Elections

Hot Spring County, Arkansas, had 20,708 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with the 2020 presidential vote split 72% Republican and 25% Democratic. Main polling locations include the Fairgrounds and Glen Rose School. Key issues include education and infrastructure. The County Clerk’s office administers elections, with Republican and Democratic parties both active, though the GOP dominates local offices. Turnout in recent elections averaged 55%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Hot Spring County, AR, hosts seven public schools, including three high schools, with a graduation rate of about 86%. Around 10% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are generally above the state average, with few major incidents reported. Average ACT scores hover near 19.6. The county offers adult education programs through the College of the Ouachitas, focusing on GED and skill advancement. Advanced educational programs and career pathways are available in some high schools, yet overall educational attainment remains below national levels.

As of 2022, Hot Spring County, AR, had an employment rate of about 51.4%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (20.7%), Manufacturing (15.3%), and Retail Trade (14.1%). Top occupations include Production (12.9%) and Office & Administrative Support (12.1%). Around 79.5% of employees commute by car, with a mean travel time of 25.9 minutes. Most workers are employed within the county, though a significant portion commutes to Garland and Pulaski Counties.

Hot Spring County, AR, has a homeownership rate of around 72%, with median home values at approximately $135,000 as of 2024. Typical monthly rent costs about $800. The housing market remains affordable, with slight value growth over recent years. Housing types largely include single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes. Key neighborhoods are Malvern, Rockport, and Perla. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.6% of a home's assessed value, making the area attractive for buyers and renters seeking affordability.

County Crime & Safety

Hot Spring County, Arkansas, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. According to recent statistics, the county’s violent crime rate stands at approximately 3.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime rates reach about 18.2 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement encourages prompt reporting, contributing to a steady clearance rate. Although crime has slightly declined in recent years, residents are advised to continue taking safety precautions. Overall, Hot Spring County's crime and safety rates reflect Arkansas's rural areas, balancing peace with occasional concerns.

Demographics

As of 2022, Hot Spring County, Arkansas, has approximately 33,000 residents. The median age is about 42 years, with 20% under 18 and around 19% aged 65 or older. The population is roughly 82% White, 13% Black or African American, 2% Hispanic or Latino, and small numbers of other races. Gender distribution is close to even, with 50.4% female and 49.6% male.