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

Total population
17,773
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$44,637/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,525
0.1% year-over-year change

Sharp County population

How many people live in Sharp County

Sharp County is home to 17,773 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Sharp County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
17,773
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
8,689
Female
51.1%
9,084
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,689 48.9% 0.6%
Female 9,084 51.1% 1.4%
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 Sharp County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.4% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.1% of the population, while another 27% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.4%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
20.1%
45 to 64
27%
Over 65
25.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,924 16.4% 0.1%
15 to 24 1,955 11% 1.6%
25 to 44 3,570 20.1% 3.0%
45 to 64 4,793 27% -0.2%
Over 65 4,531 25.5% 1.1%
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 Sharp County, 98.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.5% 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
98.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,478 98.3% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 169 1% 11.9%
Non-citizens 126 0.7% 21.1%
Racial breakdown
White
91.6%
Black or African American
0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 16,279 91.6%
Black or African American 88 0.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 31 0.2%
Asian 119 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 1,026 5.8%
Other 226 1.3%

Households in Sharp County

A peek inside Sharp County households

Sharp County has 6,856 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 66.3% are families, while the remaining 33.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,856
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,313
Family households
4,543
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,313 33.7% -2.4%
Family households 4,543 66.3% 2.3%
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 Sharp County

The housing landscape of Sharp County

Sharp County's housing consists of 9,525 units, with 81.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 12.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,525
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,755 81.4%
1 unit, attached 113 1.2%
2 units 69 0.7%
3 or 4 units 194 2%
5 to 9 units 80 0.8%
10 to 19 units 56 0.6%
20 to 49 units 64 0.7%
Mobile home 1,158 12.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 36 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
116
50.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sharp County

In Sharp County, the median construction year is 1978. About 3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4% 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 285 3% 50.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 68 0.7% -1.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 424 4.4% -6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,433 15% 0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,329 35% 2.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,377 14.5% -11.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,303 13.7% 1.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 808 8.5% -12.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 382 4% 26.1%
Built in 2020 or later 116 1.2% 50.6%
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.

Sharp County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,856 occupied housing units in Sharp County, 78.8% are owner-occupied, while 21.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 28% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,856
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,451
Owner occupied
5,405
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,451 21.2% 4.2%
Owner occupied 5,405 78.8% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
28.0%
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.

Sharp County housing costs

Housing costs in Sharp County come to a median of $650 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $766.

Median housing costs per month
$650/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 Sharp County
$766/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 Sharp County

Sharp County education at a glance

About 51.1% of the population in Sharp County went to high school, while 25.1% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 9.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 447 3.2% -10.1%
High school diploma 7,226 51.1% -2.0%
College diploma 3,550 25.1% -0.1%
Associate degree 1,074 7.6% 9.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,318 9.3% 19.1%
Graduate degree 536 3.8% 17.8%
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 Sharp County

How much people earn in Sharp County

The average annual household income in Sharp County was $69,113 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $44,637, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sharp County
$69,113/year
4.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sharp County
$44,637/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Sharp County income by age

In Sharp County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,776. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $59,875 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,393, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,049 in earnings. Overall, 83.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,393 18.4%
25 - 44 $61,776 3.9%
45 - 64 $59,875 11.9%
Over 65 $35,049 9.0%
Above poverty level
14,543
Below poverty level
2,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,543 83.6% 2.5%
Below poverty level 2,851 16.4% -2.3%

Employment in Sharp County

Workforce and job types in Sharp County

The job market in Sharp County is powered by 6,024 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.1% run their own businesses, 66.2% are employed by private companies, and 14.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,024
-1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
4,185
Blue collar
1,839
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,185 69.5% -2.1%
Blue collar 1,839 30.5% 0.8%
Employer type
Self employees
12.1%
Private companies
66.2%
Governmental workers
14.8%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 730 12.1% 19.3%
Private companies 3,989 66.2% -3.0%
Governmental workers 892 14.8% -11.2%
Not for profit companies 413 6.9% 11.6%
Unemployment rate
8.1%
25.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sharp County stands at 8.1%, 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 Sharp County

How people get around in Sharp County

Commuting methods vary: 90.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 5,367 90.3% -3.2%
Bus or trolleybus 18 0.3% 28.6%
Motorcycle 9 0.2% -25.0%
Walk 71 1.2% 31.5%
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 Sharp County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72459 1,348 578 $39,167 $50,011
72466 1,461 508 $79,808 $218,797
72469 1,050 462 $44,421 $59,589
72482 1,226 515 $35,855 $49,339
72513 2,888 1,033 $40,055 $50,452
72521 4,910 1,846 $59,591 $70,329
72529 5,059 2,230 $37,355 $54,744
72532 1,618 541 $38,750 $56,624
72542 4,072 1,537 $41,295 $62,935
72554 2,817 999 $42,851 $57,984

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FAQs about Sharp County demographics 

What is the total population of Sharp County?

Sharp County has a total population of 17,773 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sharp County?

The gender ratio in Sharp County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (8,689 residents)
  • 51.1% females (9,084 residents)

What is the median age in Sharp County?

The median age in Sharp County is 47.1.

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

The age distribution in Sharp County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.4% (2,924 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (1,955 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.1% (3,570 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27% (4,793 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.5% (4,531 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sharp County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sharp County is as follows:
  • White: 91.6% (16,279 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.5% (88 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (31 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (119 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (1,026 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (226 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.3% of the population in Sharp County.

How many housing units are there in Sharp County?

There are 9,525 housing units in Sharp 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 Sharp County and what is the average household size?

Sharp County has a total of 6,856 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sharp County?

Sharp County has a median household income of $44,637, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.9% in Sharp County, with a workforce of 6,024 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.5% (4,185 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.5% (1,839 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.1% (730 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.2% (3,989 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.8% (892 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (413 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