Median Income
$34,896
54% lower than US avg
Home Value
$57,600
80% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
561/100K
48% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
10.9%
68% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$663
43% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
40.7%
27% higher than US avg
Unemployment
5.0%
39% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
28.9%
133% higher than US avg
How Palestine Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population665
Median Age38.7 yrs
Density195/mi²
Male / Female46% / 54%
Largest GroupWhite 85%
Veterans2.8%
Economy
C
Median Income$34,896
Per Capita$19,493
Unemployment5.0%
Poverty28.9%
County GDP$245M
Commute16 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$57,600
Rent$663
Ownership69.7%
Zillow$129,211
Housing Units300
Rent Burden32.0%
Crime
F
Violent561/100K
Property3,800/100K
Health
Obesity40.7%
Uninsured11.0%
Smoking18.7%
Depression26.0%
Heart Disease6.4%
Climate
Avg Temp62°F (17°C)
AQI43 (Good)
Rain52.1 in/yr
Sunny Days301/yr
Elevation214 ft (65 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+10.9%
High School+85.9%
Graduate+1.1%
School Score2.45
Community
2024 VoteR 47% / D 50%
Commute16 min
Broadband84.5%
EV Stations8
Libraries1
Is Palestine a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Palestine receives an overall livability score of 2.5 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include affordable housing, abundant sunshine, high health insurance coverage. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes. Palestine has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Palestine is $34,896, 54% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 5.0% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 28.9% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 16 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Palestine is $57,600, 80% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $663 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 1.7x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
The violent crime rate of 561 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,800 per 100,000, 94% above the national average.
Education
10.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 85.9% have completed high school. School test scores average 2.4/10, below typical benchmarks.
Climate & Weather
Palestine enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 62°F. Winters average 41°F in January while summers reach 81°F in July. With 301 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 52.1 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43.
Palestine has a population of 665 with a density of 195 people per square mile, spread across 3.1 square miles. The median age is 38.7 years, 1% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 54% female and 46% male. The city is predominantly White (84.8%), with 2% Hispanic, 7.8% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 99.6% of residents. 2.8% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 26.2% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 96.6% have health insurance coverage.
Population
38.7yrs
Median Age
1% below US avg
Race & Ethnicity
Palestine vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
99.6%
27% above US avg
Spanish
0.4%
97% below US avg
Social Characteristics
Palestine vs U.S. Average
The median household income in Palestine is $34,896, which is 54% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $19,493 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $846, 41% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 5.0% (above the 3.6% US average). 28.9% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 212 business establishments, including 7 restaurants. The cost of living index is 86.9, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 16 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 2.7% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income: Palestine vs U.S.
Income
| Median HH Income | $34,896 |
| 54% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $19,493 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $846 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $49,070 |
| Gini Index | 0.563 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 5.0% |
| 39% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 28.9% |
| 133% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 212 |
| County GDP | $245M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 7 |
| Healthcare | 13 |
| Retail | 19 |
| Manufacturing | 3 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $1,200 |
| 66% below US avg |
| Cost of Living | 86.90 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 2.08% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 15.9 min |
| Drive Alone | 92.1% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 2.7% |
The median home value in Palestine is $57,600, 80% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $129,211, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $663 (43% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $751 for a one-bedroom to $944 for a two-bedroom apartment. 69.7% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 300 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1983. The average annual property tax is $1,200 (lower than the $3,500 national average). 32.0% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 1.7x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $57,600 |
| 80% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $129,211 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $663 |
| 43% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 32.0% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $751 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $944 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,239 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,406 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 69.7% |
| Owner-Occupied | 69.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 30.3% |
| Housing Units | 300 |
| Median Year Built | 1983 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $1,200 |
| 66% below US avg |
| Effective Rate | 2.08% |
In Palestine, 40.7% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 11.6% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 6.4% of residents. 38.1% have high blood pressure. 18.7% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 16.4% report binge drinking. 33.5% are physically inactive, above the national average. 26.0% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 20.8% experience frequent mental distress. 11.0% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:8,619. The dentist ratio is 1:2,091. 52.3% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 4.8 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Palestine vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 40.7% |
