Median Income
$41,534
45% lower than US avg
Home Value
$82,500
71% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
511/100K
34% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
12.6%
63% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$605
48% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
41.1%
28% higher than US avg
Unemployment
3.1%
14% lower than US avg
Poverty Rate
13.6%
10% higher than US avg
How Rector Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population1,631
Median Age40.3 yrs
Density1,199/mi²
Male / Female50% / 51%
Largest GroupWhite 94%
Veterans7.0%
Economy
B
Median Income$41,534
Per Capita$24,261
Unemployment3.1%
Poverty13.6%
County GDP$476M
Commute24 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$82,500
Rent$605
Ownership57.0%
Zillow$128,433
Housing Units961
Rent Burden26.9%
Crime
F
Violent511/100K
Property3,149/100K
Health
Obesity41.1%
Uninsured13.1%
Smoking20.8%
Depression29.7%
Heart Disease7.2%
Climate
Avg Temp60°F (15°C)
AQI43 (Good)
Sunny Days318/yr
Elevation292 ft (89 m)
Education
C
Bachelor's+12.6%
High School+75.6%
Graduate+6.3%
School Score4.93
Community
2024 VoteR 80% / D 18%
Commute24 min
Broadband84.5%
EV Stations6
Libraries3
Is Rector a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Rector receives an overall livability score of 2.8 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include low unemployment, affordable housing, abundant sunshine, high health insurance coverage. Areas to be aware of include elevated crime rates, a high uninsured rate, below-average incomes. Rector has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Rector is $41,534, 45% below the national average of $75,149. Unemployment stands at 3.1%, indicating a healthy job market. 13.6% of residents live in poverty, near the national average of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 24 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Rector is $82,500, 71% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $605 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
The violent crime rate of 511 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,149 per 100,000, 61% above the national average.
Education
12.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 75.6% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 4.9/10.
Climate & Weather
Rector enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F. Winters average 36°F in January while summers reach 80°F in July. With 318 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43.
Rector has a population of 1,631 with a density of 1,199 people per square mile, spread across 1.3 square miles. The median age is 40.3 years, 4% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 50.5% female and 49.5% male. The city is predominantly White (93.5%), with 1.6% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 100% of residents. 7.0% of the population are veterans. 29.4% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 95.1% have health insurance coverage.
Population
40.3yrs
Median Age
4% above US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
100.0%
27% above US avg
Spanish
0.0%
100% below US avg
The median household income in Rector is $41,534, which is 45% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $24,261 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $810, 43% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 3.1% (below the 3.6% US average). 13.6% of residents live below the poverty line. The area has 352 business establishments, including 22 restaurants. The cost of living index is 86.9, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 24 minutes. 9.3% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $41,534 |
| 45% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $24,261 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $810 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $51,642 |
| Gini Index | 0.452 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 3.1% |
| 14% below US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 13.6% |
| 10% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 352 |
| County GDP | $476M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 22 |
| Healthcare | 35 |
| Retail | 46 |
| Manufacturing | 11 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $1,788 |
| 49% below US avg |
| Cost of Living | 86.90 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 2.17% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 23.6 min |
| Drive Alone | 78.2% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 9.3% |
The median home value in Rector is $82,500, 71% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $128,433, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $605 (48% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $751 for a one-bedroom to $944 for a two-bedroom apartment. 57.0% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 961 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1965. The average annual property tax is $1,788 (lower than the $3,500 national average). 26.9% 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 | $82,500 |
| 71% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $128,433 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $605 |
| 48% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 26.9% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $700 |
| 1 Bedroom | $751 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $944 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,239 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,406 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 57.0% |
| Owner-Occupied | 57.0% |
| Renter-Occupied | 43.0% |
| Housing Units | 961 |
| Median Year Built | 1965 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $1,788 |
| 49% below US avg |
| Effective Rate | 2.17% |
In Rector, 41.1% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 11.8% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 7.2% of residents, above the national average. 37.5% have high blood pressure. 20.8% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 15.7% report binge drinking. 35.7% are physically inactive, above the national average. 29.7% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 22.4% experience frequent mental distress. 13.1% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:14,350. The dentist ratio is 1:2,377. 60.9% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 6.2 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Rector vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 41.1% |
| 28% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 11.8% |
| Heart Disease | 7.2% |
| High Blood Pressure | 37.5% |
| Asthma | 11.2% |
| COPD | 9.8% |
| Cancer | 7.2% |
| Stroke | 3.8% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 20.8% |
| 49% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 15.7% |
| Physical Inactivity | 35.7% |
| Depression | 29.7% |
| Mental Distress | 22.4% |
| Physical Distress | 17.3% |
| Short Sleep | 39.9% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 95.1% |
| Uninsured | 13.1% |
| 52% above US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:14,350 |
| Dentists | 1:2,377 |
| Mental Health | 1:1,014 |
| Checkup Rate | 74.9% |
| Dental Visits | 45.3% |
| Premature Death | 10,838/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 6.2/10 |
| Exercise Access | 60.9% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 35 |
Rector has a violent crime rate of 511 per 100,000 residents, 34% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 3,149 per 100,000, 61% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 3 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Rector receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Rector vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 510.6/100K |
| 34% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 3,148.9/100K |
| 61% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 3 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Rector enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (15°C). Winters average 36°F in January while summers reach 80°F in July. The area gets 318 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 43. The city sits at an elevation of 292 feet.
