Median Income
$49,928
34% lower than US avg
Home Value
$101,200
64% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
1,376/100K
262% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
15.7%
53% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$789
32% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
49.7%
55% higher than US avg
Unemployment
11.2%
211% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
13.3%
7% higher than US avg
How Blytheville Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population13,026
Median Age39.1 yrs
Density628/mi²
Male / Female44% / 56%
Largest GroupWhite 36%
Veterans7.5%
Economy
C
Median Income$49,928
Per Capita$29,696
Unemployment11.2%
Poverty13.3%
County GDP$954M
Commute14 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$101,200
Rent$789
Ownership53.7%
Zillow$101,348
Housing Units7,272
Rent Burden30.9%
Crime
F
Violent1,376/100K
Property4,573/100K
Health
Obesity49.7%
Uninsured7.2%
Smoking19.2%
Depression23.5%
Heart Disease7.1%
Climate
Avg Temp61°F (16°C)
Rain43.0 in/yr
Elevation253 ft (77 m)
Education
C
Bachelor's+15.7%
High School+88.2%
Graduate+7.3%
School Score4.91
Community
2024 VoteR 68% / D 31%
Commute14 min
Broadband80.7%
EV Stations2
Libraries2
Is Blytheville a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Blytheville receives an overall livability score of 2.7 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include affordable housing. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, above-average unemployment, below-average incomes. Blytheville has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Blytheville is $49,928, 34% below the national average of $75,149. At 11.2%, unemployment is notably high. 13.3% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 14 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Blytheville is $101,200, 64% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $789 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
With 1,376 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, public safety is a notable concern / this is significantly above the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 4,573 per 100,000, 133% above the national average.
Education
15.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 88.2% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 4.9/10.
Climate & Weather
Blytheville enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 61°F. Winters average 39°F in January while summers reach 82°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 43.0 inches.
Blytheville has a population of 13,026 with a density of 628 people per square mile, spread across 20.8 square miles. The median age is 39.1 years, 1% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 55.8% female and 44.2% male. The city is predominantly Black (58.2%), with 35.8% White, 4.8% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 95.6% of residents. 7.5% of the population are veterans, above the national rate of 6.0%. 20.0% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 92.8% have health insurance coverage.
Population
13,026
Total Population
2023 Census
39.1yrs
Median Age
1% above US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Blytheville vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
95.6%
22% above US avg
Spanish
4.6%
66% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Blytheville vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Blytheville is $49,928, which is 34% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $29,696 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $937, 35% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 11.2% (above the 3.6% US average). 13.3% of residents live below the poverty line. The area has 377 business establishments, including 25 restaurants. The cost of living index is 86.9, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 14 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 1.8% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Blytheville vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $49,928 |
| 34% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $29,696 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $937 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $51,201 |
| Gini Index | 0.453 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 11.2% |
| 211% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 13.3% |
| 7% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 377 |
| County GDP | $954M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 25 |
| Healthcare | 32 |
| Retail | 62 |
| Manufacturing | 14 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $1,969 |
| 44% below US avg |
| Cost of Living | 86.90 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 1.95% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 13.5 min |
| Drive Alone | 81.4% |
| Public Transit | 0.2% |
| Work from Home | 1.8% |
The median home value in Blytheville is $101,200, 64% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $101,348. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $120,000 with homes selling in an average of 121 days. Homes sell for 95.9% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $789 (32% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $751 for a one-bedroom to $944 for a two-bedroom apartment. 53.7% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 7,272 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1974. The average annual property tax is $1,969 (lower than the $3,500 national average). 30.9% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $101,200 |
| 64% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $101,348 |
| Redfin Median Sale | $120,000 |
| Median List Price | $90,900 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median Sale Price | $120,000 |
| Median List Price | $90,900 |
| $/Sq Ft | $77 |
| Homes Sold | 7 |
| Days on Market | 121 days |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 95.9% |
| Price Drops | 42.9% |
| Inventory | 28 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $789 |
| 32% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 30.9% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $751 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $944 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,239 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,406 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 53.7% |
| Owner-Occupied | 53.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 46.3% |
| Housing Units | 7,272 |
| Median Year Built | 1974 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $1,969 |
| 44% below US avg |
| Effective Rate | 1.95% |
In Blytheville, 49.7% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 15.3% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 7.1% of residents, above the national average. 46.8% have high blood pressure. 19.2% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 12.7% report binge drinking. 37.9% are physically inactive, above the national average. 23.5% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 21.1% experience frequent mental distress. 7.2% of residents lack health insurance. The primary care physician ratio is 1:6,277. The dentist ratio is 1:4,959. 48.6% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 7.4 out of 10.
