Everything You Should Know Before Moving to El Dorado, AR
Considering a move to El Dorado, AR? This friendly city of 17,651 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $109,400 and average rents at $780. Enjoy a short 17-minute average commute and a warm climate with 63% sunny days yearly. El Dorado features strong community schools, local college options, and a major hospital, though property crime rates are above national averages. Explore affordable housing, Southern hospitality, and vibrant festivals as you plan your move!
Demographics - El Dorado, AR
Demographics - El Dorado, AR
El Dorado is home to approximately 17,651 residents, offering a balanced community with a median age of 38.6 and a diverse population that is nearly evenly split between White and Black residents. The city has a moderate population density and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
17,651
Density:
890 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.6
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
49.7%
Black:
45.2%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in El Dorado, AR?
Living in El Dorado is budget-friendly, with a median home value of about $109,400 and average rents around $780, making it an attractive option for affordable housing. The cost of living index sits well below the national average, and everyday expenses like utilities and groceries tend to be manageable for most households.
Median House Value:
$109,400
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,280
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,140
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.8
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
53.1
Utilities:
93.7
Transportation:
83.5
Health Care:
87.4
Miscellaneous:
82.8
Crime
Is El Dorado, AR a safe place to live?
El Dorado experiences higher-than-average property crime, with a 1 in 31 chance annually, while violent crime occurs less frequently at a rate of 1 in 192. Residents should stay aware of safety precautions, but the community remains committed to fostering a secure and welcoming atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
522
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,211
Crime Index:
3,733
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 192
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 31
Weather
What is the weather like in El Dorado, AR year-round?
El Dorado enjoys a warm southern climate with mild winters and hot, sunny summers, and experiences around 63% sunny days each year. The city sees significant rainfall, averaging 55 inches annually, making it lush and green throughout much of the year.

Winter
Min:
33°F
Max:
54°F

Spring
Min:
51°F
Max:
74°F

Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
55.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
El Dorado’s residents have a median household income of about $44,100 and an average commute time of under 17 minutes, contributing to a convenient lifestyle. While the poverty rate is higher than average at 22.1%, the community values education, with over 84% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$29,700
Household Income:
$44,100
Family Income:
$55,800
Per Capita Income:
$24,200
Income Male:
$42,500
Income Female:
$29,600
Poverty Rate:
22.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
16.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.2%
Bachelors or More:
18.6%
Education
How are the schools in El Dorado, AR?
Families in El Dorado benefit from a range of educational opportunities, including well-regarded public schools like El Dorado High School and nearby higher education at South Arkansas Community College. With a favorable student-teacher ratio and access to both public and private schooling, the city supports learners at every stage.

Public Schools
Name:
El Dorado High School
Street:
501 Timberlane Dr
Phone:
870-864-5100
Students:
1,250
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Name:
Yocum Elementary School
Street:
601 NW Avenue
Phone:
870-864-5081
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8

Private Schools
Name:
Holy Redeemer Catholic School
Street:
440 W Main St
Phone:
870-862-5474
Students:
110

Colleges
Name:
South Arkansas Community College
City:
El Dorado
State:
AR
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,500
Name:
Southern Arkansas University
City:
Magnolia
State:
AR
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
4,100
Healthcare
El Dorado offers accessible healthcare services, anchored by the Medical Center of South Arkansas and supported by a solid ratio of 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents. Nearly 88% of the population has health insurance, ensuring most residents can access necessary medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Medical Center of South Arkansas
Address:
700 W Grove St, El Dorado, AR 71730
Phone:
(870) 863-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.8%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in El Dorado, AR?
The local housing market is affordable, with median home prices around $109,400 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 61%. Rental options remain readily available due to a relatively high vacancy rate, and the area has seen steady home appreciation over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$109,400
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
El Dorado residents are served by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration’s Office of Motor Vehicle, providing DMV services through the statewide office in Little Rock and online resources for convenient access to vehicle and licensing needs.
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.