Walnut Ridge, AR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,434
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,027/yr
-5.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,323
-3.0% year-over-year change

Walnut Ridge population

How many people live in Walnut Ridge

Walnut Ridge is home to 5,434 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Walnut Ridge locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
5,434
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
2,658
Female
51.1%
2,776
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,658 48.9% -3.1%
Female 2,776 51.1% 2.9%
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 Walnut Ridge is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.9% are children under 15, then 21.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.8% of the population, while another 22.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.9%
15 to 24
21.4%
25 to 44
21.8%
45 to 64
22.1%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 863 15.9% -9.0%
15 to 24 1,163 21.4% 12.2%
25 to 44 1,185 21.8% -0.1%
45 to 64 1,203 22.1% -6.9%
Over 65 1,020 18.8% 4.4%
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 Walnut Ridge, 98.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1.9% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.4%
Non-citizens
1.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,351 98.5% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 24 0.4% -7.7%
Non-citizens 59 1.1% 13.5%
Racial breakdown
White
91.9%
Black or African American
1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 4,992 91.9%
Black or African American 105 1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 5 0.1%
Asian 9 0.2%
Two or more races 306 5.6%
Other 17 0.3%

Households in Walnut Ridge

A peek inside Walnut Ridge households

Walnut Ridge has 2,089 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.7% are families, while the remaining 34.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,089
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
716
Family households
1,373
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 716 34.3% -7.2%
Family households 1,373 65.7% 7.4%
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 Walnut Ridge

The housing landscape of Walnut Ridge

Walnut Ridge's housing consists of 2,323 units, with 79.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 0.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,323
-3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,844 79.4%
1 unit, attached 22 1%
2 units 204 8.8%
3 or 4 units 124 5.3%
5 to 9 units 31 1.3%
10 to 19 units 41 1.8%
20 to 49 units 26 1.1%
50 or more units 23 1%
Mobile home 8 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
13
-7.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Walnut Ridge

In Walnut Ridge, the median construction year is 1977. About 4.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 113 4.9% -25.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 117 5% 4.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 237 10.2% -15.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 389 16.8% 17.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 427 18.4% -21.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 424 18.2% -4.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 255 11% -7.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 200 8.6% 19.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 148 6.4% 87.3%
Built in 2020 or later 13 0.6% -7.1%
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.

Walnut Ridge occupancy rates

Out of the 2,089 occupied housing units in Walnut Ridge, 57.3% are owner-occupied, while 42.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,089
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
892
Owner occupied
1,197
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 892 42.7% 7.3%
Owner occupied 1,197 57.3% -1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Walnut Ridge housing costs

Housing costs in Walnut Ridge come to a median of $746 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $739.

Median housing costs per month
$746/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 Walnut Ridge
$739/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 Walnut Ridge

Walnut Ridge education at a glance

About 37.5% of the population in Walnut Ridge went to high school, while 29.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 11.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 160 3.7% -11.6%
High school diploma 1,623 37.5% -4.2%
College diploma 1,261 29.2% -3.6%
Associate degree 411 9.5% 43.7%
Bachelor's degree 510 11.8% 7.8%
Graduate degree 360 8.3% 10.1%
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 Walnut Ridge

How much people earn in Walnut Ridge

The average annual household income in Walnut Ridge was $64,653 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 $45,027, reflecting a -5.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Walnut Ridge
$64,653/year
-3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Walnut Ridge
$45,027/year
-5.4% year-over-year change

Walnut Ridge income by age

In Walnut Ridge, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $53,214. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,505 overall. Overall, 74.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $53,214 -13.8%
45 - 64 $58,505 1.9%
Over 65 $25,152 -24.1%
Above poverty level
3,597
Below poverty level
1,209
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,597 74.8% -4.7%
Below poverty level 1,209 25.2% 17.8%

Average renter income in Walnut Ridge

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Walnut Ridge, their median household income was $34,762 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 25.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,762
Rent-to-income ratio
25.5%
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 Walnut Ridge

Workforce and job types in Walnut Ridge

The job market in Walnut Ridge is powered by 2,350 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 58.8% are employed by private companies, and 19.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,350
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
1,700
Blue collar
650
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,700 72.3% 10.8%
Blue collar 650 27.7% -12.5%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
58.8%
Governmental workers
19.5%
Not for profit companies
11.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 249 10.6% 12.2%
Private companies 1,381 58.8% -3.0%
Governmental workers 459 19.5% 10.6%
Not for profit companies 261 11.1% 19.7%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
-3.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Walnut Ridge stands at 5%, 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 Walnut Ridge

How people get around in Walnut Ridge

Commuting methods vary: 95.3% 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 2,217 95.3% 3.3%
Bus or trolleybus 19 0.8% N/A
Bicycle 9 0.4% 12.5%
Walk 28 1.2% -44.0%
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 Walnut Ridge by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72476 7,334 2,845 $42,181 $65,841

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FAQs about Walnut Ridge demographics 

What is the total population of Walnut Ridge?

Walnut Ridge has a total population of 5,434 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 Walnut Ridge?

The gender ratio in Walnut Ridge is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (2,658 residents)
  • 51.1% females (2,776 residents)

What is the median age in Walnut Ridge?

The median age in Walnut Ridge is 38.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Walnut Ridge?

The age distribution in Walnut Ridge is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.9% (863 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 21.4% (1,163 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.8% (1,185 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.1% (1,203 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (1,020 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Walnut Ridge?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Walnut Ridge is as follows:
  • White: 91.9% (4,992 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.9% (105 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (9 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (306 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (17 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.5% of the population in Walnut Ridge.

How many housing units are there in Walnut Ridge?

There are 2,323 housing units in Walnut Ridge, reflecting a -3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Walnut Ridge has a total of 2,089 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Walnut Ridge?

Walnut Ridge has a median household income of $45,027, representing a -5.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Walnut Ridge?

The employment rate is 95% in Walnut Ridge, with a workforce of 2,350 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.3% (1,700 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.7% (650 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (249 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.8% (1,381 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.5% (459 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.1% (261 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