Polk County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Polk County, Arkansas, had a population of approximately 19,223. The racial composition was roughly 85.6% White, 0.6% Black or African American, 1.1% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 8.7% Hispanic or Latino. The median household income was around $38,805, and the poverty rate was about 19.9%. The county covers an area of 862 square miles.

Polk County, AR, housing statistics indicate a median home value of approximately $125,000. The homeownership rate is around 75%, with a median rent of about $650 per month. The area sees a relatively low vacancy rate of around 10%. Homes in Polk County typically have 2-3 bedrooms. The year-over-year home value appreciation rate is approximately 3%. Housing affordability remains favorable compared to national averages, contributing to the area's appeal for residents.

Polk County, AR, has its elections overseen by the Polk County Election Commission. Key races typically include local positions such as County Judge, Sheriff, and Justices of the Peace. In the most recent cycle, turnout numbers are usually reported by precincts.

Key candidates often include:

• County Judge: Name of major candidates
• Sheriff: Name of major candidates
• Justices of the Peace: Multiple candidates across various districts

For precise numerical values and the latest candidates, voters should refer to the Polk County Clerk's office or official county election resources. These sources provide up-to-date information on voter turnout, individual candidate totals, and election results.

As of the latest available data, roughly 81% of Polk County, AR residents aged 25 and older hold at least a high school diploma, compared to the national average of 88% and the Arkansas state average of 86%. Around 15% of the county's population has attained a bachelor’s degree or higher, while nationally, this figure stands at approximately 33%, and statewide at around 24%. This indicates that Polk County has lower educational attainment levels compared to both the national and state averages.

Polk County, AR, has a varied employment landscape. Key figures include an unemployment rate of around 5.6% as of 2023. The labor force participation rate is roughly 57%. Leading industries in Polk County are healthcare, manufacturing, retail trade, and education.

Healthcare and social assistance comprise about 20% of local employment, significantly higher than the national average of 14%. Manufacturing, at around 15%, also surpasses the national average of 8.5%. Retail trade closely aligns with national figures, at 11% locally versus 10% nationally. Education services employ roughly 10% of the workforce, similar to state and national levels.

Compared to Arkansas overall, Polk County shows stronger manufacturing employment but similar healthcare and retail sectors. Nationally, the county has higher employment in manufacturing and healthcare but less in professional services and tech sectors.

As of the latest data, Polk County, AR has a median household income of approximately $39,500. This figure is significantly lower than the national median household income of around $68,700 and the Arkansas state median of about $47,600. The disparity highlights a substantial economic gap between Polk County residents and those at the state and national levels.

Such income disparities may reflect broader socioeconomic challenges within the county, including employment opportunities and educational attainment.

As of the most recent available data, Polk County, Arkansas, has a relatively lower crime rate compared to national averages. The crime rate includes various categories of crimes reported annually. Below is a table summarizing some types of crimes and their corresponding rates:

Note: These values are approximations based on the most recent data available and may vary with new reports and over time. For the most accurate and current information, please refer to local law enforcement sources or crime database websites.