Lawrence County Public RecordsArkansas

Lawrence County, AR, has 8 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving approximately 1,500 students. About 85% of adults hold a high school diploma, while around 13% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools’ average test scores are slightly below the state average, with an ACT composite score around 18.5. Educational programs include vocational training and dual-credit opportunities. Adult education services are available through the local literacy council. School safety measures include regular drills and campus resource officers.

As of 2022, Lawrence County, AR has an employment rate of approximately 51.4%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (21.2%), Manufacturing (14.8%), and Retail Trade (11.4%). Major occupation types include Production (13.9%), Office & Administrative Support (12.3%), and Sales (8.6%). About 75% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25.7 minutes. Key employment locations include Walnut Ridge and Hoxie, with most residents working within the county or in nearby Greene and Craighead counties.

Lawrence County, AR has a homeownership rate of around 72%, above the state average, while about 28% of residents rent. The median home value is approximately $97,000, with property values increasing by about 5% year-over-year. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and duplexes. Neighborhoods such as Walnut Ridge and Hoxie are popular for families. Average property taxes are low, with a median annual payment around $500. Rental units have a median monthly rent of $600, making the area relatively affordable for both buyers and renters.

As of 2024, Lawrence County, Arkansas, has about 10,500 registered voters. Elections include federal, state, county, and local municipal races. In the 2020 presidential election, approximately 65% voted Republican and 32% Democrat. The county typically operates 8 polling locations, administered by the Lawrence County Election Commission. Key issues include infrastructure and agricultural policy. Voter registration is managed by the County Clerk’s office, with Republican and Democratic parties active locally. Recent turnout reached 58%. Early voting and absentee options are available to all registered voters.

As of the 2020 Census, Lawrence County, Arkansas, had a population of 16,216. The median age was about 42 years, indicating a relatively older population. Females comprised approximately 51.3% and males 48.7%. The racial and ethnic makeup was 93.7% White, 2.6% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, 0.6% Native American, and 2.1% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The county’s population density was low, reflecting its rural character.

Lawrence County, AR, records lower crime rates compared to national averages, with property crime at 13.7 and violent crime at 11.6 (U.S. average: property 35.4, violent 22.7). In 2023, about 45 crimes were reported, predominantly larceny and minor assaults. The sheriff's department encourages active crime reporting and neighborhood watch programs to maintain safety. Overall, Lawrence County is considered a safer rural area, benefiting from community vigilance and timely reporting, which helps it maintain low crime statistics.