West Helena, AR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,575
-7.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$38,294/yr
13.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,329
-3.2% year-over-year change

West Helena population

How many people live in West Helena

West Helena is home to 6,575 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of West Helena locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
6,575
-7.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
3,171
Female
51.8%
3,404
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,171 48.2% -6.8%
Female 3,404 51.8% -7.3%
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 West Helena is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 27.6% are children under 15, then 12.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
27.6%
15 to 24
12.7%
25 to 44
23%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,812 27.6% -5.8%
15 to 24 837 12.7% -11.7%
25 to 44 1,516 23% -3.9%
45 to 64 1,509 23% -8.8%
Over 65 902 13.7% -7.4%
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 West Helena, 99.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.4%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,548 99.6% -7.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 27 0.4% 42.1%
Racial breakdown
White
29.8%
Black or African American
65.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 1,962 29.8%
Black or African American 4,323 65.8%
Two or more races 290 4.4%

Households in West Helena

A peek inside West Helena households

West Helena has 2,414 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,414
-7.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
914
Family households
1,501
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 914 37.9% 2.9%
Family households 1,501 62.2% -12.1%
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 West Helena

The housing landscape of West Helena

West Helena's housing consists of 3,329 units, with 78% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.7% 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 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,329
-3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,597 78%
1 unit, attached 56 1.7%
2 units 304 9.1%
3 or 4 units 55 1.6%
5 to 9 units 70 2.1%
10 to 19 units 54 1.6%
20 to 49 units 20 0.6%
50 or more units 11 0.3%
Mobile home 162 4.9%
Homes built since 2020
17
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in West Helena

In West Helena, the median construction year is 1972. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 0.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 146 4.4% 62.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 130 3.9% -13.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 177 5.3% 0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 985 29.6% -6.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 933 28% 12.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 313 9.4% -21.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 395 11.9% -4.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 222 6.7% -30.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12 0.4% -14.3%
Built in 2020 or later 17 0.5% N/A
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.

West Helena occupancy rates

Out of the 2,414 occupied housing units in West Helena, 52.4% are owner-occupied, while 47.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 27.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,414
-7.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,149
Owner occupied
1,266
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,149 47.6% 2.1%
Owner occupied 1,266 52.4% -13.9%
Unoccupied housing units
27.5%
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.

West Helena housing costs

Housing costs in West Helena come to a median of $637 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $782.

Median housing costs per month
$637/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 West Helena
$782/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 West Helena

West Helena education at a glance

About 45.4% of the population in West Helena went to high school, while 20.4% pursued college studies. Another 13.6% earned an associate degree and 8.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 328 7.4% 14.7%
High school diploma 2,011 45.4% -3.5%
College diploma 905 20.4% -12.5%
Associate degree 603 13.6% -24.1%
Bachelor's degree 381 8.6% -15.0%
Graduate degree 199 4.5% 59.2%
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 West Helena

How much people earn in West Helena

The average annual household income in West Helena was $50,834 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $38,294, reflecting a +13.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in West Helena
$50,834/year
2.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in West Helena
$38,294/year
13.6% year-over-year change

West Helena income by age

In West Helena, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $45,605. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,667 overall. Overall, 70.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $45,605 69.6%
45 - 64 $51,667 -5.1%
Over 65 $32,153 7.1%
Above poverty level
4,504
Below poverty level
1,922
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,504 70.1% -5.7%
Below poverty level 1,922 29.9% -10.8%

Employment in West Helena

Workforce and job types in West Helena

73.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.9% run their own businesses, 69.7% are employed by private companies, and 17.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
1,623
Blue collar
581
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,623 73.6% -3.0%
Blue collar 581 26.4% -6.4%
Employer type
Self employees
5.9%
Private companies
69.7%
Governmental workers
17.4%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 130 5.9% 13.0%
Private companies 1,537 69.7% -13.0%
Governmental workers 384 17.4% 15.3%
Not for profit companies 154 7% 92.5%

Transportation in West Helena

How people get around in West Helena

Commuting methods vary: 92.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5% 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 1,907 92.8% -11.4%
Taxicab 37 1.8% 27.6%
Bicycle 8 0.4% N/A
Walk 102 5% 277.8%
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 West Helena by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72390 6,577 2,415 $38,294 $50,886

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FAQs about West Helena demographics 

What is the total population of West Helena?

West Helena has a total population of 6,575 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 -7.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in West Helena?

The gender ratio in West Helena is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (3,171 residents)
  • 51.8% females (3,404 residents)

What is the median age in West Helena?

The median age in West Helena is 32.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in West Helena?

The age distribution in West Helena is as follows:
  • Under 15: 27.6% (1,812 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.7% (837 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23% (1,516 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (1,509 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.7% (902 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of West Helena?

The racial and ethnic makeup of West Helena is as follows:
  • White: 29.8% (1,962 residents)
  • Black or African American: 65.8% (4,323 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% ( residents)
  • Asian: 0% ( residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% ( residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (290 residents)
  • Other: 0% ( residents)

What percentage of the population in West Helena are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.6% of the population in West Helena.

How many housing units are there in West Helena?

There are 3,329 housing units in West Helena, reflecting a -3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in West Helena and what is the average household size?

West Helena has a total of 2,414 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in West Helena?

West Helena has a median household income of $38,294, representing a +13.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for West Helena?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.6% (1,623 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.4% (581 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.9% (130 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.7% (1,537 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.4% (384 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (154 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