Van Buren, AR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
23,763
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,149/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,862
3.7% year-over-year change

Van Buren population

How many people live in Van Buren

Van Buren is home to 23,763 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Van Buren locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
23,763
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
11,372
Female
52.1%
12,391
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,372 47.9% 0.1%
Female 12,391 52.1% 1.7%
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 Van Buren is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.4% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.6% of the population, while another 22% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.4%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
28.6%
45 to 64
22%
Over 65
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,846 20.4% -2.7%
15 to 24 2,763 11.6% 5.2%
25 to 44 6,795 28.6% -1.2%
45 to 64 5,226 22% 4.0%
Over 65 4,133 17.4% 2.4%
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 Van Buren, 90.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.2%
Non-citizens
4.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,551 90.7% -0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,237 5.2% 6.7%
Non-citizens 975 4.1% 17.2%
Racial breakdown
White
72.8%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.4%
Other
7.1%
Value Percent
White 17,296 72.8%
Black or African American 482 2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 254 1.1%
Asian 610 2.6%
Two or more races 3,426 14.4%
Other 1,695 7.1%

Households in Van Buren

A peek inside Van Buren households

Van Buren has 9,149 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.8% are families, while the remaining 28.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,149
4.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,578
Family households
6,571
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,578 28.2% 8.8%
Family households 6,571 71.8% 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 Van Buren

The housing landscape of Van Buren

Van Buren's housing consists of 9,862 units, with 77.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 1.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,862
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,628 77.4%
1 unit, attached 61 0.6%
2 units 689 7%
3 or 4 units 368 3.7%
5 to 9 units 357 3.6%
10 to 19 units 408 4.1%
20 to 49 units 168 1.7%
50 or more units 51 0.5%
Mobile home 132 1.3%
Homes built since 2020
168
95.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Van Buren

In Van Buren, the median construction year is 1990. About 3.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 18.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 356 3.6% 39.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 303 3.1% -7.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 294 3% -31.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 646 6.6% 14.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,975 20% 1.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,393 14.1% 0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,358 23.9% -0.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,827 18.5% 10.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 542 5.5% 7.3%
Built in 2020 or later 168 1.7% 95.3%
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.

Van Buren occupancy rates

Out of the 9,149 occupied housing units in Van Buren, 65.6% are owner-occupied, while 34.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,149
4.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,144
Owner occupied
6,005
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,144 34.4% -4.4%
Owner occupied 6,005 65.6% 9.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.2%
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.

Van Buren housing costs

Housing costs in Van Buren come to a median of $834 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $847.

Median housing costs per month
$834/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 Van Buren
$847/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 Van Buren

Van Buren education at a glance

About 47.3% of the population in Van Buren went to high school, while 23.1% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 663 3.7% -16.3%
High school diploma 8,509 47.3% 0.9%
College diploma 4,154 23.1% -1.0%
Associate degree 1,217 6.8% 12.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,523 14% 6.8%
Graduate degree 923 5.1% 1.0%
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 Van Buren

How much people earn in Van Buren

The average annual household income in Van Buren was $74,505 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,149, reflecting a +2.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Van Buren
$74,505/year
3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Van Buren
$61,149/year
2.9% year-over-year change

Van Buren income by age

In Van Buren, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,182. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,891 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,019, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,206 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 $37,019 -26.7%
25 - 44 $66,182 8.1%
45 - 64 $65,891 5.0%
Over 65 $52,206 -6.6%
Above poverty level
19,480
Below poverty level
3,559
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,480 84.6% 2.6%
Below poverty level 3,559 15.4% -4.9%

Average renter income in Van Buren

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Van Buren, their median household income was $32,185 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,185
Rent-to-income ratio
31.6%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Van Buren

Workforce and job types in Van Buren

The job market in Van Buren is powered by 10,558 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 71% are employed by private companies, and 11.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,558
4.9% year-over-year change
White collar
7,461
Blue collar
3,097
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,461 70.7% 8.1%
Blue collar 3,097 29.3% -2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
71%
Governmental workers
11.3%
Not for profit companies
7.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,072 10.2% 0.3%
Private companies 7,494 71% 5.8%
Governmental workers 1,192 11.3% 11.4%
Not for profit companies 800 7.6% -5.2%
Unemployment rate
5.1%
-29.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Van Buren stands at 5.1%, 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 Van Buren

How people get around in Van Buren

In Van Buren, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,577 93.6% 4.4%
Bicycle 38 0.4% 26.7%
Walk 161 1.6% 4.5%
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 Van Buren by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72956 34,546 13,475 $62,988 $77,390

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FAQs about Van Buren demographics 

What is the total population of Van Buren?

Van Buren has a total population of 23,763 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Van Buren?

The gender ratio in Van Buren is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (11,372 residents)
  • 52.1% females (12,391 residents)

What is the median age in Van Buren?

The median age in Van Buren is 36.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Van Buren?

The age distribution in Van Buren is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.4% (4,846 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (2,763 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.6% (6,795 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22% (5,226 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.4% (4,133 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Van Buren?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Van Buren is as follows:
  • White: 72.8% (17,296 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (482 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (254 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (610 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.4% (3,426 residents)
  • Other: 7.1% (1,695 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.7% of the population in Van Buren.

How many housing units are there in Van Buren?

There are 9,862 housing units in Van Buren, reflecting a +3.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Van Buren has a total of 9,149 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Van Buren?

Van Buren has a median household income of $61,149, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Van Buren?

The employment rate is 94.9% in Van Buren, with a workforce of 10,558 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.7% (7,461 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.3% (3,097 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (1,072 residents)
  • Private companies: 71% (7,494 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.3% (1,192 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.6% (800 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