Temperature
36°F Jan (2°C)
80°F Jul (27°C)
| Annual Average | 59.5°F |
| 10% above US avg |
| January Average | 36°F (2°C) |
| July Average | 80°F (27°C) |
| Sunny Days | 318 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 292 ft (89 m) |
| Area | 1.3 sq mi (3.5 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,199/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 36.2642°N, 90.2935°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| County | Clay County County |
| Nearest Airport | Arkansas International (BYH)
28 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Wettest Month (May)
5.20"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 43.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 71.6 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 82.4 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 11.8 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hurricane |
Very Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Moderate |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Relatively 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 High |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Moderate |
| Landslide |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
409 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 |
116 km |
| May 4, 1991 |
2 km NNW of Risco, Missouri |
M4.5 |
54 km |
| May 1, 2005 |
5 km SSE of Manila, Arkansas |
M4.2 |
50 km |
| Feb 10, 2005 |
3 km NNW of Etowah, Arkansas |
M4.1 |
56 km |
| Apr 30, 2003 |
1 km N of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M4.0 |
49 km |
| Jun 2, 2005 |
12 km S of Ridgely, Tennessee |
M4.0 |
75 km |
| Jun 6, 2003 |
1 km NE of Bardwell, Kentucky |
M4.0 |
135 km |
| Oct 29, 2012 |
8 km SW of Parkin, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
122 km |
| Jul 7, 1991 |
11 km ENE of Brandsville, Missouri |
M3.9 |
123 km |
| Feb 21, 2012 |
4 km SSE of Bertrand, Missouri |
M3.9 |
103 km |
| Aug 22, 2000 |
19 km WNW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
76 km |
| Oct 21, 1999 |
9 km NW of Maynard, Arkansas |
M3.9 |
65 km |
| Sep 17, 1997 |
2 km E of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
68 km |
| May 16, 2024 |
6 km S of Ridgely, Tennessee |
M3.8 |
74 km |
| Nov 29, 1996 |
1 km W of Blytheville, Arkansas |
M3.8 |
49 km |
| Feb 23, 2013 |
7 km SW of Trumann, Arkansas |
M3.7 |
75 km |
| Mar 2, 2010 |
2 km ENE of East Prairie, Missouri |
M3.7 |
102 km |
| Aug 16, 2003 |
5 km W of Thomasville, Missouri |
M3.7 |
130 km |
| Apr 24, 2019 |
12 km NNW of Dyersburg, Tennessee |
M3.7 |
78 km |
| Oct 15, 2017 |
6 km SE of Manila, Arkansas |
M3.6 |
50 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Tornado History
551 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 134 fatalities, 1,375 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF4 |
58 km |
8 |
| Jan 21, 1999 |
EF4 |
23 km |
0 |
| Apr 16, 1998 |
EF4 |
45 km |
2 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
66 km |
1 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF4 |
56 km |
0 |
| Apr 22, 1981 |
EF4 |
39 km |
1 |
| May 15, 1968 |
EF4 |
99 km |
35 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
49 km |
17 |
| Mar 21, 1952 |
EF4 |
94 km |
4 |
| May 26, 2024 |
EF3 |
79 km |
0 |
| Mar 31, 2023 |
EF3 |
98 km |
1 |
| Dec 10, 2021 |
EF3 |
94 km |
0 |
| Mar 28, 2020 |
EF3 |
62 km |
0 |
| Nov 17, 2013 |
EF3 |
98 km |
0 |
| Feb 29, 2012 |
EF3 |
71 km |
1 |
| May 25, 2011 |
EF3 |
79 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 2006 |
EF3 |
71 km |
16 |
| Apr 2, 2006 |
EF3 |
61 km |
2 |
| Apr 16, 1998 |
EF3 |
91 km |
2 |
| Mar 1, 1997 |
EF3 |
78 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 |
— |
— |
75 km |
Source: NOAA/NCEI Historical Tsunami Database. Sorted by wave height.
