Living in and Moving to Pope County, Arkansas

Cost to Move to Pope County, Arkansas

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Following the incredible run of “Don’t Know Tough” in 2022, “Ozark Dogs” in 2023, and “Broiler” in 2024, Pope County writer Eli Cranor will turn his three-peat into a four-peat with “Mississippi Blue 42.” https://t.co/8QQieefRpX

— Arkansas Times (@ArkTimes) January 7, 2025

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Cost of living in Pope County, Arkansas

Housing Costs

The average cost of housing in Pope County, Arkansas, is significantly lower than the national average. As of 2023, the median home price in Pope County is around $160,000, which is much more affordable than the U.S. median of approximately $400,000. Renting is also affordable, with the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment hovering around $700 to $800 per month. For those considering homeownership, mortgage payments will typically be much lower here compared to larger cities. The cost of property taxes in Pope County is approximately 0.62% of the assessed value of the home, which is lower than the Arkansas state average of 0.80%. This makes purchasing a home in Pope County an attractive option for many. Source

Utilities

The cost of utilities in Pope County is relatively low. On average, a basic utilities package that includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for a 915 square foot apartment will cost around $150 to $180 per month. This is in line with or slightly lower than the national average, which can exceed $200 in some parts of the country. The local utility providers include Entergy Arkansas for electricity, and Arkansas Western Gas for natural gas. The cost of heating during winter can rise depending on the size of the home, but overall, residents find utility costs in Pope County to be manageable. Source

Grocery/Food

The cost of groceries in Pope County is slightly below the national average. On average, a typical grocery bill for one person will range between $200 and $250 per month. For a family of four, the monthly grocery bill is approximately $800 to $1,000. Common food items such as bread, eggs, milk, and produce are priced affordably. For example, a gallon of milk costs about $2.90, a loaf of bread around $1.20, and a dozen eggs averages $1.50. These prices are reflective of the low cost of living in rural Arkansas. Source

Transportation

Transportation costs in Pope County are relatively low due to the area’s small size and rural nature. Gasoline prices in the county are generally consistent with the state average, which as of 2023 is around $3.10 per gallon. For those commuting to larger cities such as Little Rock, approximately 90 miles away, the cost of a round-trip drive would be about $15 to $20 depending on vehicle fuel efficiency. Public transportation is limited, and most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting. The average cost for car insurance in Pope County is around $1,200 annually, lower than the U.S. average of $1,500. Source

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Pope County are below the national average. The average cost for a doctor’s visit is approximately $100 to $150, depending on the provider and the type of service. Prescription medication costs can vary, but basic medications such as antibiotics or common prescriptions typically cost between $10 and $30 at local pharmacies. The county is served by several healthcare facilities, including the Baptist Health Medical Center in Russellville. The cost of health insurance for an individual in Arkansas is approximately $450 per month, which is also below the national average. Source

Childcare and Education

Childcare costs in Pope County are relatively affordable. Full-time daycare for an infant typically costs between $500 and $700 per month. For older children, daycare rates are lower, around $400 to $600 per month. The local public school system, including the Russellville School District, offers free education with a wide range of extracurricular programs. For private schooling, tuition fees range from $3,000 to $8,000 per year, depending on the institution. Additionally, there are affordable options for higher education, with the University of the Ozarks offering undergraduate programs at competitive tuition rates of around $25,000 per year. Source

Taxes

The state of Arkansas has a progressive income tax system, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.9%. For residents of Pope County, the average effective state income tax rate is about 4.6%. The local sales tax in Russellville is 9.5%, which includes both state and local taxes. Property taxes in Pope County are relatively low, with a rate of approximately 0.62% of the property’s assessed value. This is below the national average, making the area attractive for homeowners. Source

Insurance

Insurance rates in Pope County are generally lower than the national average. Homeowners’ insurance costs in Arkansas average around $1,200 annually, compared to the national average of $1,500. For auto insurance, residents typically pay between $800 and $1,000 per year for full coverage, depending on their driving history and the type of vehicle. Health insurance premiums are around $450 per month for an individual, which is significantly lower than the national average. Source

Recreation and Entertainment

Recreational activities in Pope County are centered around its beautiful natural surroundings. The cost of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping is very low, with many activities being free or requiring a minimal fee. For example, camping fees in local parks range from $10 to $30 per night. Russellville also offers a variety of local attractions, such as movie theaters and bowling alleys, with an average cost of $10 to $15 for a movie ticket. Residents also enjoy access to the Arkansas River for boating and water sports, which is generally free or requires a small launch fee. Source

