countyscore
50.4
County Score
Property Tax 87.9Cost of Living 86.2Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Sevier County, Arkansas

Sevier County matches national livability median

Sevier County's composite score of 50.4 essentially equals the national median of 50.0, positioning it as an average U.S. county. This balanced profile reflects strengths and challenges that roughly mirror national patterns.

Slightly above Arkansas average

Sevier County scores 50.4, edging past Arkansas's state average of 47.9 and ranking in the middle tier statewide. The county performs better than many rural Arkansas peers but trails the top performers.

Exceptional affordability and tax relief

Sevier County excels with a cost score of 86.2, featuring the state's lowest median home values at $111,700 and rents at just $725/month. Its tax score of 87.9 (effective rate 0.480%) offers among Arkansas's best tax advantages.

Income and health outcomes lag behind

Sevier County's income score of 17.8 reflects a median household income of only $51,641, limiting household purchasing power. Health outcomes also need strengthening, with a score of just 13.5.

Ideal for retirees and budget strivers

Sevier County is a strong fit for cost-conscious households, retirees on fixed incomes, and those prioritizing low taxes and affordable housing. The trade-off: lower incomes and health resources mean it suits those who can manage with fewer services.

Score breakdown

Tax87.9Cost86.2Safety38.4Health13.5Schools26Income17.8Risk35.1Water86Weather50.6
🏛87.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠86.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼17.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡38.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤13.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓26
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡35.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨47.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱38.4
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

Howard County
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53.6
Little River County
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Hempstead County
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43.1
McCurtain County
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Bowie County
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Pike County
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Polk County
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Miller County
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Deep Dives

Sevier County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Sevier County

via TaxByCounty

Sevier County offers lowest-cost property taxes

At 0.480%, Sevier County's effective tax rate ranks in the lowest 10% nationally, well below the 0.86% national median. The median property tax of just $536 represents only 20% of the national median, making this among the most tax-friendly counties in America for property owners.

Lightest tax load in Arkansas

Sevier County's 0.480% effective rate is substantially below Arkansas's state average of 0.532%, ranking it among the lowest-taxed counties in the state. Its median property tax of $536 is notably lower than the state median of $705.

Second-lowest among eight regional counties

Sevier County's 0.480% rate edges out only Stone County (0.353%) in this eight-county comparison. At $536 median tax, Sevier homeowners pay less than most neighbors, with only St. Francis County and Sharp County approaching similar affordability.

Expected annual tax on median home

A typical Sevier County homeowner with a $111,700 property pays approximately $536 annually in property taxes. Those with mortgages typically pay around $641, while owners without mortgages pay closer to $476.

Even low assessments can be challenged

Even in an affordable county like Sevier, some homeowners still carry overassessed properties from years past. Requesting a reassessment is free and can only lower or maintain your tax bill—it's worth checking if your $111,700 median-value property is accurately assessed.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sevier County

via CostByCounty

Sevier punches above affordability weight

Sevier County renters spend just 16.9% of income on housing, beating the national average of 18.1%. At $725 monthly rent against a $51,641 median household income, this rural county delivers housing deals that rival much wealthier regions.

Most affordable in Arkansas

Sevier County leads Arkansas with a 16.9% rent-to-income ratio, well below the state average of 18.1%. Its $725 median rent is the lowest in this county set, making it a standout choice for budget-conscious Arkansans.

The bargain of the region

Sevier County undercuts all nearby counties on rent: $725 versus Sharp County's $648, Van Buren's $727, and Union County's $825. Despite lower income ($51,641), residents here pay the least and enjoy the best affordability ratios.

Renting beats buying here

Renters in Sevier County pay $725 monthly while homeowners spend $536—a significant gap favoring owners. With a median home value of $111,700, buying becomes an attractive long-term option for those who can save.

Sevier is the affordability winner

Sevier County offers the best rent-to-income ratio in this region at 16.9%, making it ideal for remote workers or retirees seeking low housing costs. You'll stretch your paycheck further here than nearly anywhere else in Arkansas.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sevier County

via IncomeByCounty

Sevier County lags national earnings

Sevier County's median household income of $51,641 falls short of the national median of $74,755 by nearly $23,000, or 31 percent. The county faces significant income challenges relative to the broader U.S. economy.

Just barely above state average

Sevier County's $51,641 median household income nearly matches Arkansas's state average of $51,156, making it a middle-of-the-pack performer among state counties. The county reflects broader economic patterns common to rural southwestern Arkansas.

Income compressed across region

Sevier County's households earn roughly $5,000 more than those in neighboring Sharp County ($42,950) but about $5,200 less than Sebastian County ($56,450). The region shows relatively compressed income levels across rural communities.

Housing costs manageable

Sevier County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.9 percent indicates solid housing affordability, the strongest in the region. At a median home value of $111,700, housing remains within reach for typical households.

