Marvell, AR
Population 1,008 · Arkansas
About Marvell, AR
Marvell is a small town located in Arkansas with a population of 1,008 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,000 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Marvell features a median home value of $59,100, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Marvell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $691, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 526 total housing units, 49% are owner-occupied (197 units) and 51% are renter-occupied (207 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 Marvell shows an unemployment rate of 26.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 27.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marvell have an average one-way commute time of 23.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.4% of Marvell 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, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Marvell, AR
Compared to national averages, Marvell has a median household income of $49,000 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $59,100, which is 76% below the national median. Monthly rent at $691 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Marvell's income is 6% below the state average of $52,241, and home values are 53% below the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Marvell, AR?
Marvell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $59,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $691/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,000) that falls below the national average. However, Marvell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Marvell has a population of 1,008 with a median age of 40.3 years. Compare Marvell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Marvell
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genoa | 1,008 | $55,500 | $124,500 | Compare |
| Plumerville | 1,008 | $38,438 | $112,100 | Compare |
| Dyer | 996 | $69,792 | $211,900 | Compare |
| Horatio | 1,025 | $44,417 | $109,900 | Compare |
| Oppelo | 1,033 | $65,813 | $124,700 | Compare |
| Sulphur Springs | 1,035 | $34,353 | $114,900 | Compare |
| Ola | 977 | $40,250 | $66,700 | Compare |
| Oxford | 968 | $50,313 | $80,500 | 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 Marvell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Marvell
What is the population of Marvell, AR?
The population of Marvell, AR is 1,008 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 Marvell?
The median household income in Marvell, AR is $49,000 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marvell?
The median home value in Marvell, AR is $59,100, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Marvell?
The median monthly rent in Marvell, AR is $691, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marvell?
The unemployment rate in Marvell, AR is 26.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marvell, AR a good place to live?
Marvell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,008 and a median age of 40.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Marvell, AR?
18.4% of residents in Marvell 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 Marvell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Marvell, AR: median home value is $59,100 (76% below national), median rent is $691/month, and median household income is $49,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marvell?
The poverty rate in Marvell, AR is 27.9%, 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 Marvell, AR?
Marvell's population is 0.0% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 62.5% two or more races. 2.6% of residents are foreign-born.