Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Fork, AR
Considering a move to Big Fork, AR? This small, rural town of about 240 offers low housing costs with a median home price around $95,000 and average rent of $650. Residents enjoy a low overall cost of living, peaceful natural surroundings, and a slower pace. Commutes average about 30 minutes, and the area has a strong owner-occupied housing rate. While educational attainment and income levels are modest, the climate is mild with 63% sunny days per year, making it ideal for those seeking affordability and tranquility in the Arkansas countryside.
Demographics - Big Fork, AR
Demographics - Big Fork, AR
Big Fork, AR is a close-knit rural community with a population of about 240 and a low density of 15 people per square mile. The median age is 48.2, reflecting a mature population, and the area is predominantly White, with a small percentage of non-English speakers. The gender ratio is balanced, making it a welcoming place for families and retirees alike.
Population:
240
Density:
15 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Fork, AR?
Big Fork offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $95,000 and average rent around $650. Utilities and transportation costs are below the national average, and the overall cost of living index is a low 79.5, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. State taxes are moderate, further contributing to the area's affordability.
Median House Value:
$95,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$790
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.5
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
54.6
Utilities:
92.7
Transportation:
84.2
Health Care:
87.5
Miscellaneous:
82.8
Crime
Is Big Fork, AR a safe place to live?
The crime rate in Big Fork is relatively low, with a chance of violent crime at 1 in 323 and property crime at 1 in 58. The area provides a generally safe environment, which is appealing for residents seeking peace of mind in a small-town setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
310
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,720
Crime Index:
2,030
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 323
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 58
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Fork, AR year-round?
Residents of Big Fork enjoy a mild climate, with winter lows averaging 30°F and summer highs reaching up to 91°F. The area receives about 54 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 63% sunny days, making it inviting for those who appreciate a balance of seasons and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
30°F
Max:
53°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Big Fork's community is characterized by modest incomes, with a median household income of $39,800 and a family income of $48,200. The poverty rate is 18.5%, and about 80% of residents have at least a high school diploma. Commute times average around 29.5 minutes, and residents mostly rely on personal vehicles, reflecting the rural lifestyle.
Median Income:
$25,000
Household Income:
$39,800
Family Income:
$48,200
Per Capita Income:
$20,700
Income Male:
$30,000
Income Female:
$22,000
Poverty Rate:
18.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
29.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.1%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Big Fork, AR?
Big Fork is served by local public schools such as Cossatot River High School and Vandervoort Elementary, offering small class sizes and a student-focused environment. Higher education opportunities can be found nearby at Rich Mountain Community College, located just 18 miles away in Mena. The community values education, with over 80% of residents holding a high school diploma or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Cossatot River High School
Street:
6330 US-71, Cove, AR 71937
Phone:
870-385-7101
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Name:
Vandervoort Elementary School
Street:
9706 US-59, Vandervoort, AR 71972
Phone:
870-389-5661
Students:
145
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Colleges
Name:
Rich Mountain Community College
City:
Mena
State:
AR
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Big Fork is supported by access to Mena Regional Health System, a general and surgical hospital offering emergency services nearby. The area has 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and about 85% of locals have health insurance. Healthcare services are accessible, meeting the essential needs of the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mena Regional Health System
Address:
311 Morrow St N, Mena, AR 71953
Phone:
(479) 394-6100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
85.2%
Health Care Index:
67.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Fork, AR?
The housing market in Big Fork is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $95,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 77%. The average rent for a two-bedroom is $650, and the area sees steady home appreciation, making it a practical choice for buyers and renters seeking value.
Median Home Price:
$95,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
12.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Driver services for Big Fork residents are provided by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, located in Little Rock. The department offers comprehensive DMV services, including licensing and vehicle registration, with information available online for convenience.
State:
Arkansas
Department:
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Driver Services
Address:
1900 W 7th St, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone:
1-501-682-7059
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.