countyscore
43.1
County Score
Property Tax 85.6Cost of Living 79.5Weather & Climate 52.5

County Report Card

About Hempstead County, Arkansas

Hempstead below national livability median

With a composite score of 43.1, Hempstead County falls below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 40th percentile nationally. This below-average performance reflects meaningful livability constraints.

Underperforming Arkansas average

Hempstead ranks below Arkansas's state average of 47.9, situating it in the lower third of state counties. The gap suggests economic and social pressures worth understanding before relocating.

Exceptional housing affordability stands out

Hempstead delivers the group's best housing cost score of 79.5, with a median home value of $100,200 and rent at just $781 monthly. A tax score of 85.6 further minimizes household financial obligations.

Income, health, and water quality suffer

An income score of 10.4 and median household income of $47,654 are critically low, while health outcomes (27.2) lag badly. Water quality (9.3) emerges as a genuine environmental concern requiring investigation.

For ultra-budget seekers with lower expectations

Hempstead suits retirees or remote earners seeking rock-bottom housing costs who can overlook weak employment prospects and environmental concerns. It's not recommended for families requiring strong local job markets or excellent health infrastructure.

2040608010085.679.5927.227.710.447.99.352.5Tax85.6Cost79.5Safety9Health27.2Schools27.7Income10.4Risk47.9Water9.3Weather52.543.1/100
This county
National avg
2 above average5 below average

Hempstead County DNA

Foverall

How Hempstead County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Hempstead County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (85.6/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (9.3/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
85.6+33.599999999999994
Cost
79.5+31.5
Safety
9-46
Health
27.2-22.8
Schools
27.7-26.3
Income
10.4-40.6
Risk
47.9
Water
9.3-48.7
Weather
52.5
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$100,200

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$781/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$100,200/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$31,240/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $47,654/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

5.1

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Hempstead County with Arapahoe County →Share on X

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43

Nearby counties

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52.1
Howard County
Arkansas
53.6
Little River County
Arkansas
52.3
Pike County
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62.4
Sevier County
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Miller County
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Lafayette County
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Deep Dives

Hempstead County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hempstead County

via TaxByCounty

Hempstead taxes rank among nation's lowest

Hempstead County's effective tax rate of 0.502% sits well below the national median of 0.82%, placing it in the bottom 20% of U.S. counties. The median property tax of just $503 annually is less than one-fifth of the national median of $2,690. Hempstead is exceptionally affordable for property owners.

Slightly below Arkansas average

At 0.502%, Hempstead's effective rate trails the Arkansas state average of 0.532% by about 6%, making it a below-average county statewide. The median tax of $503 is 29% below the state average of $705, offering meaningful savings to homeowners.

Second-lowest in the survey

Hempstead's 0.502% rate is the second-lowest among surveyed counties, topped only by Fulton (0.461%) and well below Hot Spring (0.508%) and Howard (0.523%). This makes Hempstead a standout option for buyers seeking tax efficiency in south-central Arkansas.

What $100K home costs in taxes

A median-valued home of $100,200 in Hempstead County costs approximately $503 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $582 annually—among the lowest in the state.

Challenge overvalued assessments

Hempstead homeowners should request a property tax assessment review to ensure accuracy, as overvaluation errors are common across Arkansas. A successful appeal could further reduce your already-low tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hempstead County

via CostByCounty

Hempstead County renters feel moderate national pressure

At 19.7%, Hempstead County's rent-to-income ratio edges slightly above the national comfort threshold, meaning renters here carry marginally heavier housing burdens than the typical U.S. household. The median household income of $47,654 lags significantly behind the national average of $74,755, while median rent of $781 per month runs just $19 below Arkansas's state average.

Hempstead ranks above average on housing burden

With a rent-to-income ratio of 19.7%, Hempstead County exceeds Arkansas's state average of 18.1%, placing it among the higher-burden counties statewide. This gap reflects lower median income relative to rental costs in the region.