Clothing

Clothing costs in Pope County are fairly typical of rural areas. The average cost for a pair of jeans is around $30 to $50, and a basic T-shirt ranges from $10 to $20. Many residents shop at local retailers, and there are also a number of discount stores available. Overall, clothing costs are lower than in larger urban areas, particularly if shopping at outlet or discount retailers. Source

Personal Care

Personal care costs in Pope County are on par with or slightly lower than the national average. A basic haircut typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on the salon. Common personal care products such as shampoo, soap, and toothpaste are priced similarly to national prices, with average costs ranging from $3 to $5 per item. Local spas or wellness centers may offer services such as massages, with prices averaging around $50 to $75 per session. Source

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses in Pope County, such as entertainment, dining out, and other lifestyle costs, are considerably lower than in metropolitan areas. For instance, a meal at a mid-range restaurant will typically cost $15 to $25 per person. Monthly subscriptions to services such as streaming platforms or fitness centers can range from $10 to $50, depending on the service. Overall, residents of Pope County find that their discretionary spending goes further, with a lifestyle that offers great value for money. Source

Is Pope County, Arkansas a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

Pope County, Arkansas has a crime rate that is generally lower than the national average. According to recent data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, the overall crime rate in Pope County is around 2,400 incidents per 100,000 people. This is below the national average for rural counties, which often exceeds 3,000 incidents per 100,000. The crime rate in the county has been relatively stable in recent years, with no major spikes in criminal activity. Source

Violent Crime Rate

The violent crime rate in Pope County is lower than the national average, which makes the area generally safe in this regard. The rate of violent crime in Pope County is approximately 150 incidents per 100,000 people, while the U.S. average stands at around 400 incidents per 100,000. Violent crime in Pope County tends to be concentrated in more urban areas like Russellville, but overall it remains a relatively safe community. Source

Property Crime Rate

Property crime rates in Pope County are also lower than the national average. The property crime rate in the county is approximately 2,000 incidents per 100,000 residents, while the national average is closer to 2,500 incidents. This includes crimes such as burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft. Residents can generally feel confident about the safety of their property, though, like any area, taking precautions is advisable. Source

Police Presence

Pope County is served by the Russellville Police Department and the Pope County Sheriff’s Office, which work together to ensure public safety. Both agencies are well-staffed and maintain a visible presence throughout the county. Russellville has its own police force, while the sheriff’s office serves the rural areas. The county’s law enforcement agencies are active in community policing efforts, making it a priority to reduce crime and maintain public order. In addition, local police frequently partner with state and federal authorities for specialized investigations. Source

Neighborhood Watch Programs

Neighborhood Watch programs are an important part of community safety in Pope County. These programs allow residents to work with local law enforcement to keep an eye on their neighborhoods, deter criminal activity, and report suspicious behavior. While the specific number of active Neighborhood Watch groups is not readily available, there is an ongoing effort in the county to encourage residents to form or join these programs. Local police and the sheriff’s office often provide resources and support for these groups. Source

Safety Rankings

Pope County has consistently ranked as one of the safer counties in Arkansas in terms of crime rates. Based on overall crime statistics, it is considered a safer place to live compared to many other rural areas in the state. According to the most recent safety rankings from NeighborhoodScout, Russellville, the county’s largest city, has a crime rate that is lower than 68% of cities in Arkansas. This suggests that Pope County offers a relatively safe environment for families and individuals. Source

Trend Data

Crime trends in Pope County have generally been stable or declining over recent years. For example, the rate of violent crime has seen a slight decline, while property crimes have remained relatively steady. According to data from the Arkansas Crime Information Center, the violent crime rate in Pope County has decreased by approximately 10% over the past five years. This downward trend indicates an improving safety environment for residents. Source

School Safety

School safety is a significant concern for many families, and Pope County has taken steps to ensure that local schools are secure. The Russellville School District, which serves a large portion of the county, implements comprehensive safety measures including school resource officers, security cameras, and regular safety drills. In 2023, there were no reported major safety incidents in the local schools, which contributes to the area’s reputation as a safe place for families. Source

What are the demographics of Pope County, Arkansas?

