Clay County Public RecordsArkansas

Clay County, Arkansas, has 7 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 78% of adults have a high school diploma, while 12% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school math and reading proficiency scores are around 47% and 46% respectively, slightly below state averages. School safety measures are in place, and districts offer vocational and special education programs. Adult education classes are available through local centers.

As of 2023, Clay County, AR, has an employment rate of approximately 54%, with a labor force of about 4,600 workers. The leading industries are manufacturing (21%), health care and social assistance (18%), and retail trade (13%). Most workers are employed in production, office/administrative, and sales occupations. The average commute time is 21 minutes, with over 80% driving alone to work. While most residents work within the county, around 28% commute to neighboring regions such as Greene and Craighead counties for employment opportunities.

In Clay County, AR, about 74% of homes are owner-occupied while 26% are renter-occupied. The median home value is around $85,000, with median rent at approximately $640/month. Property values have shown slight annual increases of about 3%. Housing types are mainly single-family homes and mobile homes, with some small apartment complexes. Key neighborhoods include Corning, Piggott, and Rector. Property tax rates average 0.52% of assessed value, among the lowest in Arkansas. The affordable market and quiet rural neighborhoods make the county attractive for both first-time buyers and renters.

Clay County, AR, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages, with a violent crime rate of 2.1 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 11.4 per 1,000 residents (2023). Local law enforcement agencies actively report and address incidents, contributing to a strong sense of safety. In 2023, the county reported 26 violent crimes and 142 property crimes. Public safety initiatives and community involvement continue to help maintain a secure environment for residents, with consistent crime monitoring and transparent statistics reporting systems in place.

As of the 2020 Census, Clay County, AR, had a population of approximately 14,552. The median age is about 44.9 years, reflecting an older population. Females make up 50.5%, while males are 49.5%. Racial composition is predominantly White (94.3%), with small percentages of Black or African American (1%), Hispanic or Latino (2%), and other races (2.7%). The county remains largely rural with limited ethnic diversity.

Clay County, Arkansas, had 10,032 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with key polling locations in Corning and Piggott. In the 2020 presidential election, 79% voted Republican, 19% Democrat. The Clay County Election Commission manages elections, addressing issues like ballot access and technology updates. The Republican and Democratic parties are active locally; third-party presence is minimal. Voter ID is required. In 2022, turnout was 53%. Major concerns include economic development and healthcare access.