Union County, Arkansas Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Union County is located in Arkansas with a total population of 38,368. It is the 19th most populous county out of 75 in Arkansas. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Union County is 41.5 years. This is 8% higher than the state median of 38.4 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Union County is $50,221. This is 15% lower than the state median of $58,773. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 36% lower. The poverty rate stands at 19.4%. This is 21% higher than the state poverty rate of 16.0%. The unemployment rate is 4.4%. This is 14% lower than the state rate of 5.1%. The median home value is $114,700. Housing costs are 35% lower than the state median of $175,300. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.3x, Union County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 10% higher than the state average of 66.1%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Union County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 59.7% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 32.2%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (32.2% vs 14.8%).

Education

18.9% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 25% 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 88.0%.