White

The majority of the population in Pope County, Arkansas is White. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census data, approximately 82.7% of the population in Pope County identifies as White alone. This percentage represents the largest racial group in the county.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Black or African American

Black or African American individuals make up about 12.8% of the population of Pope County, Arkansas, based on the most recent census data. This group is the second-largest racial group in the county.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Hispanic or Latino

In Pope County, 7.2% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino. This demographic group has seen steady growth in the county over the past few decades.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Two or More Races

Individuals identifying as Two or More Races represent about 2.4% of the population in Pope County, Arkansas, based on the 2020 Census data.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Asian

The Asian population in Pope County is relatively small, comprising around 0.8% of the total population based on the latest census data.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Native American

Native American residents represent approximately 1.1% of Pope County’s population as per the 2020 Census data.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

The population of Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander individuals in Pope County is quite small, with less than 0.1% of the total population identifying as such based on the most recent data available from the 2020 Census.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Sources

• U.S. Census Bureau – 2020 Census

Pope County, Arkansas Population by Age and Gender

The total population of Pope County, Arkansas is approximately 64,000 as of the 2020 U.S. Census. The county’s population has experienced moderate growth in recent years. Below is a breakdown of the county’s demographics, including gender, age, and other relevant statistics.

Total Population by Gender

In Pope County, the gender distribution is approximately 48% male and 52% female. This reflects a common trend in many parts of the U.S., where females outnumber males slightly in most regions.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County 2020 Census

Age Distribution

The age distribution in Pope County is relatively balanced, though there is a noticeable concentration of residents in the middle age ranges. The breakdown is as follows:

• Under 18 years: 21.3%
• 18-24 years: 9.5%
• 25-44 years: 23.2%
• 45-64 years: 25.6%
• 65 years and over: 20.4%

These age groups show a sizable portion of the population in the working-age and retirement age groups, with a slightly smaller share of children and young adults.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County 2020 Census

Median Age

The median age in Pope County is 38.4 years, which is slightly above the state average for Arkansas, indicating a somewhat older population relative to other areas in the state.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County 2020 Census

Dependency Ratios

The dependency ratio in Pope County is approximately 45.6%. This means that for every 100 working-age individuals, there are about 45 individuals dependent on them, either due to being children or elderly. This ratio suggests a moderate level of dependency within the population.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Dependency Ratio

Population Pyramid

The population pyramid of Pope County shows a relatively even distribution of residents across age groups, with a slightly larger proportion of older individuals, particularly in the 45-64 age range. The pyramid reflects a healthy balance between younger and older generations.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County 2020 Census

Life Expectancy by Gender

The life expectancy in Pope County mirrors the national average, with men living to an average age of 74 years and women living to an average age of 79 years. This reflects a typical gender gap in life expectancy observed across the U.S.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Life Expectancy Data

Sex Ratio

The sex ratio in Pope County is approximately 95 males for every 100 females. This is relatively typical for many regions in the U.S., where females slightly outnumber males in the overall population.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County 2020 Census

Population Growth Rates

Pope County has experienced moderate population growth over the past decade. From 2010 to 2020, the population increased by about 4.5%, reflecting steady, though not rapid, growth compared to other regions in the U.S.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Population Growth Rates

Fertility Rates

The fertility rate in Pope County is consistent with the state average of approximately 2.1 children per woman, indicating a stable birth rate that mirrors national trends.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Fertility Rates

Mortality Rates

The mortality rate in Pope County is similar to the national average, with major causes of death including heart disease, cancer, and respiratory diseases. The overall mortality rate reflects broader national trends in health issues affecting aging populations.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Mortality Data

Marital Status by Age and Gender

In Pope County, the percentage of married individuals is approximately 50%. Among those aged 35-44 years, about 60% are married, while the percentage decreases in older and younger age groups.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Marital Status

Educational Attainment by Age and Gender

Pope County has a relatively high percentage of residents with a high school diploma, around 90%. However, the proportion of individuals with a bachelor’s degree is lower than the national average, reflecting a regional trend towards less formal higher education.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Educational Attainment

Economic Participation by Age and Gender

Labor force participation in Pope County is about 60%, with males having a higher participation rate than females. This reflects typical trends where men tend to have a higher rate of full-time employment than women in many areas.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau – Labor Force Participation

Health Statistics by Age and Gender

The overall health statistics in Pope County align closely with national averages, with heart disease, cancer, and diabetes being the leading health concerns. Health outcomes are generally affected by the county’s rural nature and limited access to healthcare in some areas.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Health Statistics

Pope County, Arkansas Zip Codes

Pope County, Arkansas, primarily has the following ZIP codes:

• 72801
• 72802
• 72811
• 72830
• 72832
• 72834
• 72837
• 72840
• 72853
• 72858

This ZIP code covers the majority of the Pope County, Arkansas area.

