Van Buren County Public RecordsArkansas

Van Buren County, AR, had approximately 11,500 registered voters in 2022. Administered by the County Clerk’s office, elections include federal, state, and local races, plus ballot issues. In the 2020 presidential election, Republican candidates received about 77% of the vote, Democrats 21%, and others 2%. Polling sites include Clinton, Fairfield Bay, and Shirley. Voters choose between party primaries (mainly Republican and Democratic), and key issues often include local taxes and infrastructure. The county’s election commission oversees processes, ensuring compliance with Arkansas state laws and promoting fair and accessible voting for all eligible residents.

Van Buren County, AR, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to national and state averages. In 2023, the violent crime rate was approximately 3.2 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stood at 21.4 per 1,000. The county reported 22 violent crimes and 146 property crimes, according to the Arkansas Department of Public Safety. Law enforcement emphasizes community policing and regular reporting, with most crimes involving theft or burglary. Overall, while not crime-free, Van Buren County remains relatively safe with ongoing efforts to reduce incidents and enhance residents’ security.

As of the 2020 Census, Van Buren County, AR, had a population of 15,796. The median age is 51.2 years, reflecting an older demographic. Approximately 50.1% of residents are female and 49.9% male. The county is predominantly White (92.8%), with Black or African American (2.4%), two or more races (3.4%), and Hispanic or Latino (2.3%). These figures highlight a largely older, White population with relatively small minority communities.

Van Buren County, AR has 9 public schools, including 2 high schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 87%, but only about 15% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average. Average standardized test scores are near state averages, with reading proficiency at 37% and math at 32%. School safety measures include on-site officers and routine drills. Educational programs focus on career and technical education, with limited advanced placement courses. Adult education centers provide GED and job training services for over 250 adults annually.

As of 2022, Van Buren County, AR, had an employment rate of approximately 51.6% among working-age adults. Major industries include health care & social assistance (21%), retail trade (13%), and construction (11%). Common occupations are in office & administrative support (14%) and sales (11%). About 79.4% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 26 minutes; 78% work within the county, while 22% commute to neighboring areas. Unemployment hovered around 4.5% in 2022.

Van Buren County, AR, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $120,000 in 2023. The median gross rent is approximately $650 per month. Housing consists mostly of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and lakefront properties, especially near Fairfield Bay and Clinton. Recent property value trends show moderate annual growth of 3-4%. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.6% of assessed value. The area features quiet, rural neighborhoods, popular for retirees, with access to Greers Ferry Lake and scenic Ozark landscapes.