 Independence County

How people get around in Independence County

Commuting methods vary: 91% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2% 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 14,990 91% 1.4%
Taxicab 18 0.1% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 15 0.1% -6.2%
Bicycle 35 0.2% -58.8%
Walk 336 2% 5.0%
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 Independence County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72165 40 22 $0 $0
72020 3,100 1,204 $49,231 $62,258
72501 26,218 9,812 $52,829 $78,714
72521 4,910 1,846 $59,591 $70,329
72522 191 88 $36,591 $33,998
72523 961 376 $57,206 $62,832
72524 163 105 $0 $31,934
72526 158 68 $63,333 $68,400
72527 636 391 $72,917 $56,837
72534 1,368 559 $0 $63,825

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FAQs about Independence County demographics 

What is the total population of Independence County?

Independence County has a total population of 38,175 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Independence County?

The gender ratio in Independence County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (18,917 residents)
  • 50.4% females (19,258 residents)

What is the median age in Independence County?

The median age in Independence County is 38.7.

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

The age distribution in Independence County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.2% (7,721 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.7% (5,218 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.8% (9,095 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.7% (9,433 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.6% (6,708 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Independence County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Independence County is as follows:
  • White: 83.6% (31,927 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (701 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (228 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (332 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.3% (111 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (3,155 residents)
  • Other: 4.5% (1,721 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.6% of the population in Independence County.

How many housing units are there in Independence County?

There are 16,786 housing units in Independence County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Independence County has a total of 14,638 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Independence County?

Independence County has a median household income of $56,609, representing a +1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.1% in Independence County, with a workforce of 16,602 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.1% (10,970 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.9% (5,632 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.5% (1,577 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.7% (11,238 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (2,327 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (1,460 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