What is the history of Pope County, Arkansas?

Pope County, Arkansas, located in the central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was officially established in 1829, named after John Pope, a U.S. Senator from Kentucky and territorial governor of Arkansas. Prior to its establishment as a county, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Osage, Cherokee, and Quapaw. The settlement of European Americans began in the early 1800s, as explorers and settlers moved westward, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources.

Early Settlements and Development

In the early 1800s, the area that would become Pope County was largely unsettled wilderness, with a few scattered homesteads. The first known European-American settlers began arriving in the region around 1815, primarily from the southern states. The fertile soil along the Arkansas River and its tributaries made the area ideal for farming, and many early settlers grew cotton, corn, and other crops. The founding of Russellville, the county seat, in 1836 marked the beginning of urbanization in Pope County. Russellville was named after an early settler, Hugh Russell, who was instrumental in the town’s development.

The Civil War Era

During the Civil War, Pope County, like much of Arkansas, was deeply divided. Arkansas was a Confederate state, but there were pockets of Union sympathizers in Pope County. The county saw significant military activity, with both Confederate and Union forces occupying the area at various times. The Arkansas River served as a key transportation route, making it an important strategic location. The war caused economic hardship in the region, as many men enlisted, and agricultural production was disrupted. After the war, Pope County faced the difficult task of rebuilding its economy and infrastructure.

The Growth of Agriculture and Railroads

Following the Civil War, Pope County’s economy grew rapidly due to agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The development of the railroad in the late 19th century further stimulated economic growth, as it provided an easier means of transporting goods. The St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway, which reached Russellville in the 1870s, was instrumental in linking Pope County to larger markets. This expansion of transportation infrastructure helped transform Russellville into a commercial hub and spurred the growth of other towns and communities throughout the county.

20th Century to Present

The 20th century saw Pope County’s continued growth and diversification. While agriculture remained an important part of the economy, industries such as timber, mining, and manufacturing began to play a larger role. Russellville, as the county seat, became the center of commercial, educational, and cultural activity. In the latter half of the century, the establishment of Arkansas Tech University in 1909 brought higher education to the region, further contributing to the county’s development. The university has since become one of the state’s leading institutions of higher learning, providing educational and economic opportunities to the local population.

Today, Pope County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the Ouachita Mountains and the Arkansas River, as well as its strong sense of community. While the county has evolved over the years, it retains much of its rural charm and small-town feel. The county continues to thrive with a diversified economy, which includes education, healthcare, and manufacturing, as well as a strong agricultural base. The history of Pope County is a testament to the resilience and spirit of its people, who have weathered challenges and continue to shape the future of this vibrant region.

Sources

• Encyclopedia of Arkansas: Pope County
• Pope County Government Website

Pope County, Arkansas Weather

Average Temperature (by Month)

The average temperature in Pope County, Arkansas varies throughout the year, with summers typically being hot and humid and winters being mild. Below are the average temperatures by month:

• January: 42°F (5.5°C)
• February: 46°F (7.7°C)
• March: 54°F (12.2°C)
• April: 63°F (17.2°C)
• May: 71°F (21.7°C)
• June: 78°F (25.6°C)
• July: 82°F (27.8°C)
• August: 81°F (27.2°C)
• September: 74°F (23.3°C)
• October: 62°F (16.7°C)
• November: 51°F (10.6°C)
• December: 43°F (6.1°C)

Source: The Weather Channel – Average Monthly Temperatures

Precipitation (Rain) Patterns

Pope County, Arkansas experiences an average of 50 to 55 inches (1270 to 1397 mm) of rain per year. The wettest months are typically in the spring and fall, with the heaviest rainfall occurring from March to May. Summer thunderstorms also contribute to the annual rainfall totals.

Source: US Climate Data – Russellville, AR

Extreme Weather Events

Pope County, Arkansas is susceptible to extreme weather events, particularly thunderstorms, tornadoes, and severe storms. The county falls within “Tornado Alley,” meaning tornadoes can be a significant risk, particularly in the spring months. Severe thunderstorms, including hail, heavy rain, and occasional flooding, also occur frequently during the warmer months.

