Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bates, AR
Considering a move to Bates, AR? This small, rural town of about 95 residents offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home values around $80,000 and rent near $525. Enjoy a relaxed pace, low population density, and warm Southern climate with 62% sunny days annually. While crime rates are higher than average for rural areas, commutes are short (26 minutes), and nearby schools and healthcare are accessible in neighboring towns. If you’re seeking rural tranquility and low living costs, Bates may be your perfect fit.
Demographics - Bates, AR
Bates, Arkansas is a quiet, rural town with a population of just 95, featuring a median age of 44 and a predominantly White community. Its low population density allows for plenty of open space, making it an appealing location for those seeking a slower pace of life. The community is close-knit, with a nearly even gender balance and a small percentage of non-English speakers.
Population:
95
Density:
14 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bates, AR?
The cost of living in Bates is notably affordable, with a median home value of $80,000 and average rent at $525 per month. Utilities and daily expenses remain below the national average, making Bates a financially attractive choice for budget-conscious residents. State taxes are modest, further contributing to the area's low overall living costs.
Median House Value:
$80,000
Gross Rent:
$525
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$780
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
60.5
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
89.0
Miscellaneous:
83.0
Crime
Is Bates, AR a safe place to live?
While Bates offers rural tranquility, crime rates are higher than typical for such a small community, with property crime being more prevalent than violent crime. Residents have a 1 in 317 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 48 chance for property crime. It's important for newcomers to remain vigilant and consider local safety measures.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
315
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,415
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 317
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Bates, AR year-round?
Bates experiences a classic Southern climate, with mild winters averaging lows of 29°F and warm summers reaching highs of 92°F. The area enjoys generous rainfall, totaling about 51 inches annually, and boasts 62% sunny days, making outdoor activities enjoyable for much of the year. Seasonal changes bring comfortable springs and pleasant autumns.

Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
49°F

Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
51.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community in Bates is characterized by modest incomes, with a median household income of $35,500 and a poverty rate close to 20%. Most residents commute about 26 minutes to work, and public transportation is not commonly used. Educational attainment is moderate, with nearly 80% having at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$35,500
Family Income:
$38,400
Per Capita Income:
$19,300
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$25,000
Poverty Rate:
19.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$525
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
26.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
79.8%
Bachelors or More:
11.5%
Education
How are the schools in Bates, AR?
Public education in Bates is served by Waldron High School, offering a student-teacher ratio of 13.5 for its 350 students. While there are no private schools in town, higher education opportunities are available nearby, such as the University of Arkansas – Rich Mountain located 27 miles away in Mena. Families benefit from accessible educational resources within a reasonable commute.

Public Schools
Name:
Waldron High School
Street:
736 W 6th St
Phone:
479-637-3151
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
University of Arkansas – Rich Mountain
City:
Mena
State:
AR
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Bates residents have access to essential healthcare services, including the nearby Mercy Hospital Waldron, which offers emergency care as a critical access facility. With approximately 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people and 86% health insurance coverage, basic healthcare needs are met within a short drive. The area maintains a health care index of 65.0, reflecting adequate but limited local resources.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Hospital Waldron
Address:
1341 W 6th St, Waldron, AR 72958
Phone:
(479) 637-4155
Type:
Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.0%
Health Care Index:
65.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bates, AR?
The housing market in Bates is highly accessible, with a median home price of $80,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of 77%. Rental options are available, with a low average rent of $525 for a two-bedroom unit, and home values have appreciated modestly over the past year. The market is stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$80,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$525
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.5%
DMV Information
Bates falls under the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration for all motor vehicle services, with the main office located in Little Rock. Residents can access information, renewals, and licensing through the state’s convenient DMV website or by phone. Local services may require travel to nearby towns for in-person transactions.
State:
Arkansas
Department:
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Office of Motor Vehicle
Address:
1816 W. 7th Street, Room 1010, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone:
1-501-682-4692
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.