Air Quality (Open-Meteo CAMS - 2026-05-27)
PM2.5
1.9
μg/m³
Fine particulate
PM10
2.0
μg/m³
Coarse particulate
NO₂
3.0
μg/m³
Nitrogen dioxide
SO₂
0.2
μg/m³
Sulphur dioxide
CO
128.0
μg/m³
Carbon monoxide
Health Metrics: Blytheville vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 49.7% |
| 55% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 15.3% |
| Heart Disease | 7.1% |
| High Blood Pressure | 46.8% |
| Asthma | 11.8% |
| COPD | 8.7% |
| Cancer | 5.7% |
| Stroke | 4.6% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 19.2% |
| 37% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 12.7% |
| Physical Inactivity | 37.9% |
| Depression | 23.5% |
| Mental Distress | 21.1% |
| Physical Distress | 16.4% |
| Short Sleep | 49.3% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 92.8% |
| Uninsured | 7.2% |
| 16% below US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:6,277 |
| Dentists | 1:4,959 |
| Mental Health | 1:3,516 |
| Checkup Rate | 80.5% |
| Dental Visits | 45.8% |
| Premature Death | 14,551/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 7.4/10 |
| Exercise Access | 48.6% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 32 |
Blytheville has a violent crime rate of 1,376 per 100,000 residents, 262% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 4,573 per 100,000, 133% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 6 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Blytheville receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Blytheville vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 1,376.1/100K |
| 262% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 4,573.4/100K |
| 133% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 6 |
| Traffic Accidents | 142 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.3 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Blytheville enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 61°F (16°C). Winters average 39°F in January while summers reach 82°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 43.0 inches. The area receives 2.9 inches of snow annually. The city sits at an elevation of 253 feet.
Temperature
39°F Jan (4°C)
82°F Jul (28°C)
| Annual Average | 61.1°F |
| 13% above US avg |
| January Average | 39°F (4°C) |
| July Average | 82°F (28°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 253 ft (77 m) |
| Area | 20.8 sq mi (53.9 km²) |
| Population Density | 628/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 35.9341°N, 89.9051°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| County | Lauderdale County County |
| Nearest Airport | Arkansas International (BYH)
3 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
43.0"
13% above US avg
Wettest Month (Apr)
4.88"
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 71.6 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 88.0 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 40.0 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hurricane |
Very Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Moderate |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Very Low |
| Hail |
Very Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Low |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Moderate |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively Moderate |
| Lightning |
Relatively Moderate |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively High |
| Drought |
Relatively Moderate |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Moderate |
| Landslide |
Relatively Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
394 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M4.8. Most recent: M3.1 on Aug 1, 2025.
