Walnut Ridge, AR
Population 5,440 · Arkansas
About Walnut Ridge, AR
Walnut Ridge is a small town located in Arkansas with a population of 5,440 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,612 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Walnut Ridge features a median home value of $104,500, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Walnut Ridge one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $710, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,394 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (1,219 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (831 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Walnut Ridge shows an unemployment rate of 5.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 21.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Walnut Ridge have an average one-way commute time of 23.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.4% of Walnut Ridge 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 2.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Walnut Ridge, AR
Compared to national averages, Walnut Ridge has a median household income of $47,612 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $104,500, which is 57% below the national median. Monthly rent at $710 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arkansas, Walnut Ridge's income is 9% below the state average of $52,241, and home values are 17% below the state median of $125,457.
Why Live in Walnut Ridge, AR?
Walnut Ridge offers affordable housing with a median home value of $104,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $710/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,612) that falls below the national average. However, Walnut Ridge’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Walnut Ridge has a population of 5,440 with a median age of 38 years. Compare Walnut Ridge with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arkansas.
Similar Cities Near Walnut Ridge
Cities in Arkansas with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Hall | 5,520 | $84,304 | $207,100 | Compare |
| Warren | 5,342 | $35,064 | $86,400 | Compare |
| Mena | 5,605 | $50,875 | $114,200 | Compare |
| Berryville | 5,715 | $39,548 | $153,500 | Compare |
| Tontitown | 5,739 | $80,987 | $394,200 | Compare |
| Cave Springs | 5,778 | $147,917 | $431,300 | Compare |
| Cherokee Village | 5,078 | $35,244 | $86,800 | Compare |
| Sheridan | 5,063 | $61,025 | $182,300 | 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 Walnut Ridge With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Walnut Ridge
What is the population of Walnut Ridge, AR?
The population of Walnut Ridge, AR is 5,440 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 Walnut Ridge?
The median household income in Walnut Ridge, AR is $47,612 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Walnut Ridge?
The median home value in Walnut Ridge, AR is $104,500, which is 57% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Walnut Ridge?
The median monthly rent in Walnut Ridge, AR is $710, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Walnut Ridge?
The unemployment rate in Walnut Ridge, AR is 5.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Walnut Ridge, AR a good place to live?
Walnut Ridge offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,440 and a median age of 38, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Walnut Ridge, AR?
21.4% of residents in Walnut Ridge 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 Walnut Ridge?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Walnut Ridge, AR: median home value is $104,500 (57% below national), median rent is $710/month, and median household income is $47,612. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Walnut Ridge?
The poverty rate in Walnut Ridge, AR is 21.9%, 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 Walnut Ridge, AR?
Walnut Ridge's population is 2.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.