Hempstead's rents sit amid a range of regional options

Hempstead's median rent of $781 positions it in the middle range of this county cluster, below Garland ($942) and Greene ($852) but above Hot Spring ($763). Home values ($100,200) rank among the lowest in the region, offering affordability for buyers willing to accept higher rental burdens.

Renters shoulder more of Hempstead's income

With a median household income of just $47,654, renters in Hempstead County dedicate 19.7% of earnings—$781 per month—to rent, a notably higher share than stronger-income counties. Homeowners fare better with $534 monthly payments on $100,200 properties, making ownership more accessible than renting.

Hempstead appeals to homebuyers more than renters

If you're a renter, Hempstead County's 19.7% rent-to-income ratio suggests tighter budgets; if you're a homebuyer, low home values ($100,200) and modest ownership costs ($534/month) present real opportunity. Compare these tradeoffs against other Arkansas counties to find the best fit for your situation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hempstead County

via IncomeByCounty

Hempstead income lags far behind nation

Hempstead County's median household income of $47,654 falls 36% below the national median of $74,755, representing a substantial economic gap. This $27,101 shortfall means Hempstead households earn barely half what national-average families bring home annually.

Below-average earnings for Arkansas

Hempstead County ranks below Arkansas's state median of $51,156, with a household income about 7% lower than the state average. This below-average performance reflects economic challenges that require strategic county development and workforce initiatives.

Struggles against nearby earners

Hempstead County's $47,654 median household income trails Grant County ($72,512), Garland ($55,409), and Independence ($56,009) by significant margins. Only the most economically challenged neighboring counties approach or fall below Hempstead's earning power.

Housing pressure on tight budgets

Hempstead households spend 19.7% of income on rent, approaching the 30% affordability threshold and reflecting mounting housing pressure on modest wages. With median home values at $100,200, housing remains relatively affordable, but residents must budget carefully to manage other living costs.

Start investing despite income limits

Even Hempstead residents earning $47,654 can begin wealth-building through employer 401(k) matches, individual retirement accounts, and automated savings tools. Micro-investing apps and employer financial wellness programs help low-to-moderate income earners start building financial security today.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hempstead County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime Rates Exceed the National Benchmark

Hempstead County has a total crime rate of 2,879.7 per 100K, exceeding the national average of 2,385.5. It holds a safety score of 95.5 out of 100. This score reflects a moderate risk level relative to the rest of the country.

Slightly Under the State Safety Average

The county's safety score of 95.5 is just below the Arkansas average of 96.3. However, its total crime rate of 2,879.7 is higher than the state average of 2,326.8. Three law enforcement agencies provide the data that fuels these safety metrics.

Elevated Crime Compared to Howard County

Hempstead County reports significantly more crime than neighboring Howard County, which sits at 1,737.2 per 100K. Hempstead's rate of 2,879.7 represents a higher concentration of incidents in the immediate region. This disparity highlights different safety dynamics across county lines.

A Closer Look at Local Crime Types

Hempstead's violent crime rate of 658.8 per 100K is higher than the national 369.8 average. Property crime also outpaces the national average, reaching 2,220.9 per 100K. Residents should be aware that both categories show elevated levels of activity.

Building a Safer Home Environment

Given the higher-than-average property crime rate, securing your perimeter is a top priority. Motion-activated lighting and smart doorbells are effective tools for discouraging local theft. Keeping valuables out of sight from windows can also reduce the risk of burglary.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Hempstead County

via SchoolsByCounty

School Infrastructure in Hempstead County

Hempstead County manages 11 public schools across four districts, serving a total of 3,334 students. The system is distributed across three elementary, three middle, and five high schools, including one alternative learning facility.

Meeting Standards and Supporting Students

The county maintains an 88.1% graduation rate, which exceeds the national average of 87%. Investment sits at $6,051 per pupil, nearly matching the Arkansas state average and supporting a school score of 50.5.

The Hope District Anchor

The Hope School District is the primary educator in the county, managing six schools and 2,263 students. Smaller districts like Spring Hill and Blevins offer alternative environments for families seeking a less populated district feel.

