Elections

Arkansas County, AR, has approximately 10,600 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts primary, general, and runoff elections, with recent turnout for the 2022 general election at 48%. Major parties include Republican and Democratic. Key issues include agriculture policy and economic growth. Polling locations include the DeWitt and Stuttgart courthouses. Election administration is overseen by the Arkansas County Election Commission, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws. In the 2020 presidential election, results favored Republicans with 62% of the vote, compared to 36% for Democrats.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Arkansas County, AR had a population of 17,287. The median age was about 41 years. The population was 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the county was 68% White, 27% Black or African American, 2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Asian, and 2.7% from two or more races. This reflects a diverse but predominantly White community with a significant Black or African American presence.

Education, Employment and Housing

Arkansas County, AR has about 11 public schools, including 3 high schools, serving nearly 2,700 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 87%, while around 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores in public schools lag slightly below the Arkansas state average. Adult education programs are available through local community centers. Schools prioritize safety with anti-bullying policies and security measures. Educational offerings include vocational training and STEM programs designed to enhance career readiness and post-secondary opportunities, though resources are more limited compared to urban areas.

As of 2022, Arkansas County, AR has an employment rate of approximately 55.4%. Key employment sectors include agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting (18.8%), health care & social assistance (13.3%), and retail trade (10.2%). Major occupation types are production (17.6%), management (15.4%), and office/administrative support (12.5%). Around 86% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21.4 minutes. The majority work within the county, while others commute to neighboring Jefferson and Pulaski counties for employment opportunities.

Arkansas County, AR, has a homeownership rate of roughly 68%, with a median home value around $97,000. Rental occupancy is about 32%, with median rents near $700 per month. The local housing market remains steady with slight annual appreciation near 2%. Most homes are single-family, though some multi-unit properties exist, especially in Stuttgart and DeWitt neighborhoods. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.6% of assessed home value. The county combines rural areas with small towns, offering affordable housing options for both buyers and renters.

County Crime & Safety

Arkansas County, AR, reported a total crime rate of approximately 2,380 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, with violent crimes accounting for around 340 per 100,000 and property crimes at about 2,040 per 100,000. The county saw increases in theft and burglary, while violent crime rates remained stable compared to previous years. Law enforcement agencies encourage residents to report crimes promptly via 911 or the local sheriff’s office, aiming to improve public safety. The overall crime rate in Arkansas County remains slightly above the state average, highlighting the need for continued community awareness and law enforcement efforts.