Leverage modest income wisely

Sevier County households should prioritize building emergency savings and exploring employer retirement plans to maximize limited income growth opportunities. Consider local credit unions and financial literacy programs to strengthen money management and wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sevier County

via CrimeByCounty

Strong Safety Profile in Sevier

Sevier County earns a safety score of 97.8, significantly outperforming the national average. Its total crime rate of 1,407.6 per 100K remains well below the U.S. average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the State Safety Average

The county's safety score exceeds the Arkansas state average of 96.3. Two reporting agencies manage a crime rate that is 40% lower than the state-wide average.

Safer than Regional Peers

Sevier is much safer than neighboring Union County, where the crime rate reaches 2,996.3 per 100K. It shares a similar safety profile with rural Stone County.

Theft Outpaces Violent Crime

Property crime accounts for 1,018.0 incidents per 100K, while the violent crime rate stands at 389.6. These figures suggest a community where residents are more likely to encounter theft than violence.

Maintain High Local Safety Standards

While Sevier is relatively safe, residents should still lock doors and secure outbuildings. Community awareness helps maintain the county's position as a low-crime area.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sevier County

via HealthByCounty

Health struggles outpace life expectancy gains

Sevier County's 72.2-year life expectancy sits slightly below the U.S. average of 76.4 years, reflecting deeper health challenges across the county. At 27.3% reporting poor or fair health, Sevier residents face one of the highest rates of chronic disease burden in the region—50% higher than the national average.

Below Arkansas average on multiple fronts

Sevier County's 72.2-year life expectancy falls just short of Arkansas's 72.3-year state average, placing it among the weaker performers statewide. The county's 27.3% poor or fair health rate ranks well above the state trend, signaling concentrated healthcare challenges.

Fewer doctors, more health struggles

Sevier County's 44 primary care providers per 100,000 residents rank lowest among its neighbors—less than a third of Sebastian County's 131 per 100K. This provider shortage compounds the county's 27.3% poor or fair health rate, making timely preventive care harder to secure.

Uninsured rate drives delayed care

At 15.5%, Sevier County's uninsured rate is the highest in the region and 56% above the state average of 9.9%—meaning nearly 1 in 6 residents lack coverage. With only 64 mental health providers per 100,000, behavioral health services are also scarce, leaving many residents to manage stress, depression, and anxiety without professional support.

Enrollment can break the care barrier

Sevier County's high uninsured rate reflects cost and access challenges that Medicaid expansion and marketplace subsidies are designed to solve. Visit healthcare.gov or contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services to explore plans that fit your income—coverage can mean the difference between managing health at home and facing a crisis.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sevier County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Localized Small-Scale School System

Sevier County manages education through three school districts containing eight total public schools. The system serves 3,014 students across a mix of three elementary, one middle, and three high schools. This compact infrastructure ensures students remain within a consistent local community throughout their education.

High Per-Pupil Investment in Local Schools

The county spends $6,918 per pupil, which is notably higher than the Arkansas state average of $6,160. However, the graduation rate currently stands at 82.5%, trailing behind both the state average of 90.3% and the national mark of 87.0%. The composite school score of 49.4 reflects an area focused on closing the gap with state-wide performance levels.

DeQueen School District Anchors the County

The DeQueen School District is the primary educator in the area, operating five schools that serve 2,320 students. The Horatio School District also serves the community with two schools and 694 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, with all students attending traditional public institutions.

Rural Roots and Mid-Sized Classrooms

Schools here are primarily rural or town-based, with five of the eight schools located in rural settings. The average school size is 431 students, led by DeQueen Primary which enrolls 576 students. This environment offers a traditional community-focused education where most schools serve fewer than 500 children.

Put Down Roots in a Close-Knit Community

For families seeking a town or rural lifestyle, Sevier County offers a school system where every student is known by name. The DeQueen area serves as the central hub for those looking for proximity to the county’s largest educational facilities. Local home buyers often value the high per-pupil investment as a sign of community commitment to the next generation.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sevier County

via RiskByCounty

Sevier County has below-average disaster risk

Sevier County's composite risk score of 64.95 sits below the national average, earning a relatively low-risk designation. While still experiencing meaningful hazard exposure, this county is among the safer areas in America for natural disasters. The score reflects moderate but manageable risks across several hazard types.

Below-average risk within Arkansas

Sevier County scores 64.95 on composite risk, meaningfully lower than Arkansas's state average of 55.51—placing it in the safer half of state counties. However, this represents the upper end of the 'relatively low' category statewide. Sevier ranks roughly in the middle tier for Arkansas disaster risk.

Comparable risk to nearby counties

Sevier County's risk profile of 64.95 is similar to Sharp County (68.07) and moderately higher than Union County (53.88). The county faces somewhat greater tornado exposure than its western neighbors but less wildfire risk than southern adjacent areas. Regional disaster risks are relatively consistent across this portion of Arkansas.

