Barling, AR
Population 4,919 · Arkansas
About Barling, AR
Barling is a small town located in Arkansas with a population of 4,919 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,009 per year, which is 31% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 44.7 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Barling features a median home value of $125,200, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Barling one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $893, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,599 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (1,663 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (601 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Barling shows an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 16.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Barling have an average one-way commute time of 18.6 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
20.5% of Barling 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 9.9% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 6.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Barling, AR
Compared to national averages, Barling has a median household income of $52,009 (31% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $125,200, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $893 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Barling's income is 0% below the state average of $52,241, and home values are 0% below the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Barling, AR?
Barling offers affordable housing with a median home value of $125,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $893/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,009) that falls below the national average. However, Barling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Barling has a population of 4,919 with a median age of 44.7 years. Compare Barling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Barling
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sheridan | 5,063 | $61,025 | $182,300 | Compare |
| Cherokee Village | 5,078 | $35,244 | $86,800 | Compare |
| Crossett | 4,719 | $42,792 | $101,200 | Compare |
| Shannon Hills | 4,557 | $69,413 | $175,200 | Compare |
| Dardanelle | 4,517 | $43,287 | $123,200 | Compare |
| Warren | 5,342 | $35,064 | $86,400 | Compare |
| Piney | 4,485 | $49,002 | $131,300 | Compare |
| Vilonia | 4,405 | $82,753 | $210,700 | 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 Barling With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Barling
What is the population of Barling, AR?
The population of Barling, AR is 4,919 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 Barling?
The median household income in Barling, AR is $52,009 per year, which is 31% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Barling?
The median home value in Barling, AR is $125,200, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Barling?
The median monthly rent in Barling, AR is $893, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Barling?
The unemployment rate in Barling, AR is 4.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Barling, AR a good place to live?
Barling offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,919 and a median age of 44.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Barling, AR?
20.5% of residents in Barling 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 Barling?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Barling, AR: median home value is $125,200 (49% below national), median rent is $893/month, and median household income is $52,009. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Barling?
The poverty rate in Barling, AR is 16.8%, 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 Barling, AR?
Barling's population is 9.9% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 2.2% two or more races. 6.9% of residents are foreign-born.