Hardy, AR
Population 853 · Arkansas
About Hardy, AR
Hardy is a small community located in Arkansas with a population of 853 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $33,500 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.8 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 Hardy features a median home value of $59,300, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Hardy one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $485, 58% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 783 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (307 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (127 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Hardy shows an unemployment rate of 6.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 25.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Hardy have an average one-way commute time of 32.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
9.2% of Hardy 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 1.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.9% of the population being foreign-born.
How Hardy Ranks in Arkansas
Cost of Living in Hardy, AR
Compared to national averages, Hardy has a median household income of $33,500 (55% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $59,300, which is 76% below the national median. Monthly rent at $485 is 58% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Hardy's income is 36% below the state average of $52,241, and home values are 53% below the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Hardy, AR?
Hardy offers affordable housing with a median home value of $59,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $485/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($33,500) that falls below the national average. However, Hardy’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Hardy has a population of 853 with a median age of 45.8 years. Compare Hardy with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Hardy
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coal Hill | 856 | $36,957 | $104,000 | Compare |
| Altus | 857 | $37,656 | $110,500 | Compare |
| Mammoth Spring | 871 | $30,800 | $99,400 | Compare |
| Norphlet | 834 | $51,250 | $109,100 | Compare |
| Diamond City | 831 | $42,083 | $96,100 | Compare |
| Magnet Cove | 818 | $0 | $154,600 | Compare |
| Magazine | 893 | $49,375 | $87,400 | Compare |
| Avoca | 811 | $64,167 | $195,700 | 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 Hardy With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Hardy
What is the population of Hardy, AR?
The population of Hardy, AR is 853 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 Hardy?
The median household income in Hardy, AR is $33,500 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Hardy?
The median home value in Hardy, AR is $59,300, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Hardy?
The median monthly rent in Hardy, AR is $485, which is 58% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Hardy?
The unemployment rate in Hardy, AR is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Hardy, AR a good place to live?
Hardy offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 853 and a median age of 45.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Hardy, AR?
9.2% of residents in Hardy 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 Hardy?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Hardy, AR: median home value is $59,300 (76% below national), median rent is $485/month, and median household income is $33,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Hardy?
The poverty rate in Hardy, AR is 25.9%, 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 Hardy, AR?
Hardy's population is 1.6% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.9% of residents are foreign-born.