Tornadoes and earthquakes drive risk profile

Tornado risk in Sevier County scores 63.55, creating the primary severe weather threat residents face. Earthquake risk of 61.70 presents a secondary but notable concern for structural safety. Wildfire risk is moderate at 58.05, requiring awareness but not extreme precaution.

Ensure tornado and earthquake preparedness

Sevier County homeowners should maintain adequate coverage for wind and hail damage tied to tornado events with a risk score of 63.55. Earthquake insurance is worth evaluating given the 61.70 earthquake risk score—it's often available as an affordable add-on. Establishing a family emergency plan and shelter-in-place strategy will maximize safety during severe weather.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sevier County

via WeatherByCounty

Sevier County Stays Warm and Humid

The county's average temperature of 62.5°F is nearly nine degrees warmer than the national median. This southern Arkansas climate features high humidity and significant annual rainfall.

Exceeding Arkansas Temperature Norms

Sevier County is warmer than the state average of 61.0°F, recording an annual average of 62.5°F. Its precipitation of 51.3 inches is just slightly below the statewide average of 52.4 inches.

Warmer Winters Than Northern Neighbors

Sevier County is significantly warmer than Scott County, particularly in the winter. Its January average of 42.4°F makes it one of the milder spots in the western part of the state.

Extended Heat and Mild Winters

Summer lasts a long time here, with 75 days reaching at least 90°F and a July average of 81.6°F. Snow is rare, with an annual average of only 2.6 inches.

Managing the Southern Heat

Residents should budget for high cooling costs to manage 75 days of extreme heat. Minimal winter gear is needed, as snowfall is rare and January temperatures stay well above freezing on average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sevier County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Soil Profiles Near the State Average

Sevier County records an average pH of 5.48, which is nearly identical to the Arkansas state average of 5.56. This level is significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median, requiring lime for many traditional garden crops.

High Silt Content for Better Nutrient Retention

The soil composition includes 37.3% sand and 40.7% silt, providing a stable foundation for root systems. Clay makes up 19.8% of the mix, which helps the soil hold onto nutrients more effectively than sandier neighboring counties.

Strong Water Capacity Boosts Growing Potential

With an available water capacity of 0.171 in/in, this soil stores significantly more moisture than the state average of 0.148 in/in. Organic matter sits at 3.01%, providing a solid foundation for plant health despite being lower than the statewide figure.

Slow Drainage Challenges Traditional Building

The soil belongs to hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration rates when the ground is saturated. This high runoff potential requires careful site planning for both farming and home construction.

Thriving Pine and Produce in Zone 8a

Hardiness zone 8a supports a wide range of fruit and timber, with Sevier's water retention specifically benefiting thirsty summer vegetables. Local gardeners should test their soil frequently to manage the naturally low pH levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sevier County

via LawnByCounty

Tougher Growing Conditions in Sevier County

Sevier County scores a 38.4 for lawn difficulty, placing it near the Arkansas state average of 37.3. It is significantly more challenging than the national median of 50.0. Homeowners here in Zone 8a must contend with high acidity and extreme summer weather.

Navigating Intense Heat and High Rainfall

Residents manage 75 days of extreme heat annually, which is higher than the state average of 64 days. The 51.3 inches of annual precipitation is slightly above the ideal 50-inch threshold for most grasses. This combination creates a humid environment where moisture management is critical to prevent disease.

Amending Highly Acidic Soils

The soil pH here is quite low at 5.48, falling well short of the 6.0-7.0 range preferred by healthy lawns. While specific texture data is limited, the 19.8% clay and 37.3% sand indicate a need for regular organic amendments. Lime is essential in this county to unlock nutrients and support root development.

Fighting Severe Drought Conditions

Drought is a major concern as 100% of the county is currently experiencing severe drought (D2+). With 16 weeks spent in drought over the past year, water conservation is a daily necessity for lawn owners. Mulch-mowing can help retain soil moisture and protect roots during these harsh periods.

Starting Your Sevier County Lawn

Heat-tolerant varieties like Centipedegrass or St. Augustine are best suited for the Zone 8a climate. Wait until at least March 29th to begin spring projects to ensure the final frost has cleared. Consistent watering is vital during the establishment phase, especially given the current drought status.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sevier County's county score?
Sevier County, Arkansas has a composite county score of 50.4 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 Sevier County rank among counties in Arkansas?
Sevier County ranks #33 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 Sevier County, Arkansas?
The median annual property tax in Sevier County is $536, with an effective tax rate of 0.48%. This earns Sevier County a tax score of 87.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sevier County?
The median household income in Sevier County, Arkansas is $51,641 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sevier County earns an income score of 17.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sevier County, Arkansas a good place to live?
Sevier County scores 50.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #33 in Arkansas. The best way to evaluate Sevier 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 Sevier County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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