Town Hubs and Rural Classrooms

The county features an even split between town and rural locales, offering parents a choice in learning environments. While the average school size is 333 students, Wm. Jefferson Clinton Primary stands out as the largest facility with 977 students.

Settle Near Top Hempstead Schools

Prospective residents often look toward the Hope School District for its diverse campus options and central location. The county's steady academic performance makes it a practical choice for families relocating to Southwest Arkansas.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hempstead County

via RiskByCounty

Hempstead County's risk mirrors national average

With a composite risk score of 52.07, Hempstead County carries a Relatively Low national rating that closely tracks typical U.S. county hazard exposure. This balanced profile reflects moderate-to-high tornado and hurricane risks offset by lower flood and wildfire exposure.

Slightly below Arkansas's average risk level

Hempstead County's score of 52.07 sits just under Arkansas's state average of 55.51, positioning it near the state median for natural disaster vulnerability. This near-average standing reflects typical Arkansas multi-hazard exposure patterns.

Middle-of-the-pack risk within region

Hempstead County's score of 52.07 falls between Grant County's exceptional safety (15.71) and Garland County's elevated risk (89.31), making it representative of typical southwestern Arkansas hazard profiles. Hot Spring County (55.53) carries similarly balanced risk levels.

Tornadoes and earthquakes threaten most

Tornado risk at 72.77 represents Hempstead County's primary hazard, while earthquake exposure at 75.54 creates a secondary structural threat. Hurricane risk at 65.00 is notably elevated compared to many inland counties and warrants serious preparation.

Wind coverage and flood insurance matter

Hempstead County residents need robust wind and hail protection to handle tornado and hurricane exposure, plus strong consideration of flood insurance for properties in flood-prone zones. Given your county's location and hazard profile, a reinforced safe room is a worthwhile home improvement investment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Hempstead County

via WaterByCounty

High Violation Rates Drive Grade F Rating

Hempstead County receives a grade of F for drinking water compliance, with 59 health violations recorded over five years. The county’s violation rate of 366.2 per 100,000 residents is more than double the state average of 172.5. These numbers indicate significant hurdles for local water utilities in maintaining safety standards.

Dissolved Oxygen and pH Stress Hempstead Watersheds

Of the 223 water bodies assessed in Hempstead County, 22% are currently listed as impaired. This rate is higher than the state average of 17.8%, with pH and dissolved oxygen identified as major issues. These environmental stressors can impact both aquatic life and the quality of source water.

Thousands of Measurements Track County Water Quality

Hempstead County features 15 monitoring sites that have logged 4,294 measurements in the last five years. The most frequently measured groups include inorganics, metals, and nutrients. This data footprint helps environmental managers track the contaminants causing the 22% impairment rate.

Real-Time Streamflow Monitoring Currently Unavailable

There is currently no primary USGS streamgage providing live flow data for Hempstead County. In the absence of real-time discharge figures, water managers prioritize drinking water compliance and watershed assessment data. Residents should look to local utility reports for the most current information on water availability.

Priority on Filtration and Water Quality Awareness

The high rate of drinking water violations makes home water testing and filtration a practical step for Hempstead County residents. Awareness of pH and dissolved oxygen issues in local watersheds is also important for those using private wells. Regularly check with local health officials to stay updated on current water safety advisories.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hempstead County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Southern Climate Profile

Hempstead County averages 62.4°F annually, which is significantly warmer than the national median of 54°F. This makes it one of the warmer regions in the south-central United States.

Exceeding the Arkansas State Average

The county's average temperature of 62.4°F is notably higher than the state average of 61.0°F. It also receives 55.1 inches of precipitation annually, making it wetter than the state average of 52.4 inches.

Cooler Than Neighboring Howard County

While Hempstead is warm, it is cooler than neighboring Howard County, which averages 63.2°F. Hempstead also experiences 11 fewer days of extreme heat than Howard's 81-day average.

