Desha County, Arkansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Desha County is located in Arkansas with a total population of 11,041. It is the 58th most populous county out of 75 in Arkansas.

Age Demographics

The median age in Desha County is 41.2 years. This is 7% higher than the state median of 38.4 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Desha County is $36,064. This is 39% lower than the state median of $58,773. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 54% lower. The poverty rate stands at 28.9%. This is 81% higher than the state poverty rate of 16.0%. With more than one in five residents living below the poverty line, economic hardship is a significant challenge for the community. The unemployment rate is 4.3%. This is 16% lower than the state rate of 5.1%. The median home value is $89,100. Housing costs are 49% lower than the state median of $175,300. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.5x, Desha County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 60.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 9% lower than the state average of 66.1%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Desha County is Black or African American, making up 48.6% of the population. White (non-Hispanic) residents account for 42.8%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (48.6% vs 14.8%).

Education

13.0% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 48% lower than the state rate of 25.1%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 77.9%.