countyscore
45
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 81.1Cost of Living 63.5

County Report Card

About Independence County, Arkansas

Independence slightly below national median

Independence County's composite score of 45.0 falls slightly below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 45th percentile nationally. This near-average performance suggests a county facing modest livability headwinds.

Below Arkansas average

Independence ranks below Arkansas's state average of 47.9, positioning it in the lower half of state counties. This gap indicates structural challenges relative to stronger Arkansas peers.

Reasonable taxes and water quality

Independence's tax score of 81.1 and effective rate of 0.545% provide meaningful relief, while a water score of 86.0 reflects strong environmental stewardship. Housing costs remain moderate with median rent at $814.

Income, safety, and schools need work

An income score of 27.7 and median household income of $56,009 constrain household economic potential, while safety (18.7) and schools (32.6) lag. Health outcomes (29.8) also suggest room for improvement.

Moderate choice for value-conscious settlers

Independence suits budget-minded individuals or couples seeking reasonable costs and environmental quality without expecting strong job markets or robust institutions. It's a middling option best for those with external income sources or lower expectations.

Score breakdown

Tax81.1Cost63.5Safety18.7Health29.8Schools32.6Income27.7Risk30.9Water86Weather59.6
🏛81.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠63.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡18.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤29.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓32.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡30.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨45.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.5
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

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Arkansas
42.3
Cleburne County
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Sharp County
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65.6
Izard County
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Stone County
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White County
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Lawrence County
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Woodruff County
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Deep Dives

Independence County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Independence County

via TaxByCounty

Independence taxes rank quite low nationally

Independence County's effective tax rate of 0.545% sits well below the national median of 0.82%, placing it in the bottom 25% of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $657 annually represents just 24% of the national median of $2,690. Independence offers substantial tax savings compared to national norms.

Slightly above Arkansas average

At 0.545%, Independence's effective rate edges just above the Arkansas state average of 0.532% by roughly 2%, making it near-average statewide. The median tax of $657 is 7% below the state average of $705, offering slight savings despite slightly higher rates.

Highest rate in the survey

Independence's 0.545% rate ties with Grant as the highest among the surveyed counties, topping Howard (0.523%) and Greene (0.488%). Still, by national standards, Independence remains tax-friendly.

What $121K home costs in taxes

A median-valued property of $120,500 in Independence County generates an annual tax bill of approximately $657. Including mortgage costs, that rises to $698 per year.

Appeal inflated property valuations

Independence County homeowners should file for a property tax assessment review if they suspect overvaluation, which is common across Arkansas. A successful appeal could reduce your annual tax liability.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Independence County

via CostByCounty

Independence County housing costs track below national average

At 17.4%, Independence County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national threshold, positioning renters here in a more favorable situation than typical U.S. households. The median household income of $56,009 falls short of the national average of $74,755, yet median rent of $814 per month remains reasonable for the region.

Independence ranks among Arkansas's more affordable counties

With a rent-to-income ratio of 17.4%, Independence County outperforms the state average of 18.1%, placing it solidly in Arkansas's more affordable half. This edge reflects balanced rental markets and household incomes in the county.

Independence offers solid mid-range housing value

At $814 per month, Independence County's median rent sits in the moderate range of this central Arkansas cluster, below Garland ($942) and Greene ($852) but above Hot Spring ($763). Home values ($120,500) also remain moderate, appealing to families seeking reasonable pricing without extreme constraints.

Independence households enjoy balanced housing economics

Renters in Independence County dedicate 17.4% of their $56,009 median income—$814 per month—to housing, a sustainable burden leaving ample room for other expenses. Homeowners pay $704 monthly on properties valued at $120,500, with both groups enjoying reasonable relationships between income and shelter costs.

Independence County: balanced opportunity for all buyers

Independence County offers solid affordability for both renters and homebuyers seeking mid-range costs and reasonable housing burdens across the board. Use these benchmarks to evaluate how Independence stacks up against your current location and other Arkansas counties you're considering for relocation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Independence County

via IncomeByCounty

Independence income trails national norm

Independence County's median household income of $56,009 falls 25% short of the national median of $74,755, reflecting a persistent regional income disadvantage. The $18,746 annual gap illustrates why Independence residents must plan carefully for major purchases and retirement savings.

Above-average Arkansas performer

Independence County ranks solidly above Arkansas's state median of $51,156, with a household income about 10% higher than the state average. This above-average standing positions Independence as one of Arkansas's more economically stable counties.

Strong position among peer counties

Independence County's $56,009 median household income exceeds most neighboring counties including Fulton ($38,941), Hempstead ($47,654), and Howard ($44,492), though it trails Grant ($72,512). This middle-to-upper performance reflects Independence's relative economic strength within the region.

Housing costs stay manageable

Independence households allocate just 17.4% of income to rent, well below the 30% affordability threshold and providing healthy financial cushion. With median home values at $120,500, residents enjoy reasonable access to homeownership and rental options.

