Chidester, AR
Population 347 · Arkansas
About Chidester, AR
Chidester is a small community located in Arkansas with a population of 347 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $21,641 per year, which is 71% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 52 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 Chidester features a median home value of $73,400, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Chidester one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $389, 67% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 169 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (83 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (36 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Chidester shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 48.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Chidester have an average one-way commute time of 29.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.3% of Chidester 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 1.2% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Chidester Ranks in Arkansas
Cost of Living in Chidester, AR
Compared to national averages, Chidester has a median household income of $21,641 (71% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $73,400, which is 70% below the national median. Monthly rent at $389 is 67% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Chidester's income is 59% below the state average of $52,241, and home values are 41% below the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Chidester, AR?
Chidester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $73,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $389/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($21,641) that falls below the national average. However, Chidester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chidester has a population of 347 with a median age of 52 years. Compare Chidester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
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Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in Arkansas
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Chidester
What is the population of Chidester, AR?
The population of Chidester, AR is 347 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Arkansas.
What is the median household income in Chidester?
The median household income in Chidester, AR is $21,641 per year, which is 71% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Chidester?
The median home value in Chidester, AR is $73,400, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Chidester?
The median monthly rent in Chidester, AR is $389, which is 67% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Chidester?
The unemployment rate in Chidester, AR is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Chidester, AR a good place to live?
Chidester offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 347 and a median age of 52, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Chidester, AR?
6.3% of residents in Chidester 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 Chidester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Chidester, AR: median home value is $73,400 (70% below national), median rent is $389/month, and median household income is $21,641. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Chidester?
The poverty rate in Chidester, AR is 48.3%, 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 Chidester, AR?
Chidester's population is 1.2% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 70.0% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.