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: UNNAMED (9,641 ac, 2011).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2011 |
UNNAMED |
9,641 |
92 km |
| 2022 |
CEDAR BLUFF |
9,617 |
99 km |
| 2010 |
WYLIE KING 1 |
6,077 |
74 km |
| 2024 |
BRIDGES RX |
4,781 |
88 km |
| 2021 |
MILLER KING |
4,130 |
78 km |
| 2013 |
UNNAMED |
3,313 |
81 km |
| 2021 |
VICTORY 1-7 |
3,237 |
72 km |
| 2024 |
WOLF MOUNTAIN RX |
3,140 |
84 km |
| 2005 |
WOLF MTN |
2,801 |
84 km |
| 2022 |
HODO 4 |
1,859 |
92 km |
| 2010 |
CHILTON SOUTH RX |
1,649 |
96 km |
| 2024 |
ESSMAN SPRING RX |
1,495 |
76 km |
| 2012 |
12 LONGBAY |
1,432 |
96 km |
| 2006 |
06 CHILTON SOUTH |
1,400 |
96 km |
| 2009 |
LONG BAY RX |
1,261 |
98 km |
| 2005 |
BIG SPRING RIDGE RX |
1,237 |
100 km |
| 2004 |
UNNAMED |
1,232 |
76 km |
| 2020 |
20 LONGBAY |
1,128 |
96 km |
| 2003 |
CHILTON CR |
914 |
97 km |
| 2013 |
UNNAMED |
839 |
80 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
36°F (2°C) |
3.4 in |
Coldest |
| February |
40°F (4°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| March |
49°F (9°C) |
5.1 in |
|
| April |
59°F (15°C) |
4.8 in |
|
| May |
68°F (20°C) |
5.2 in |
Wettest |
| June |
76°F (25°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| July |
80°F (27°C) |
3.4 in |
Warmest |
| August |
78°F (26°C) |
3.1 in |
Driest |
| September |
72°F (22°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| October |
60°F (16°C) |
3.2 in |
|
| November |
49°F (9°C) |
4.7 in |
|
| December |
39°F (4°C) |
4.6 in |
|
Rector has a seasonal temperature swing of 44°F / from 36°F in January to 80°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 48.8 inches, with May being the wettest month (5.2") and August the driest (3.1").
Average costs for common services in Rector. 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 Rector
What is the population of Rector?
Rector has a population of 1,631 residents and is located in Arkansas. The population density is 1,199 people per square mile, spread across 1.3 square miles. The median age of residents is 40.3 years. The population is 50.5% female and 49.5% male.
Is Rector expensive to live in?
Rector 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 $41,534, 45% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $82,500 (71% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $605 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 Rector safe?
The violent crime rate in Rector is 511 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 3,149 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Rector receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Rector?
Rector enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 60°F (15°C). Winter temperatures average 36°F in January, while summers reach an average of 80°F in July. The area receives 318 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 43.
How is the job market in Rector?
Rector has a healthy job market with an unemployment rate of 3.1%, near the national average of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $810. There are 352 business establishments in the area, including 22 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 24 minutes, and 9.3% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Rector?
The median home value in Rector is $82,500. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $128,433. For renters, the median monthly rent is $605. Fair market rent is $751 for a 1-bedroom and $944 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 57.0%. The average annual property tax is $1,788.
How are the schools in Rector?
Schools in Rector have an average test score of 4.9 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 12.6% of adults in Rector hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 75.6% have completed high school. 6.3% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Rector?
The obesity rate in Rector is 41.1% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 20.8% of adults are smokers. 35.7% are physically inactive. 29.7% of residents report depression. 13.1% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 60.9% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:14,350.
What is transportation like in Rector?
The average commute in Rector is 24 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 78.2% of workers drive alone to work, and 9.3% work from home.
What are the demographics of Rector?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Rector is 93.5% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino. 100% of residents speak only English at home. 7.0% of the population are military veterans. 29.4% of residents have a disability. 95.1% have health insurance coverage.
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