Leverage stability for investments

Independence County's $56,009 income and favorable housing ratio position residents well for wealth-building through diversified investments and retirement planning. Regular contributions to employer 401(k)s and Roth IRAs can compound substantially over decades, creating meaningful financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Independence County

via CrimeByCounty

Independence County Beats National Averages

Independence County maintains a respectable safety score of 96.6 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 2,152.5 per 100K is safer than the national average of 2,385.5. This indicates a relatively secure environment for the county's population.

Performing Well Within Arkansas

The county's safety score of 96.6 is slightly higher than the Arkansas state average of 96.3. With a total crime rate of 2,152.5, it also remains below the state average of 2,326.8. Four local agencies work together to provide consistent crime reporting.

Comparable Rates to Fulton County

Independence County tracks closely with Fulton County, though its total crime rate of 2,152.5 is slightly higher than Fulton's 2,093.1. However, Independence maintains a lower violent crime rate than neighboring Greene County. This makes it a balanced middle-ground for regional safety.

Balanced Risks in Property and Violence

The violent crime rate of 485.4 per 100K is lower than the state average but higher than the national 369.8. Property crime stands at 1,667.1, which is notably lower than the national average of 2,015.7. Most residents will find the area to be peaceful with manageable risks.

Smart Security for Peace of Mind

Property crime accounts for most local incidents, so simple security upgrades go a long way. Installing motion sensors and ensuring all outbuildings are locked can prevent common thefts. Community engagement and reporting suspicious activity help keep the county's safety score high.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Independence County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy nearly matches national average

Independence County residents live to an average of 73.4 years, just 3 years below the U.S. life expectancy of 76.4 years—a strong showing for a rural Arkansas county. About 25.6% report poor or fair health, tying for the highest in the eight-county study, suggesting health perception lags behind actual longevity. This gap hints at undiagnosed or undertreated conditions affecting resident wellness.

Top-tier life expectancy with solid coverage

Independence's 73.4-year life expectancy is 1.1 years above Arkansas's state average of 72.3 years, placing it among the healthiest counties in the state. The uninsured rate of 9.8% essentially matches the state average of 9.9%, indicating representative insurance access. Independence stands as a health performer within Arkansas despite rural characteristics.

Health leader with strong provider capacity

Independence's 73.4-year life expectancy ties with Greene for the highest in the eight-county region, supported by 77 primary care providers per 100,000—the second-highest after Garland. Mental health providers at 185 per 100,000 offer robust behavioral health infrastructure. This provider density likely contributes to Independence's strong life expectancy and positions it as a regional healthcare hub.

Strong providers serving well-insured population

Independence's 9.8% uninsured rate matches the state average, and with 77 primary care providers per 100,000, residents have good access to routine care and chronic disease management. However, 25.6% reporting poor/fair health—tied for highest—suggests that access alone doesn't guarantee good health outcomes. Mental health providers at 185 per 100,000 support behavioral health, though underlying economic and social factors may limit care effectiveness.

Leverage Independence's healthcare strength

With 77 primary care providers per 100,000, Independence County offers above-average healthcare capacity—ensure you're covered to use it. If you're uninsured, visit Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace or call 211 to enroll quickly. Coverage unlocks preventive care, mental health services, and chronic disease management that can close the gap between Independence's strong life expectancy and high poor/fair health reporting.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Independence County

via SchoolsByCounty

Traditional and Charter School Mix

Independence County supports 14 public schools across five districts, serving a total of 6,855 students. The county features a diverse infrastructure of six elementary, three middle, and five high schools.

Steady Performance in the White River Valley

The county maintains a strong 91.5% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 87% national average. Local districts spend $5,372 per student, resulting in a 50.8 composite school score that aligns with state medians.

Batesville’s Innovative Charter Options

The Batesville School District is the largest, educating 3,469 students and utilizing four charter schools—making up nearly 29% of the county's total schools. Southside School District also serves a significant population with 2,234 students.

A Diverse Array of School Settings

Thirteen of the county's 14 schools are in rural settings, yet average school sizes remain robust at 527 students. Batesville High School is the largest campus with 973 students, providing a comprehensive secondary experience.

Discover Independence County Education

With its unique blend of traditional districts and charter innovation, Independence County offers flexible options for every student. Look for properties in Batesville or Southside to benefit from the area's most popular and well-resourced schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Independence County

via RiskByCounty

Independence County's composite risk exceeds national norm

Independence County's composite risk score of 69.08 places it above the national average with a Relatively Low rating, reflecting substantial exposure to tornadoes (89.19), earthquakes (89.98), and wildfires (70.48). This multi-hazard profile demands serious resident preparedness.

Above-average risk compared to Arkansas

At 69.08, Independence County's score significantly exceeds Arkansas's state average of 55.51, ranking it among the riskier counties statewide. This elevated position reflects particularly high tornado and earthquake vulnerability.

Riskier than most surrounding counties

Independence County's score of 69.08 exceeds regional peers like Howard County (48.51), Hot Spring County (55.53), and Hempstead County (52.07), but falls short of Garland County's exceptional risk (89.31). Only Greene County (80.18) and Garland approach its hazard exposure.

