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

Total population
8,064
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,646/yr
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,086
-0.2% year-over-year change

Prairie County population

How many people live in Prairie County

Prairie County is home to 8,064 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Prairie County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
8,064
-1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
4,071
Female
49.5%
3,993
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,071 50.5% -1.1%
Female 3,993 49.5% -1.3%
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 Prairie County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.5% of the population, while another 27.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
20.5%
45 to 64
27.9%
Over 65
23.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,259 15.6% 1.5%
15 to 24 1,002 12.4% 1.2%
25 to 44 1,655 20.5% -4.0%
45 to 64 2,248 27.9% -1.6%
Over 65 1,900 23.6% -1.2%
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 Prairie County, 99.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,990 99.1% -1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 63 0.8% 125.0%
Non-citizens 11 0.1% -21.4%
Racial breakdown
White
83.8%
Black or African American
9.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 6,758 83.8%
Black or African American 796 9.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.2%
Two or more races 391 4.8%
Other 106 1.3%

Households in Prairie County

A peek inside Prairie County households

Prairie County has 3,256 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.9% are families, while the remaining 39.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,256
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,274
Family households
1,982
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,274 39.1% 3.8%
Family households 1,982 60.9% -2.5%
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 Prairie County

The housing landscape of Prairie County

Prairie County's housing consists of 4,086 units, with 71.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 18.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,086
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,908 71.2%
1 unit, attached 2 0%
2 units 161 3.9%
3 or 4 units 125 3.1%
5 to 9 units 43 1%
10 to 19 units 67 1.6%
20 to 49 units 10 0.2%
Mobile home 770 18.8%
Homes built since 2020
30
36.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Prairie County

In Prairie County, the median construction year is 1979. About 3.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 146 3.6% -0.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 168 4.1% 3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 242 5.9% -27.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 910 22.3% 20.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 650 15.9% -9.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 596 14.6% -3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 828 20.3% 9.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 184 4.5% -35.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 332 8.1% 10.3%
Built in 2020 or later 30 0.7% 36.4%
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.

Prairie County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,256 occupied housing units in Prairie County, 75.8% are owner-occupied, while 24.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 20.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,256
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
789
Owner occupied
2,467
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 789 24.2% 1.0%
Owner occupied 2,467 75.8% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
20.3%
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.

Prairie County housing costs

Housing costs in Prairie County come to a median of $624 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $625.

Median housing costs per month
$624/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 Prairie County
$625/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 Prairie County

Prairie County education at a glance

About 50.8% of the population in Prairie County went to high school, while 17.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 13.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 336 5.2% -4.5%
High school diploma 3,253 50.8% -4.6%
College diploma 1,147 17.9% -6.1%
Associate degree 530 8.3% 16.0%
Bachelor's degree 837 13.1% 12.7%
Graduate degree 301 4.7% -8.5%
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 Prairie County

How much people earn in Prairie County

The average annual household income in Prairie County was $72,576 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,646, reflecting a +1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Prairie County
$72,576/year
-3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Prairie County
$51,646/year
1.1% year-over-year change

Prairie County income by age

In Prairie County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $94,861. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $56,076 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $85,884, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,730 in earnings. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $85,884 N/A
25 - 44 $94,861 9.4%
45 - 64 $56,076 -2.5%
Over 65 $37,730 4.8%
Above poverty level
6,863
Below poverty level
924
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,863 88.1% -3.6%
Below poverty level 924 11.9% 25.7%

Employment in Prairie County

Workforce and job types in Prairie County

The job market in Prairie County is powered by 3,476 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16% run their own businesses, 59.9% are employed by private companies, and 16.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,476
-2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
2,341
Blue collar
1,135
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,341 67.4% -0.4%
Blue collar 1,135 32.6% -6.5%
Employer type
Self employees
16%
Private companies
59.9%
Governmental workers
16.2%
Not for profit companies
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 555 16% 11.4%
Private companies 2,082 59.9% -5.0%
Governmental workers 564 16.2% -4.7%
Not for profit companies 275 7.9% -2.5%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
-27.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Prairie County stands at 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 Prairie County

How people get around in Prairie County

In Prairie County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 94.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
0.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,213 94.3% -2.1%
Walk 25 0.7% -59.7%
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 Prairie County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72160 9,071 3,819 $50,403 $67,394
72170 174 74 $63,438 $72,007
72176 8,678 3,180 $68,840 $85,233
72017 203 90 $91,731 $86,093
72024 3,998 1,550 $58,750 $81,150
72040 2,421 1,054 $32,476 $60,439
72041 1,175 514 $53,125 $58,981
72060 539 271 $26,875 $33,835
72064 2,781 1,033 $63,897 $88,556

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Prairie County demographics 

What is the total population of Prairie County?

Prairie County has a total population of 8,064 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 -1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Prairie County?

The gender ratio in Prairie County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (4,071 residents)
  • 49.5% females (3,993 residents)

What is the median age in Prairie County?

The median age in Prairie County is 45.7.

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

The age distribution in Prairie County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (1,259 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (1,002 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.5% (1,655 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.9% (2,248 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.6% (1,900 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Prairie County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Prairie County is as follows:
  • White: 83.8% (6,758 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.9% (796 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (391 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (106 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.1% of the population in Prairie County.

How many housing units are there in Prairie County?

There are 4,086 housing units in Prairie 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 Prairie County and what is the average household size?

Prairie County has a total of 3,256 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Prairie County?

Prairie County has a median household income of $51,646, 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 Prairie County?

The employment rate is 97% in Prairie County, with a workforce of 3,476 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.4% (2,341 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.6% (1,135 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16% (555 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.9% (2,082 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.2% (564 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.9% (275 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