| Sep 26, 1990 |
4 km SE of Chaffee, Missouri |
M4.8 |
138 km |
| May 4, 1991 |
2 km NNW of Risco, Missouri |
M4.5 |
72 km |
| May 1, 2005 |
5 km SSE of Manila, Arkansas |
M4.2 |
24 km |
| Feb 10, 2005 |
3 km NNW of Etowah, Arkansas |
M4.1 |
37 km |
| Jun 2, 2005 |
12 km S of Ridgely, Tennessee |
M4.0 |
46 km |
| Jun 6, 2003 |
1 km NE of Bardwell, Kentucky |
M4.0 |
133 km |
| Apr 30, 2003 |
1 km N of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M4.0 |
2 km |
| Oct 29, 2012 |
8 km SW of Parkin, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
105 km |
| Feb 21, 2012 |
4 km SSE of Bertrand, Missouri |
M3.9 |
113 km |
| Oct 21, 1999 |
9 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
114 km |
| Aug 22, 2000 |
19 km WNW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
123 km |
| May 16, 2024 |
6 km S of Ridgely, Tennessee |
M3.8 |
49 km |
| Nov 29, 1996 |
1 km W of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
3 km |
| Sep 17, 1997 |
2 km E of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
59 km |
| Mar 2, 2010 |
2 km ENE of East Prairie, Missouri |
M3.7 |
107 km |
| Feb 23, 2013 |
7 km SW of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
68 km |
| Apr 24, 2019 |
12 km NNW of Dyersburg, Tennessee |
M3.7 |
48 km |
| Oct 15, 2017 |
6 km SE of Manila, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
22 km |
| Jan 16, 2018 |
4 km SW of Caruthersville, Missouri |
M3.6 |
32 km |
| Sep 22, 2011 |
6 km E of Grandin, Missouri |
M3.6 |
124 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Tornado History
569 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 190 fatalities, 1,720 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF4 |
92 km |
57 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF4 |
61 km |
8 |
| Feb 5, 2008 |
EF4 |
98 km |
0 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF4 |
91 km |
11 |
| Jan 21, 1999 |
EF4 |
70 km |
0 |
| Apr 16, 1998 |
EF4 |
26 km |
2 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
21 km |
1 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
69 km |
0 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
31 km |
0 |
| Apr 22, 1981 |
EF4 |
87 km |
1 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
64 km |
2 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
60 km |
4 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
15 km |
17 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
98 km |
0 |
| Mar 31, 2023 |
EF3 |
53 km |
1 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF3 |
62 km |
0 |
| Mar 28, 2020 |
EF3 |
72 km |
0 |
| May 2, 2008 |
EF3 |
96 km |
0 |
| Feb 5, 2008 |
EF3 |
79 km |
3 |
| Apr 2, 2006 |
EF3 |
40 km |
16 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950-2024)
Tsunami History
1 tsunami recorded within 500 km.
| Year |
Location |
Cause |
Max Wave |
Deaths |
Distance |
| 1811 |
AR: NE - NEW MADRID EARTHQUAKES |
Eruption + Earthquake |
- |
- |
58 km |
Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.
Wildfire History
1 wildfire (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: WAPANOCCA LAKE (725 ac, 2005).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2005 |
WAPANOCCA LAKE |
725 |
72 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
39°F (4°C) |
3.2 in |
Coldest |
| February |
43°F (6°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| March |
51°F (11°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| April |
61°F (16°C) |
4.9 in |
Wettest |
| May |
71°F (22°C) |
4.9 in |
|
| June |
79°F (26°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| July |
82°F (28°C) |
3.0 in |
Warmest |
| August |
80°F (26°C) |
2.7 in |
|
| September |
73°F (23°C) |
2.4 in |
Driest |
| October |
62°F (17°C) |
3.0 in |
|
| November |
51°F (10°C) |
3.8 in |
|
| December |
42°F (6°C) |
4.2 in |
|
Blytheville has a seasonal temperature swing of 42°F / from 39°F in January to 82°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 43.0 inches, with April being the wettest month (4.9") and September the driest (2.4").