Earthquakes and tornadoes dominate hazard profile

Earthquake risk at 89.98 represents Independence County's primary concern, while tornado risk at 89.19 runs nearly parallel—together creating a formidable structural threat. Wildfire risk at 70.48 adds a third significant hazard requiring community-level preparation.

Earthquake and wind protection are essential

Independence County residents must secure dedicated earthquake insurance alongside comprehensive wind and hail coverage—both hazards pose severe structural threats. Have a structural engineer assess your home's foundation and connections, and ensure you maintain adequate emergency supplies for both seismic and tornado events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Independence County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Transitions in Independence

Independence County averages 58.4°F annually, sitting about 4 degrees above the national median. This climate provides more distinct seasonal changes than the warmer counties to the south.

Cooler and Drier Than the State Average

The county is cooler than the Arkansas average of 61.0°F and drier than the state average of 52.4 inches. It records 50.1 inches of annual precipitation, reflecting its northern inland position.

Warmer and Rainier Than Izard County

Independence County is warmer than neighboring Izard County, which averages 56.6°F. It is also rainier than Izard but receives roughly half as much snow, averaging 3.3 inches per year.

Moderate Summers and Brisk Winters

Summers reach an average of 77.3°F with 55 days of extreme heat, while July peaks at 79.0°F. Winters are colder than the state average, featuring a January average of 36.8°F.

Ready for Seasonal Temperature Swings

Residents should prepare for 55 days of heat while also winterizing for a January average of 36.8°F. The 3.3 inches of snow is manageable but requires basic winter weather supplies for safety.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Independence County

via SoilByCounty

High-Organic Acidic Soils in Independence

Independence County soil has a pH of 5.43, which is more acidic than both the state average and the national median of 6.5. Despite the acidity, the soil score of 45.9 is quite high for the region. This indicates a landscape with high natural productivity and resilience.

Silty Loam Texture Prevails

A balanced composition of 35.4% sand, 42.3% silt, and 15.1% clay creates a versatile silty loam. This texture is prized by farmers for its ability to hold nutrients while still allowing for decent drainage. It offers a smooth workability that is ideal for diverse farming.

Superior Organic Matter Levels

At 6.88%, the organic matter in Independence County is well above the state average of 4.15%. While the available water capacity of 0.139 in/in is slightly below the state average, the high organic content provides excellent natural fertility. Plants here benefit from a rich biological foundation.

Subaqueous Drainage and Wet Landscapes

The dominant drainage class is listed as subaqueous, indicating many soils are frequently underwater or saturated. This hydrology makes the county unique, requiring specialized management for farming and building. Drainage infrastructure is often a key consideration for local land use.

Diverse Potential in Zone 7b

The 7b climate is perfect for a mix of cool-season and warm-season crops. The high organic matter makes this an ideal spot for intensive vegetable gardening or heavy-feeding perennials. Use raised beds to manage the wet subaqueous conditions and watch your garden flourish.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Independence County

via LawnByCounty

Beating the Odds in Independence

Independence County earns a lawn difficulty score of 39.5, outperforming the state average of 37.3 and ranking as one of the more manageable areas in Arkansas. While still below the national median of 50.0, the Zone 7b climate offers a slightly shorter heat season than southern counties. This makes it a great location for homeowners willing to put in consistent effort.

Reliable Rain and Managed Heat

The county averages 50.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is exactly at the top end of the ideal range for healthy lawns. With 55 extreme heat days, you deal with fewer blistering afternoons than the state average of 64. These conditions, paired with 4,485 growing degree days, provide a steady and predictable schedule for mowing and fertilization.

Soil Challenges and Low pH

Homeowners face an acidic soil pH of 5.43, which can limit the availability of essential nutrients like phosphorus and calcium. The soil is listed with subaqueous drainage characteristics in some areas, implying that some yards may struggle with poor drainage or high water tables. You will likely need to apply lime annually and ensure your lawn has proper grading to prevent standing water.

Resisting 100% Severe Drought

Independence County has navigated 30 weeks of drought in the past year, and currently, 100% of the county is under severe drought. This widespread stress makes it essential to avoid over-mowing, which can expose the soil and lead to even more moisture loss. During these times, focus on keeping your lawn alive through dormancy rather than forcing unnatural growth with nitrogen.

Winning with Transition Zone Grass

Independence County's Zone 7b status makes it ideal for Tall Fescue or Zoysia, which can handle both cold winters and hot summers. The typical frost-free season runs from April 8 to October 26, giving you a solid six-month window for active growth. For best results, seed your cool-season grasses in the early fall when the 55 heat days have finally subsided.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Independence County's county score?
Independence County, Arkansas has a composite county score of 45 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 Independence County rank among counties in Arkansas?
Independence County ranks #47 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 Independence County, Arkansas?
The median annual property tax in Independence County is $657, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Independence County a tax score of 81.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Independence County?
The median household income in Independence County, Arkansas is $56,009 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Independence County earns an income score of 27.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Independence County, Arkansas a good place to live?
Independence County scores 45/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Arkansas. The best way to evaluate Independence 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 Independence County with other counties side by side.

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