Alma, AR
Population 5,879 · Arkansas
About Alma, AR
Alma is a small town located in Arkansas with a population of 5,879 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $58,320 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 27.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Alma features a median home value of $197,200, which is 19% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Alma in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $992, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,207 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (916 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (1,094 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Alma shows an unemployment rate of 8.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 25.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Alma have an average one-way commute time of 25.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.6% of Alma residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 3.1% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Alma, AR
Compared to national averages, Alma has a median household income of $58,320 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $197,200, which is 19% below the national median. Monthly rent at $992 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Alma's income is 12% above the state average of $52,241, and home values are 57% above the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Alma, AR?
Alma offers affordable housing with a median home value of $197,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $992/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,320) that falls below the national average. However, Alma’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Alma has a population of 5,879 with a median age of 27.5 years. Compare Alma with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Alma
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenbrier | 5,875 | $59,099 | $171,100 | Compare |
| Cave Springs | 5,778 | $147,917 | $431,300 | Compare |
| Tontitown | 5,739 | $80,987 | $394,200 | Compare |
| Berryville | 5,715 | $39,548 | $153,500 | Compare |
| De Queen | 6,077 | $50,979 | $108,500 | Compare |
| Mena | 5,605 | $50,875 | $114,200 | Compare |
| White Hall | 5,520 | $84,304 | $207,100 | Compare |
| Walnut Ridge | 5,440 | $47,612 | $104,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Arkansas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Alma With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Alma
What is the population of Alma, AR?
The population of Alma, AR is 5,879 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Arkansas.
What is the median household income in Alma?
The median household income in Alma, AR is $58,320 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Alma?
The median home value in Alma, AR is $197,200, which is 19% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Alma?
The median monthly rent in Alma, AR is $992, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Alma?
The unemployment rate in Alma, AR is 8.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Alma, AR a good place to live?
Alma offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,879 and a median age of 27.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Alma, AR?
18.6% of residents in Alma aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Alma?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Alma, AR: median home value is $197,200 (19% below national), median rent is $992/month, and median household income is $58,320. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Alma?
The poverty rate in Alma, AR is 25.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Alma, AR?
Alma's population is 3.1% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 4.4% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.