Hot Summers and Very Mild Winters

July temperatures average 81.5°F, contributing to 70 days of extreme heat over 90°F annually. Winters are among the mildest in the state, with a January average of 42.4°F and only 2.3 inches of snow.

Focus on Sun and Rain Protection

With 70 days of heat over 90°F, residents should plan for high cooling costs and sun protection. The 55.1 inches of annual rain also requires durable roofing and reliable storm drainage systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hempstead County

via SoilByCounty

Sandy Entisols of the Southwest

Hempstead County features young, sandy Entisols with a pH of 5.83. This is slightly more alkaline than the Arkansas average of 5.56, though it remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5. These soils are often found in areas of recent sediment deposition or rolling hills.

Fine Sands Lead the Profile

The soil is dominated by 43.0% sand and 34.3% silt, resulting in a fine sand texture. A significant 22.8% clay fraction provides the necessary 'glue' to help the soil hold onto nutrients and moisture. This mix offers a great balance of aeration and structural integrity.

Above Average Water Retention

The available water capacity of 0.152 in/in exceeds the state average, providing a reliable reservoir for plants. Organic matter sits at 1.85%, which is modest but typical for the region’s climate. Overall, the soil score of 41.0 indicates a very capable and fertile landscape.

Rapid Drainage and High Infiltration

Classified as somewhat excessively drained, water moves through this soil very quickly. It belongs to hydrologic group A, the highest infiltration category, making it excellent for building foundations. However, gardeners will need to irrigate more frequently during the peak of summer.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8a

Zone 8a offers a long, warm growing season ideal for southern favorites like melons and peaches. The sandy texture prevents root rot even during heavy rains. It is a fantastic place to start a market garden or a diverse home orchard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hempstead County

via LawnByCounty

A Strong Start for Hempstead Lawns

Hempstead County earns a lawn difficulty score of 41.3, making it one of the easier places in Arkansas to keep a yard green. This score sits well above the state average of 37.3, though it trails the national median of 50.0. The local Zone 8a climate provides a long, warm season that is conducive to vigorous grass growth.

Navigating 70 Days of Sun

Homeowners must manage 70 extreme heat days each year, slightly higher than the state average of 64 days. With 55.1 inches of annual precipitation, the county receives more than enough water, though heavy rains can sometimes leach nutrients from the soil. The 5,402 growing degree days mean your lawn will be extremely active and require regular mowing from spring to late autumn.

Rapid Drainage in Fine Sand

Your lawn grows in fine sand that is classified as somewhat excessively drained, meaning water moves through the root zone very quickly. The pH of 5.83 is quite close to the ideal range of 6.0-7.0, reducing the need for heavy lime applications. However, the high sand content (43%) and low clay (22.8%) suggest you should apply fertilizer in smaller, more frequent doses to prevent runoff.

Managing Moderate Drought Stress

Hempstead has seen only 14 weeks of drought over the past year, and currently, only 22.1% of the county is in severe drought. This makes it more resilient than many neighboring regions, but the sandy soil still poses a risk of quick drying. Using smart irrigation controllers can help you manage the excessively drained soil without wasting water.

Maximize the Zone 8a Season

Bermuda and St. Augustine grasses are excellent choices for Hempstead's Zone 8a heat and sandy textures. Your growing season begins after the last frost on March 26 and doesn't end until November 6, providing over seven months of prime growth. Start your lawn projects in mid-April to ensure the soil is warm enough for fast root establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hempstead County's county score?
Hempstead County, Arkansas has a composite county score of 43.1 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Hempstead County rank among counties in Arkansas?
Hempstead County ranks #54 among all counties in Arkansas on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Hempstead County, Arkansas?
The median annual property tax in Hempstead County is $503, with an effective tax rate of 0.50%. This earns Hempstead County a tax score of 85.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hempstead County?
The median household income in Hempstead County, Arkansas is $47,654 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hempstead County earns an income score of 10.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hempstead County, Arkansas a good place to live?
Hempstead County scores 43.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #54 in Arkansas. The best way to evaluate Hempstead County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Hempstead County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.