Average costs for common services in Blytheville. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$217 ($130-$348) |
| Specialist Visit |
$304 ($174-$478) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$174 ($87-$304) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$1,912 ($695-$4,345) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$113 ($65-$174) |
| Dental Filling |
$217 ($130-$348) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$39 ($22-$65) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$65 ($43-$104) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$261 ($130-$435) |
| Tire Rotation |
$35 ($17-$65) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$521 ($348-$869) |
| Battery Replacement |
$174 ($87-$304) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$87 ($52-$130) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$78 ($43-$122) |
| HVAC Repair |
$348 ($130-$695) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,083 ($3,476-$10,428) |
| Roof Repair |
$869 ($348-$1,738) |
| Roof Replacement |
$7,821 ($4,780-$13,035) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,304 ($435-$3,042) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$13,035 ($4,345-$26,070) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,345 ($1,738-$8,690) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,304 ($695-$2,607) |
| Will Preparation |
$435 ($174-$869) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,173 ($869-$4,345) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$22 ($13-$39) |
| Women's Haircut |
$48 ($26-$87) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$130 ($65-$217) |
| Manicure |
$22 ($13-$39) |
| Pedicure |
$35 ($22-$56) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$70 ($43-$113) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.56 ($2.61-$4.78) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.04 ($2.17-$4.35) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.30 ($2.17-$4.78) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$3.91 ($2.61-$5.65) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$4.78 ($3.48-$6.52) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.87 ($0.52-$1.56) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$122 ($70-$217) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$61 ($26-$130) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$61 ($35-$104) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$61 ($35-$87) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$56 ($26-$87) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$74 ($43-$130) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$174 ($65-$435) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,738 ($1,043-$3,042) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$61 ($26-$113) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$13 ($6.95-$22) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$87 ($26-$217) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$26 ($13-$65) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,043 ($521-$2,173) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$869 ($435-$1,738) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$348 ($174-$608) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$43 ($22-$87) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$869 ($348-$2,173) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$10,863 ($4,345-$26,070) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$52 ($26-$87) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$87 ($43-$174) |
| Dog Grooming |
$52 ($26-$87) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$35 ($17-$65) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$261 ($130-$435) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$174 ($87-$348) |
View all 9 services
Childcare
| Center-Based (monthly) |
| Infant | $567 |
| Toddler | $476 |
| Preschool | $476 |
| Family Childcare (monthly) |
| Infant | $393 |
| Toddler | $422 |
| Preschool | $422 |
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About Blytheville
What is the population of Blytheville?
Blytheville has a population of 13,026 residents and is located in Arkansas. The population density is 628 people per square mile, spread across 20.8 square miles. The median age of residents is 39.1 years. The population is 55.8% female and 44.2% male.
Is Blytheville expensive to live in?
Blytheville is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 86.9 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $49,928, 34% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $101,200 (64% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $789 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Blytheville safe?
Public safety is a concern in Blytheville, with a violent crime rate of 1,376 per 100,000 / significantly above the national average of 380. However, crime tends to concentrate in certain areas, and many neighborhoods remain relatively safe. Property crime occurs at a rate of 4,573 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Blytheville receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Blytheville?
Blytheville enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 61°F (16°C). Winter temperatures average 39°F in January, while summers reach an average of 82°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 43.0 inches, with 2.9 inches of snow.
How is the job market in Blytheville?
The job market in Blytheville faces challenges, with unemployment at 11.2% / significantly above the national rate of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $937. There are 377 business establishments in the area, including 25 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 14 minutes, and 1.8% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Blytheville?
The median home value in Blytheville is $101,200. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $101,348. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $120,000, with homes typically selling within 121 days. For renters, the median monthly rent is $789. Fair market rent is $751 for a 1-bedroom and $944 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 53.7%. The average annual property tax is $1,969.
How are the schools in Blytheville?
Schools in Blytheville have an average test score of 4.9 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 15.7% of adults in Blytheville hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 88.2% have completed high school. 7.3% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Blytheville?
The obesity rate in Blytheville is 49.7% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 19.2% of adults are smokers. 37.9% are physically inactive. 23.5% of residents report depression. 7.2% lack health insurance (below the national rate). 48.6% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:6,277.
What is transportation like in Blytheville?
The average commute in Blytheville is 14 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 81.4% of workers drive alone to work, and 1.8% work from home.
What are the demographics of Blytheville?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Blytheville is 35.8% White, 58.2% Black or African American, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino. 95.6% of residents speak only English at home, while 4.6% speak Spanish. 7.5% of the population are military veterans. 20.0% of residents have a disability. 92.8% have health insurance coverage.