Sebastian County Public RecordsArkansas

Sebastian County, AR, reported a crime rate of 41.43 per 1,000 residents in 2023, notably higher than the national average. Violent crime accounted for 5.85 per 1,000, with property crimes at 35.58 per 1,000. The Sheriff’s Office and local police actively report and address incidents, primarily in Fort Smith, utilizing public safety alerts and online crime maps. Although efforts in community policing have reduced some types of crime, property crimes such as theft and burglary remain concerns. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities to improve county safety.

Sebastian County, AR, boasts 43 public schools, including 8 high schools. About 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 22% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school rating is 5/10 (GreatSchools). School safety initiatives include resource officers in most high schools. Programs such as Advanced Placement, Career & Technical Education, and adult literacy classes support diverse learning needs. The Fort Smith School District, the largest in the county, emphasizes college readiness and vocational skills through specialized tracks and partnerships with local colleges.

Sebastian County, AR, has an employment rate of approximately 58.5%. Major industries include Manufacturing (16.2%), Health Care & Social Assistance (16.1%), and Retail Trade (12.5%). The leading occupation types are Office & Administrative Support (14%), Sales (10%), and Production (10%). Around 87% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 19.6 minutes. Most residents work within the county, particularly in the Fort Smith area, which serves as the county’s economic hub.

Sebastian County, AR, has a homeownership rate of about 61%, with median home values around $151,000 as of 2023. The median rent is approximately $860. The housing market sees modest annual appreciation, roughly 3-4%. Predominant housing types include single-family homes, apartments, and some townhouses, especially in Fort Smith and Greenwood neighborhoods. Property taxes average 0.6% of home value, significantly below the national average. Neighborhoods vary from historic districts in Fort Smith to suburban styles in Barling and Greenwood, offering diverse choices for buyers and renters.

Sebastian County, AR had approximately 67,000 registered voters in 2022. Elections include federal, state, county, and municipal contests, with about 51% turnout in recent general elections. Polling locations number around 30, including Fort Smith and Greenwood. The county clerk administers elections, ensuring compliance and security. In the 2020 presidential election, Republican candidates received about 65% of the vote, Democrats 32%. Main issues include economic development and public safety. The two major parties—Republican and Democrat—dominate, though Libertarians also participate. Voter registration is nonpartisan and available year-round at the county courthouse and online.

Sebastian County, Arkansas, had an estimated population of 127,799 in 2023. The median age is about 37.9 years, with 50.4% female and 49.6% male residents. Racially, approximately 73% are White, 6.8% Black or African American, 8.7% Hispanic/Latino, 4.7% Asian, and 6.8% identifying as two or more races or other. The population under 18 makes up 24%, while those 65 and older account for 17%.