RentData

Average Rent in Polk County, AR↑ Rents rising 1.3% YoY🔻 3rd cheapest in AR

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 19,348

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Polk County, AR has rental prices ranging from $646/month to $1,232/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $759/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $49,252/year, spending $759/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Polk County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $909/month, Polk County ranks #68 most expensive of the 70 cities tracked in Arkansas — more affordable than 94% of all US cities in our data.

The Polk County Rental Market

The Polk County, AR area has a population of about 19,348 and 18% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Polk County, AR have risen by $12/month (1.3%) over the past year, from $897 to $909. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Polk County, AR without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,360. The local median household income of $49,252 exceeds that threshold by $18,892, making Polk County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Polk County, AR has an unemployment rate of 5.2%, 1.3 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$646
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$759
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$909
↑1.3% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,083
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,232
Average
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Is Polk County, AR Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$36,360/year
Local median income: $49,252
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $909/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in ARlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Memphis$1,095$1,191$1,301$1,717—
Little Rock$964$969$1,121$1,504—
Fayetteville$916$1,056$1,256$1,739—
Franklin County$642$646$848$1,060—
Fort Smith$741$748$979$1,324—
Texarkana$839$874$1,118$1,403—

Rent or Buy in Polk County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Polk County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$909/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏢 Rent

Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $909/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Polk County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Polk County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in Polk County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in AR

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⚖️Compare Polk County

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📋AR Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections