Thornton, AR
Population 315 · Arkansas
About Thornton, AR
Thornton is a small community located in Arkansas with a population of 315 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $62,917 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.6 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 Thornton features a median home value of $57,600, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Thornton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $625, 46% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 154 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (98 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (17 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Thornton shows an unemployment rate of 24.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 16.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Thornton have an average one-way commute time of 17.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
9.0% of Thornton 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 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Thornton, AR
Compared to national averages, Thornton has a median household income of $62,917 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $57,600, which is 76% below the national median. Monthly rent at $625 is 46% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Thornton's income is 20% above the state average of $52,241, and home values are 54% below the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Thornton, AR?
Thornton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $57,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $625/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($62,917) that falls below the national average. However, Thornton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Thornton has a population of 315 with a median age of 53.6 years. Compare Thornton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Thornton
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
Housing
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 Thornton
What is the population of Thornton, AR?
The population of Thornton, AR is 315 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 Thornton?
The median household income in Thornton, AR is $62,917 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Thornton?
The median home value in Thornton, AR is $57,600, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Thornton?
The median monthly rent in Thornton, AR is $625, which is 46% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Thornton?
The unemployment rate in Thornton, AR is 24.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Thornton, AR a good place to live?
Thornton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 315 and a median age of 53.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Thornton, AR?
9.0% of residents in Thornton 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 Thornton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Thornton, AR: median home value is $57,600 (76% below national), median rent is $625/month, and median household income is $62,917. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Thornton?
The poverty rate in Thornton, AR is 16.8%, 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 Thornton, AR?
Thornton's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 18.1% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.