| 27% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 11.6% |
| Heart Disease | 6.4% |
| High Blood Pressure | 38.1% |
| Asthma | 10.7% |
| COPD | 8.1% |
| Cancer | 6.9% |
| Stroke | 3.6% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 18.7% |
| 34% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 16.4% |
| Physical Inactivity | 33.5% |
| Depression | 26.0% |
| Mental Distress | 20.8% |
| Physical Distress | 15.4% |
| Short Sleep | 42.1% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 96.6% |
| Uninsured | 11.0% |
| 28% above US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:8,619 |
| Dentists | 1:2,091 |
| Mental Health | 1:2,734 |
| Checkup Rate | 76.7% |
| Dental Visits | 49.0% |
| Premature Death | 18,152/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 4.8/10 |
| Exercise Access | 52.3% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 13 |
Palestine has a violent crime rate of 561 per 100,000 residents, 48% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 3,800 per 100,000, 94% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 1 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Palestine receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Palestine vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 561.1/100K |
| 48% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 3,800.1/100K |
| 94% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 1 |
| Traffic Accidents | 123 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.2 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Palestine enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 62°F (17°C). Winters average 41°F in January while summers reach 81°F in July. The area gets 301 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 52.1 inches (wetter than the 38-inch national average). The area receives 1.3 inches of snow annually. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43. The city sits at an elevation of 214 feet.
Temperature
41°F Jan (5°C)
81°F Jul (27°C)
| Annual Average | 62.1°F |
| 15% above US avg |
| January Average | 41°F (5°C) |
| July Average | 81°F (27°C) |
| Sunny Days | 301 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 214 ft (65 m) |
| Area | 3.1 sq mi (8.1 km²) |
| Population Density | 195/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 34.9703°N, 90.9082°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| County | Lee County County |
| Nearest Airport | Searcy Regional (SRC)
47 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
52.1"
37% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
5.47"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 43.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Very Low |
| Risk Score | 40.4 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 99.4 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 17.4 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Low |
| Hurricane |
Very Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Moderate |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Very Low |
| Hail |
Relatively Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Low |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Winter Weather |
Very Low |
| Lightning |
Very Low |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Moderate |
| Drought |
Relatively Low |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Landslide |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
290 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M4.7. Most recent: M3.1 on Aug 1, 2025.
| Feb 28, 2011 |
4 km NE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M4.7 |
136 km |
| May 4, 2001 |
8 km NNW of Holland, Arkansas |
M4.3 |
130 km |
| May 1, 2005 |
5 km SSE of Manila, Arkansas |
M4.2 |
118 km |
| Feb 18, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M4.1 |
138 km |
| Feb 10, 2005 |
3 km NNW of Etowah, Arkansas |
M4.1 |
106 km |
| Apr 30, 2003 |
1 km N of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M4.0 |
141 km |
| Oct 29, 2012 |
8 km SW of Parkin, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
36 km |
| Apr 8, 2011 |
3 km NE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
136 km |
| Feb 18, 2011 |
3 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
137 km |
| Sep 17, 1997 |
2 km E of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
87 km |
| Feb 17, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
136 km |
| Nov 29, 1996 |
1 km W of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
138 km |
| Jun 4, 2014 |
3 km ESE of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
139 km |
| Feb 23, 2013 |
7 km SW of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
79 km |
| Apr 7, 2011 |
2 km NE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
137 km |
| Oct 15, 2017 |
6 km SE of Manila, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
120 km |
| Feb 28, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
137 km |
| Feb 20, 2011 |
3 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
137 km |
| Feb 25, 2011 |
4 km NNE of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
138 km |
| Mar 3, 2011 |
0 km N of Greenbrier, Arkansas |
M3.5 |
138 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
511 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 214 fatalities, 2,391 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF4 |
96 km |
8 |
| Mar 15, 1984 |
EF4 |
63 km |
5 |
| May 26, 1973 |
EF4 |
54 km |
3 |
| May 15, 1968 |
EF4 |
88 km |
35 |
| May 15, 1968 |
EF4 |
91 km |
7 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
51 km |
4 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
31 km |
29 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
86 km |
2 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
77 km |
50 |
| Mar 31, 2023 |
EF3 |
24 km |
4 |
| Mar 28, 2020 |
EF3 |
96 km |
0 |
| Apr 30, 2010 |
EF3 |
62 km |
0 |
| May 10, 2008 |
EF3 |
82 km |
0 |
| May 2, 2008 |
EF3 |
46 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 2006 |
EF3 |
31 km |
0 |
| May 4, 2003 |
EF3 |
52 km |
0 |
| Jan 21, 1999 |
EF3 |
91 km |
0 |
| Jan 21, 1999 |
EF3 |
69 km |
0 |
| Jan 21, 1999 |
EF3 |
89 km |
0 |
| Jan 21, 1999 |
EF3 |
46 km |
0 |
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 |
— |
— |
84 km |
Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.
