Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chidester, AR
Considering a move to Chidester, AR? With a small-town population of just 243, Chidester offers affordable living—median home prices are only $63,000, and rents average $540. Residents enjoy a mild southern climate with 63% sunny days and short 23-minute commutes. While the cost of living is well below the national average, crime rates are slightly above state norms, and local schools are limited, though higher education is available nearby in Camden. Chidester is ideal for those seeking quiet, budget-friendly living in a rural Arkansas setting.
Demographics - Chidester, AR
Demographics - Chidester, AR
Chidester is a small community with a population of 243, where the median age is nearly 47 and the town features a diverse mix of residents, including a majority Black and White population. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a welcoming environment for newcomers seeking a close-knit rural lifestyle.
Population:
243
Density:
273 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.8
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
44.0%
Black:
54.5%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chidester, AR?
Chidester offers a very affordable cost of living, with median home values around $63,000 and average rents at $540 per month. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$63,000
Gross Rent:
$540
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$730
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$310
State Taxes:
Low:
0.9%
|
High:
6.6%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.5
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
39.7
Utilities:
93.2
Transportation:
85.9
Health Care:
88.7
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Chidester, AR a safe place to live?
The town experiences higher-than-average crime rates for its size, with property crime being more common than violent offenses. Residents have a 1 in 244 chance of experiencing a violent crime and a 1 in 48 chance for property crime, so awareness and precaution are recommended.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
410
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,510
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 244
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Chidester, AR year-round?
Chidester enjoys a mild southern climate, with warm summers reaching up to 92°F and mild winters averaging lows in the mid-30s. The area receives about 55 inches of rainfall annually and benefits from 63% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
53°F
Spring
Min:
49°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Households in Chidester have median incomes around $31,200, with many residents working locally or in nearby towns. The poverty rate is higher than average at 26.8%, and most people commute about 23 minutes to work, reflecting the town's rural setting.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$31,200
Family Income:
$35,600
Per Capita Income:
$16,900
Income Male:
$29,800
Income Female:
$24,400
Poverty Rate:
26.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$540
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
23.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
78.4%
Bachelors or More:
8.5%
Education
How are the schools in Chidester, AR?
Chidester's public school options are limited locally, but Fairview Elementary and other schools in nearby Camden provide educational opportunities. Higher education needs are served by Southern Arkansas University Tech, located just 12 miles away, supporting continuing education and workforce training.
Public Schools
Name:
Fairview Elementary School
Street:
1301 Hwy 19 North, Camden, AR 71701
Phone:
870-231-5434
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.9
Colleges
Name:
Southern Arkansas University Tech
City:
Camden
State:
AR
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Local healthcare is anchored by Ouachita County Medical Center in nearby Camden, offering general and emergency services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% health insurance coverage, basic medical care is accessible for most families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Ouachita County Medical Center
Address:
638 California Ave SW, Camden, AR 71701
Phone:
(870) 836-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.8%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chidester, AR?
The housing market in Chidester is stable and highly affordable, with a median home price of $63,000 and owner occupancy at 68%. Rental options are available, though vacancy rates are slightly above average, making it easy to find both homes to buy and rent.
Median Home Price:
$63,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$540
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
12.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, with the main DMV office located in Little Rock and comprehensive services available online.
State:
Arkansas
Department:
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Office of Motor Vehicle
Address:
1900 W 7th St, 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.