Source: National Weather Service – Tornado Information

Humidity Levels

Humidity in Pope County is generally high throughout the year due to its location in the southeastern United States. In summer months, humidity levels often exceed 70%, making it feel hotter than the actual air temperature. Winter months have lower humidity but still remain relatively high compared to more northern regions of the U.S.

Source: US Climate Data – Russellville, AR

Sunlight

Pope County experiences an average of 210 sunny days per year, which is slightly above the national average of 205 sunny days. Summers see long days with extended sunlight, while winter months have shorter days but still adequate sunshine for outdoor activities.

Source: US Climate Data – Russellville, AR

Wind Patterns

The average wind speed in Pope County is about 10 mph (16 km/h), with slightly stronger winds in the spring months due to storm systems and weather fronts passing through the area. The wind is often higher during severe weather events, such as thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Source: National Weather Service – Wind Patterns

Weather Comparison with Arkansas State and the U.S.

When comparing Pope County’s weather to the state of Arkansas, the temperatures, precipitation, and humidity are fairly typical for the region. Arkansas as a whole receives about 50 inches of rain annually and experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. Compared to the national average, Pope County tends to experience warmer temperatures and more precipitation, especially during the summer months.

Sources

• The Weather Channel – Average Monthly Temperatures
• US Climate Data – Russellville, AR
• National Weather Service – Tornado Information
• National Weather Service – Wind Patterns

Average Income in Pope County, Arkansas

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in Pope County, Arkansas is approximately $40,000. This figure varies based on occupation, experience, and education level. The average salary is slightly lower than the state and national averages due to the area’s rural nature and the prevalence of lower-wage industries.

Source: Salary.com – Salary Research

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage in Pope County, Arkansas is approximately $18.50. The wage rate tends to be lower in comparison to other regions in the U.S. due to the lower cost of living and concentration of service and agriculture-related jobs.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Arkansas Wage Data

Most Popular Jobs/Careers

The most common careers in Pope County include retail workers, healthcare professionals, teachers, and manufacturing laborers. Jobs in retail, food service, and health services tend to dominate the area’s employment landscape.

Source: CareerExplorer – Pope County Careers

Compare Income Statistics with Arkansas and the U.S.

When compared to the state of Arkansas, Pope County has a lower median income. The average household income for Arkansas is approximately $49,000, which is higher than Pope County’s average. Additionally, the national average income is around $70,000, which is significantly higher than the county’s average income.

Sources

• Salary.com – Salary Research
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Arkansas Wage Data
• CareerExplorer – Pope County Careers

Taxes in Pope County, Arkansas

Property Taxes

Property taxes in Pope County, Arkansas are assessed by the Pope County Assessor’s office. The general property tax rate is 1.0% of the assessed value of the property. The county follows Arkansas’ guidelines for property tax assessments, which means that the taxable value of property is based on its market value, less any exemptions or deductions for specific property types (such as homestead exemptions).

Source: Pope County Assessor’s Office

Sales Taxes

The combined sales tax rate in Pope County, Arkansas is 9.5%. This includes a state sales tax of 6.5%, along with local sales taxes of 3.0% specific to the county. This tax applies to most goods and services, with exceptions for certain items like groceries, which are taxed at a reduced rate in Arkansas.

Source: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Sales Tax

Income Taxes

Arkansas has a state income tax that is progressive. The income tax rate for individuals in Arkansas ranges from 2.0% to 5.9%, depending on the income level. The top rate applies to income over $84,000. However, for the majority of Pope County residents, the effective income tax rate is closer to the lower range of the scale.

Source: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Income Tax

Utility Taxes

Utility taxes in Pope County generally apply to services such as water, electricity, natural gas, and telecommunication services. The tax rates on utilities vary by service provider and are subject to local regulations. These taxes are typically collected as part of the monthly utility bill.

Source: Arkansas State Government – Utility Tax Information

Hotel Occupancy Tax

Pope County levies a hotel occupancy tax of 2.0% on hotel room rentals. This tax is charged on each room stay and is used to fund tourism and economic development programs in the area.

Source: Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism

Tax Payment Schedule

Property taxes are generally due by October 15th each year, with a penalty added after that date if payment is not made. Sales tax returns are typically filed on a monthly or quarterly basis, depending on the business’s revenue. Income taxes are due on April 15th, as per federal tax guidelines.

