Elections

Franklin County, AR has around 9,600 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with the Franklin County Courthouse and branch libraries serving as main polling locations. In the 2020 general election, 66% voter turnout was reported, with Republican candidates receiving 71% of the county vote. The Election Commission oversees administration, ensuring compliance with state laws. Major issues include local school funding and road improvements. Voters predominantly register as Republican or unaffiliated; Democrats make up about 15% of registrations. Early and absentee voting options are available.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Franklin County, Arkansas, had a population of 17,097. The median age was 41.3 years, with 49.6% male and 50.4% female. The racial makeup was 91.1% White, 1.5% Black or African American, 0.8% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 4.2% identifying as two or more races; 4.3% were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

County Crime & Safety

Franklin County, AR, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with a violent crime rate of approximately 2.5 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 11.7 per 1,000. In 2022, local law enforcement reported around 42 violent crimes and 196 property crimes. The majority of incidents involve theft and burglary, while violent offenses remain rare. Community initiatives and active police presence contribute to overall safety, making Franklin County one of the safer regions in Arkansas according to recent state and FBI crime statistics.

Education, Employment and Housing

Franklin County, AR, serves about 3,000 K-12 students across 7 public schools, including Ozark and Charleston high schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 89%, while around 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings fall near 6/10. Safety is a priority, with most schools implementing resource officers and security protocols. Adult education is available through local programs like Franklin County Adult Education Center, which enrolls about 100 adults annually, offering GED preparation and workforce skills courses. Education programs include AP classes, dual-enrollment, and career-technical training.

As of 2022, Franklin County, AR, had an employment rate of approximately 55%. Major industries include manufacturing (25%), healthcare and social assistance (14%), and retail trade (12%). Common occupation types are production (18%), office and administrative support (14%), and sales (11%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. The majority work within the county, though roughly 36% commute to neighboring counties such as Sebastian and Crawford for employment.

Franklin County, AR, has a homeownership rate of about 73%, with median home values near $129,000 and median gross rents around $650. The housing market remains stable, with modest annual appreciation around 2–3%. Most homes are single-family houses, though some apartments and mobile homes exist. Popular neighborhoods include Altus and Ozark. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.5% of home value, making the county affordable.