Desha, AR
Population 908 · Arkansas
About Desha, AR
Desha is a small community located in Arkansas with a population of 908 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $77,768 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.7 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 Desha features a median home value of $143,300, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Desha one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $702, 40% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 471 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (346 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (59 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Desha shows an unemployment rate of 2.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 11.1%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Desha have an average one-way commute time of 48.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
11.7% of Desha 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 8.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Desha, AR
Compared to national averages, Desha has a median household income of $77,768 (3% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $143,300, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $702 is 40% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Desha's income is 49% above the state average of $52,241, and home values are 14% above the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Desha, AR?
Desha offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,768, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $143,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $702/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.4%, and a low poverty rate of 11.1%, better than the national average.
Desha has a population of 908 with a median age of 51.7 years. Compare Desha with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Desha
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
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 Desha With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Desha
What is the population of Desha, AR?
The population of Desha, AR is 908 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 Desha?
The median household income in Desha, AR is $77,768 per year, which is 3% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Desha?
The median home value in Desha, AR is $143,300, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Desha?
The median monthly rent in Desha, AR is $702, which is 40% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Desha?
The unemployment rate in Desha, AR is 2.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Desha, AR a good place to live?
Desha offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 908 and a median age of 51.7, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Desha, AR?
11.7% of residents in Desha 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 Desha?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Desha, AR: median home value is $143,300 (41% below national), median rent is $702/month, and median household income is $77,768. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Desha?
The poverty rate in Desha, AR is 11.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Desha, AR?
Desha's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 8.7% of residents are foreign-born.