Source: Arkansas State Government – Tax Payment Schedule

Penalties for Late Payment

For late payment of property taxes in Pope County, a penalty of 10% is applied if the taxes are not paid by the due date. Income tax filers in Arkansas are subject to interest and penalties for late payments, with the interest rate currently set at 10% annually on unpaid balances.

Source: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Late Payment Penalties

Where to Pay

Property taxes in Pope County can be paid online through the Pope County Treasurer’s website or in person at the Treasurer’s office. Income tax payments can be made online through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration’s e-file system.

Source: Pope County Assessor’s Office – Payment Information

Compare Tax Statistics with Arkansas and the U.S.

Pope County’s tax rates, particularly in terms of sales and property taxes, are fairly typical compared to the state of Arkansas. Arkansas has a state income tax rate that is also progressive, similar to other states in the U.S., though its overall tax burden tends to be lower than the national average. The property tax rate is in line with other rural counties in the U.S.

Sources

• Pope County Assessor’s Office
• Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Sales Tax
• Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Income Tax
• Arkansas State Government – Utility Tax Information
• Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism
• Arkansas State Government – Tax Payment Schedule

Is Pope County, Arkansas a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

Pope County, Arkansas offers a variety of events and activities that are ideal for singles looking to explore their interests and meet new people. Some of the local activities include outdoor festivals, live music performances, community gatherings, and seasonal events such as the Pope County Fair and the Russellville Farmers Market. These events foster a sense of community and provide plenty of opportunities for socializing.

For more information on local events, check out the Pope County Tourism website: Pope County Events

Gyms

If you are into fitness, Pope County offers several gyms and fitness centers for singles looking to stay healthy while meeting people. Some of the popular gyms in the area include:

• YMCA of Russellville – A family-friendly gym offering fitness classes and equipment.
• Snap Fitness – A 24/7 gym providing fitness equipment and personal training services.

Housing

Rentals in Pope County, Arkansas are generally affordable, with a mix of apartments, townhomes, and houses available. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $600 per month. Rental websites like Zillow and Apartments.com provide listings for singles looking for housing. Depending on your preferences, you can find properties that range from small units to larger homes in and around the city of Russellville.

To find rental listings, visit Zillow Russellville Rental Listings.

Percentage of Single Residents

As of the most recent census data, approximately 45% of the adult population in Pope County, Arkansas is unmarried. This indicates a fairly high proportion of singles living in the area, making it a good environment for individuals seeking connections.

For more detailed statistics, visit the U.S. Census Bureau: Census Data for Pope County

Compare the Single Statistics with Arkansas and the U.S.

In comparison, the percentage of unmarried individuals in Pope County is slightly higher than the state average for Arkansas, which is around 40%. When comparing this to the national average, about 50% of the U.S. adult population is unmarried, so Pope County is somewhat on par with the national trend.

Sources

• Pope County Events
• Yelp – Gyms in Russellville
• Zillow – Russellville Rental Listings
• U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County Statistics

Is Pope County, Arkansas Good for Families?

Pope County, Arkansas is a good place for families looking for a quieter, more affordable lifestyle. The area has a lower cost of living, which includes relatively low housing prices compared to national averages. It offers a strong sense of community, good schools, and access to outdoor activities. While the area does experience some severe weather, including occasional tornadoes, the crime rate is lower than in many urban areas. Employment opportunities are moderate, with many working in sectors like retail, healthcare, and manufacturing.

Parks and Family Activities

Pope County offers a variety of parks and family-friendly activities. For example, Lake Dardanelle State Park provides families with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. Russellville is home to the Ozark Highlands Trail, ideal for outdoor exploration. In addition to these, Pope County also hosts local events like the Pope County Fair, which features games, entertainment, and food.

For more family activities in Pope County, visit Lake Dardanelle State Park.

Restaurants

There are several restaurant options in Pope County, offering a range of cuisines. Families will find Italian, Mexican, BBQ, and American restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes.

• Italian Restaurants in Russellville, AR
• Mexican Restaurants in Russellville, AR
• BBQ Restaurants in Russellville, AR
• American Restaurants in Russellville, AR

Housing

For families looking to purchase a home, Pope County offers a range of affordable housing options. The median home price in Russellville, the county seat, is lower than both the state and national averages. Families can find homes in neighborhoods close to parks and schools. Homes for sale range from charming historic houses to more modern suburban homes.

To explore homes for sale, check out Zillow – Homes for Sale in Russellville.

Percentage of Family Residents

In Pope County, approximately 60% of households are classified as families, which indicates a strong family presence in the area. This is higher than the state average of about 55%, showing that Pope County is a popular area for families to settle in.

