Arkansas County, AR
16,512 residents · 992 sq mi · 16.6/sq mi · 53% rural
About Arkansas County
Arkansas County, officially the County of Arkansas, is a county located in the U.S. state of Arkansas. As of the 2020 census, the population was 17,149. Located in the Arkansas Delta, the county has two county seats, DeWitt and Stuttgart. The first of the state's 75 present-day counties to be created, Arkansas County was formed from New Madrid County on December 13, 1813, when this area was part of the Missouri Territory. The county was named after the Arkansas River, as was the subsequent Arkansas Territory which was later split off from Missouri Territory and eventually admitted to the union as a state. The riverfront areas in the Arkansas Delta were developed for cotton plantations that used enslaved African Americans. Cotton was the major commodity crop before and after the Civil War. Since then, the county lies within the largest rice-growing region in the United States. Arkansas County is one of seven present-day counties in the United States that have the same name as the state in which they are located.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 62.8°F and an average of 50.6 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is relatively long, which supports diverse agricultural activities, ideal for self-sufficient living. However, the terrain is mostly flat with some rural expanses, which may limit certain types of farming or livestock management. Water resources are generally adequate, but reliance on local sources should be evaluated.
Natural hazards present notable risks, with earthquakes ranked at 92 and strong winds at 82 on the FEMA scale, indicating a significant likelihood of these events. Ice storms (81) and tornadoes (70) also pose threats, requiring preparedness for severe weather conditions. The area has a relatively high violence percentile of 94, which may raise concerns for personal safety. Additionally, while the median home price is $125,900, the cost of living can fluctuate based on local economic conditions.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with the potential for self-sufficiency, particularly those accustomed to dealing with natural hazards. However, it may not suit those who prefer urban amenities or are less comfortable with the risks associated with severe weather. A dealbreaker for some might be the area's vulnerability to earthquakes and tornadoes, while others may find the low property tax rate and affordable housing appealing.