Melbourne, AR
Population 2,227 · Arkansas
About Melbourne, AR
Melbourne is a small town located in Arkansas with a population of 2,227 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $34,303 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Melbourne features a median home value of $203,000, which is 17% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Melbourne in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $620, 47% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,001 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (430 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (351 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Melbourne 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 36.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Melbourne have an average one-way commute time of 21.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.8% of Melbourne 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 0.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.4% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Melbourne, AR
Compared to national averages, Melbourne has a median household income of $34,303 (54% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $203,000, which is 17% below the national median. Monthly rent at $620 is 47% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Melbourne's income is 34% below the state average of $52,241, and home values are 62% above the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Melbourne, AR?
Melbourne offers affordable housing with a median home value of $203,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $620/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($34,303) that falls below the national average. However, Melbourne’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Melbourne has a population of 2,227 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare Melbourne with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Melbourne
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star City | 2,234 | $52,039 | $118,500 | Compare |
| Marked Tree | 2,235 | $45,197 | $85,700 | Compare |
| Gassville | 2,216 | $47,404 | $126,600 | Compare |
| Fairfield Bay | 2,247 | $54,735 | $157,300 | Compare |
| Eureka Springs | 2,269 | $41,821 | $246,900 | Compare |
| Carlisle | 2,175 | $34,858 | $132,600 | Compare |
| Lake Village | 2,280 | $44,803 | $120,200 | Compare |
| Smackover | 2,137 | $53,105 | $113,100 | 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 Melbourne With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Melbourne
What is the population of Melbourne, AR?
The population of Melbourne, AR is 2,227 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 Melbourne?
The median household income in Melbourne, AR is $34,303 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Melbourne?
The median home value in Melbourne, AR is $203,000, which is 17% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Melbourne?
The median monthly rent in Melbourne, AR is $620, which is 47% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Melbourne?
The unemployment rate in Melbourne, 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 Melbourne, AR a good place to live?
Melbourne offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,227 and a median age of 35.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Melbourne, AR?
15.8% of residents in Melbourne 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 Melbourne?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Melbourne, AR: median home value is $203,000 (17% below national), median rent is $620/month, and median household income is $34,303. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Melbourne?
The poverty rate in Melbourne, AR is 36.4%, 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 Melbourne, AR?
Melbourne's population is 0.6% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.