For more details on population and family statistics, visit the U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County Statistics.

Compare the Married Statistics with Arkansas and the U.S.

The percentage of married individuals in Pope County is 50%, which is slightly higher than the Arkansas state average of 48%. On a national level, the U.S. sees approximately 50% of individuals who are married, placing Pope County on par with the national trend.

Sources

• Lake Dardanelle State Park
• Italian Restaurants in Russellville, AR
• Mexican Restaurants in Russellville, AR
• BBQ Restaurants in Russellville, AR
• American Restaurants in Russellville, AR
• Zillow – Homes for Sale in Russellville
• U.S. Census Bureau – Pope County Statistics

How are the schools in Pope County, Arkansas?

Pope County, Arkansas offers a variety of educational opportunities for families, ranging from Pre-K through college. The public school system is funded through state and local taxes, with additional federal funding for specific programs. According to recent data, the average funding per student in the district is about $8,500 annually. Academic performance varies by school, with several institutions in the area performing at or above state averages. The schools emphasize a balance of academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. Below, you will find an overview of schools in Pope County, including their grade levels and academic offerings.

Pre-K Schools

Pope County has several options for Pre-K education, primarily through public and private early childhood programs. One of the prominent options is the Russellville School District’s Pre-K Program, which focuses on early literacy and social skills development. These programs are designed to prepare young children for kindergarten and beyond. The Pre-K programs in Pope County are well-regarded for their experienced teachers and low student-to-teacher ratios.

Kindergarten Schools

For kindergarten education, schools in Pope County typically operate through public school districts. Russellville Elementary Schools serve students in grades K-5, offering a nurturing environment for young children. These schools focus on foundational literacy, math skills, and social development. The district’s kindergarten programs are funded through state and federal education grants, providing resources for teaching assistants and enrichment activities.

Elementary Schools

Pope County offers a variety of elementary schools catering to grades 1-5. Notable examples include Riley Heights Elementary and Sequoyah Elementary in Russellville. These schools emphasize early literacy, STEM education, and extracurricular activities such as music and sports. The schools are generally well-funded and provide ample resources for students’ educational needs, helping to ensure academic achievement across subjects.

Middle Schools

Pope County’s middle schools, such as Russellville Middle School, serve students in grades 6-8. These schools offer a transition from elementary education, with a focus on more specialized subjects including math, science, English, and social studies. The middle schools also provide opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, including sports, band, and art. Russellville Middle School is particularly known for its strong academic performance, receiving accolades for its high test scores and committed teachers.

High Schools

High schools in Pope County include Russellville High School, which offers a broad curriculum including AP courses, vocational programs, and a range of sports and extracurricular activities. Russellville High School’s graduation rate is higher than the state average, and it is known for its dedicated teaching staff. The school also has a strong college-prep focus, providing students with the skills needed to attend universities or pursue other higher education opportunities.

Colleges & Universities

For higher education, Pope County is home to Arkansas Tech University in Russellville. This university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in engineering, business, education, and the arts. Arkansas Tech University provides a vibrant campus life, including clubs, athletic teams, and community service opportunities. It plays a significant role in local economic development, helping to support the community by educating future professionals.

Churches in Pope County, Arkansas

• First Baptist Church of Russellville
• First Presbyterian Church of Russellville
• Russellville United Methodist Church
• Calvary Baptist Church – Russellville
• Rockwood Baptist Church
• Saint John’s Catholic Church – No website found
• Central Baptist Church – No website found
• The Grove – Russellville

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Pope County, Arkansas

Pope County, Arkansas, offers an ideal balance of natural beauty, affordability, and a close-knit community, making it an excellent choice for anyone considering a move. With its stunning outdoor attractions, such as Mount Nebo and Lake Dardanelle, the county provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. The cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, particularly when it comes to housing, making it an attractive option for families, singles, and retirees alike.
The schools in Pope County are well-regarded, offering quality education from pre-K through high school, and the presence of Arkansas Tech University ensures access to higher education close to home. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere in local towns like Russellville provides a sense of security and belonging, while still offering access to the amenities and services that make life convenient. Whether you’re seeking a slower pace of life or a place with ample recreational options, Pope County delivers it all in a beautiful, affordable package. Moving to Pope County means joining a community that values its natural surroundings, offers a range of opportunities, and ensures that you and your family can thrive.