Polk County Public RecordsArkansas

As of the 2020 Census, Polk County, Arkansas, had a population of approximately 19,221. The median age was 43.7 years, with about 50.7% male and 49.3% female. The racial makeup was predominantly White (88.1%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (5.7%), two or more races (4.3%), and smaller percentages of Black or African American (0.5%), Native American (1.1%), and Asian (0.2%).

Polk County, Arkansas, has approximately 12,300 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in local, state, and national elections, including primaries, generals, and special elections. In the 2020 presidential race, over 75% voted Republican. Polling locations include the Polk County Office Complex in Mena and several community centers. Common issues include infrastructure and education. The County Clerk’s Office administrates elections, with the Republican and Democratic parties most active. Recent turnout in general elections hovers around 58%. For 2024, about nine polling sites will open on Election Day across the county.

Polk County, AR has 9 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving approximately 2,500 students. High school graduation rates are around 87%, but only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are slightly below state averages. School safety measures are emphasized, with zero-tolerance policies and security systems in place. Adult education is supported by institutions like the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain, which offers technical and associate degree programs. Special education and career-readiness programs are also available in the local district.

As of 2023, Polk County, AR has an employment rate of approximately 54%, with around 7,300 residents employed. The leading industries are manufacturing (23%), health care & social assistance (16%), and retail trade (13%). Major occupation types include production (18%), office & administrative support (15%), and sales (11%). About 81% of workers commute by car, averaging a 22-minute commute. Most employed residents work within Polk County, while some commute to neighboring Sevier and Howard counties.

Polk County, AR, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $124,000 in 2023. Monthly rents average $650. The county features mainly single-family homes, with some mobile homes and small apartment complexes, spread across neighborhoods like Mena and Cove. Property values have increased by approximately 8% since 2020, reflecting a steady market. Annual property taxes in Polk County average $500–$900, among the lowest in Arkansas, making it affordable for residents seeking rural living.

Polk County, AR, has a crime rate below the national average, with a total crime rate of approximately 21.8 incidents per 1,000 residents in 2023. Violent crime accounts for 2.1 per 1,000, while property crime stands at 19.7 per 1,000 residents. Police reports indicate most incidents involve theft or burglary; violent crimes remain rare. Community policing and neighborhood watch programs contribute to improved safety. Regular reporting and data collection help maintain transparency and inform local safety initiatives.