County Crime & Safety

In Clark County, Arkansas, the crime rate is below the national average, with recent statistics showing a total crime rate of about 1,350 incidents per 100,000 residents. Violent crime remains low, at approximately 220 cases per 100,000, while property crime accounts for the majority at around 1,130 per 100,000. The Clark County Sheriff's Office actively encourages prompt crime reporting, contributing to improved local safety and effective law enforcement response.

Education, Employment and Housing

Clark County, AR, has 11 public schools serving around 3,600 students, including two high schools. Approximately 85% of residents hold a high school diploma, while 22% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county's average school rating is 6/10, reflecting moderate academic performance. Adult education programs are available through the College of the Ouachitas. School districts emphasize safety, with security measures and anti-bullying initiatives in place. Additionally, Clark County schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career and technical education to support diverse student interests and future success.

Clark County, AR, has an employment rate of approximately 53.2%, with major industries including education (17%), manufacturing (15%), and health care (14%). The largest occupational groups are management, business, and science (28%), followed by production and transportation (22%). Over 81% of commuters drive alone, with an average commute time of about 21 minutes. Key employment centers are Arkadelphia and Gurdon, with many residents working locally or in neighboring Hot Spring County.

Clark County, AR, has a homeownership rate of around 63%, with median home values near $110,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $730. The housing market has shown steady but modest growth, with property values increasing about 4% year-over-year. Most homes are single-family dwellings, though small apartment complexes and mobile homes are present. Popular neighborhoods include Arkadelphia and Gurdon. Property tax rates are relatively low, averaging 0.6% of assessed value, making homeownership more affordable compared to national averages.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Clark County, Arkansas has a population of 21,446. The median age is 35.8 years, with 20% under 18 and 17% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution is approximately 48% male and 52% female. Racially, the county is 69.6% White, 23.3% Black or African American, 1.4% Native American, 0.7% Asian, and 2.5% two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up 2.7% of the population.

Elections

Clark County, AR, had approximately 13,000 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in primary, general, and special elections, with recent turnout hovering around 45%. The county typically sets up 15 polling locations. In the 2020 Presidential race, 63% voted Republican, 35% Democrat. Key issues include education funding and infrastructure. Voter registration is managed by the County Clerk, and elections by a bipartisan Election Commission. Two main parties—Republican and Democratic—dominate local politics.