Lafayette County, Arkansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Lafayette County is located in Arkansas with a total population of 6,211. It is the 73rd most populous county out of 75 in Arkansas. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Lafayette County is 48.5 years. This is 26% higher than the state median of 38.4 years. 10.5% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Lafayette County is $37,237. This is 37% lower than the state median of $58,773. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 53% lower. The poverty rate stands at 27.2%. This is 70% 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 8.8%. This is 73% higher than the state rate of 5.1%. The median home value is $74,600. Housing costs are 57% lower than the state median of $175,300. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.0x, Lafayette County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 77.2% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 17% higher than the state average of 66.1%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Lafayette County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 57.7% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 35.8%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (35.8% vs 14.8%). The Hispanic or Latino population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 8.8%.

Education

9.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 63% 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 81.6%.