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

Total population
20,134
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,934/yr
-5.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,312
0.1% year-over-year change

Yell County population

How many people live in Yell County

Yell County is home to 20,134 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Yell County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
20,134
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
10,141
Female
49.6%
9,993
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,141 50.4% -1.0%
Female 9,993 49.6% 0.4%
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 Yell County is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.3% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
24.3%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
17.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,953 19.6% -1.1%
15 to 24 2,444 12.1% 0.1%
25 to 44 4,886 24.3% 2.2%
45 to 64 5,293 26.3% -2.6%
Over 65 3,558 17.7% 0.4%
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 Yell County, 88.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78.4% of locals are Caucasian, 1.5% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.6% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 11.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.1%
Non-citizens
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,846 88.6% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,222 6.1% 21.4%
Non-citizens 1,066 5.3% -3.8%
Racial breakdown
White
78.4%
Black or African American
1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
11.8%
Value Percent
White 15,775 78.4%
Black or African American 308 1.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 124 0.6%
Asian 281 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 20 0.1%
Two or more races 1,260 6.3%
Other 2,366 11.8%

Households in Yell County

A peek inside Yell County households

Yell County has 8,323 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 69.4% are families, while the remaining 30.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,323
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,545
Family households
5,778
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,545 30.6% 1.7%
Family households 5,778 69.4% 4.1%
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 Yell County

The housing landscape of Yell County

Yell County's housing consists of 9,312 units, with 72% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% 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 16.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,312
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,701 72%
1 unit, attached 165 1.8%
2 units 43 0.5%
3 or 4 units 223 2.4%
5 to 9 units 185 2%
10 to 19 units 228 2.4%
20 to 49 units 129 1.4%
50 or more units 48 0.5%
Mobile home 1,557 16.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 33 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
147
129.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Yell County

In Yell County, the median construction year is 1984. About 7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 649 7% 2.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 299 3.2% -20.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 421 4.5% -1.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,113 12% 9.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,631 17.5% -2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,391 14.9% -6.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,398 15% -0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,411 15.2% -7.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 852 9.2% 24.4%
Built in 2020 or later 147 1.6% 129.7%
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.

Yell County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,323 occupied housing units in Yell County, 67.6% are owner-occupied, while 32.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,323
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,701
Owner occupied
5,622
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,701 32.4% 3.2%
Owner occupied 5,622 67.6% 3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
10.6%
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.

Yell County housing costs

Housing costs in Yell County come to a median of $654 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $735.

Median housing costs per month
$654/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 Yell County
$735/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 Yell County

Yell County education at a glance

About 51.3% of the population in Yell County went to high school, while 20.3% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 10.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 996 6.5% 5.3%
High school diploma 7,851 51.3% -1.0%
College diploma 3,100 20.3% -3.2%
Associate degree 1,170 7.6% 7.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,581 10.3% 0.5%
Graduate degree 601 3.9% 3.1%
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 Yell County

How much people earn in Yell County

The average annual household income in Yell County was $69,272 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,934, reflecting a -5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Yell County
$69,272/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Yell County
$55,934/year
-5.0% year-over-year change

Yell County income by age

In Yell County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,520. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,097 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,856 in earnings. Overall, 84.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,750 -31.1%
25 - 44 $65,520 0.6%
45 - 64 $74,097 5.4%
Over 65 $40,856 -2.8%
Above poverty level
16,412
Below poverty level
3,005
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,412 84.5% -3.2%
Below poverty level 3,005 15.5% 16.8%

Employment in Yell County

Workforce and job types in Yell County

The job market in Yell County is powered by 9,006 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 58% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 42% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.1% run their own businesses, 65.9% are employed by private companies, and 14.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,006
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
5,221
Blue collar
3,785
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,221 58% 2.6%
Blue collar 3,785 42% 1.2%
Employer type
Self employees
13.1%
Private companies
65.9%
Governmental workers
14.6%
Not for profit companies
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,182 13.1% 5.2%
Private companies 5,936 65.9% -0.7%
Governmental workers 1,314 14.6% 5.5%
Not for profit companies 574 6.4% 18.8%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-0.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Yell County stands at 3.4%, 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 Yell County

How people get around in Yell County

In Yell County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.9% 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.

Commute time
22 min
-2.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,972 88.9% 1.6%
Motorcycle 21 0.2% 425.0%
Walk 104 1.2% 52.9%
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 Yell County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
72824 2,473 998 $78,628 $77,009
72827 78 51 $28,021 $35,663
72828 123 86 $0 $137,149
72833 3,620 1,263 $52,422 $66,167
72834 9,482 3,956 $63,131 $71,631
72838 203 85 $85,580 $98,985
72842 1,112 426 $49,000 $81,270
72853 2,002 905 $35,262 $52,187
72857 1,190 612 $44,907 $51,490
72860 269 107 $79,034 $87,500

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FAQs about Yell County demographics 

What is the total population of Yell County?

Yell County has a total population of 20,134 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Yell County?

The gender ratio in Yell County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (10,141 residents)
  • 49.6% females (9,993 residents)

What is the median age in Yell County?

The median age in Yell County is 39.3.

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

The age distribution in Yell County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (3,953 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (2,444 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.3% (4,886 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (5,293 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.7% (3,558 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Yell County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Yell County is as follows:
  • White: 78.4% (15,775 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.5% (308 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (124 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (281 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (20 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (1,260 residents)
  • Other: 11.8% (2,366 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.6% of the population in Yell County.

How many housing units are there in Yell County?

There are 9,312 housing units in Yell 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 Yell County and what is the average household size?

Yell County has a total of 8,323 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Yell County?

Yell County has a median household income of $55,934, representing a -5.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Yell County, with a workforce of 9,006 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 58% (5,221 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 42% (3,785 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.1% (1,182 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.9% (5,936 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.6% (1,314 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.4% (574 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