Wildfire History
7 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: UNNAMED (1,334 ac, 2006).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
1,334 |
46 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
1,194 |
58 km |
| 2017 |
310 WEST OF COMO |
745 |
91 km |
| 2005 |
WAPANOCCA LAKE |
725 |
74 km |
| 1996 |
UNNAMED |
647 |
98 km |
| 2007 |
UNNAMED |
627 |
53 km |
| 2018 |
UNNAMED |
599 |
39 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
41°F (5°C) |
3.6 in |
Coldest |
| February |
43°F (6°C) |
4.0 in |
|
| March |
52°F (11°C) |
5.2 in |
|
| April |
61°F (16°C) |
5.2 in |
|
| May |
70°F (21°C) |
5.5 in |
Wettest |
| June |
78°F (26°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| July |
81°F (27°C) |
3.4 in |
Warmest |
| August |
79°F (26°C) |
3.2 in |
Driest |
| September |
73°F (23°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| October |
63°F (17°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| November |
51°F (11°C) |
4.9 in |
|
| December |
43°F (6°C) |
5.2 in |
|
Palestine has a seasonal temperature swing of 41°F / from 41°F in January to 81°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 50.7 inches, with May being the wettest month (5.5") and August the driest (3.2").
Average costs for common services in Palestine. 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
Frequently Asked Questions About Palestine
What is the population of Palestine?
Palestine has a population of 665 residents and is located in Arkansas. The population density is 195 people per square mile, spread across 3.1 square miles. The median age of residents is 38.7 years. The population is 54% female and 46% male.
Is Palestine expensive to live in?
Palestine 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 $34,896, 54% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $57,600 (80% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $663 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Palestine safe?
The violent crime rate in Palestine is 561 per 100,000 residents, above the national average of 380. Prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods, as crime rates can vary significantly within the city. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,800 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Palestine receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Palestine?
Palestine enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 62°F (17°C). Winter temperatures average 41°F in January, while summers reach an average of 81°F in July. The area receives 301 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 52.1 inches, with 1.3 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 43.
How is the job market in Palestine?
The unemployment rate in Palestine is 5.0%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $846. There are 212 business establishments in the area, including 7 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 16 minutes, and 2.7% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Palestine?
The median home value in Palestine is $57,600. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $129,211. For renters, the median monthly rent is $663. Fair market rent is $751 for a 1-bedroom and $944 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 69.7%. The average annual property tax is $1,200.
How are the schools in Palestine?
Schools in Palestine have an average test score of 2.4 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 10.9% of adults in Palestine hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 85.9% have completed high school. 1.1% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Palestine?
The obesity rate in Palestine is 40.7% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 18.7% of adults are smokers. 33.5% are physically inactive. 26.0% of residents report depression. 11.0% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 52.3% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:8,619.
What is transportation like in Palestine?
The average commute in Palestine is 16 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 92.1% of workers drive alone to work, and 2.7% work from home.
What are the demographics of Palestine?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Palestine is 84.8% White, 7.8% Black or African American, 2% Hispanic or Latino. 99.6% of residents speak only English at home. 2.8% of the population are military veterans. 26.2% of residents have a disability. 96.6% have health insurance coverage.
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