Clinton, Arkansas Population, Hospitals, Airports, and Schools

Population: 2,283. Estimated population in July 2024: 2,475 (+8.4% change)
Males: 1,083 (47.4%), Females: 1,200 (52.6%)

Van Buren County

Zip code: 72031

Demographics

Median resident age: 41.8 years
Median household income: $22,206
Median house value: $57,700

Population by Race

Races in Clinton:

  • White Non-Hispanic (94.9%)
  • Hispanic (2.7%)
  • Two or more races (2.1%)
  • American Indian (1.8%)
  • Other race (1.3%)

Ancestries: United States (29.2%), Irish (8.5%), German (7.5%), English (6.7%), Scottish (2.4%), Italian (1.3%).

Elevation: 564 feet

Land area: 11.4 square miles

Map of Clinton, AR

Population by Education

For population 25 years and over in Clinton

  • High school or higher: 69.0%
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher: 10.4%
  • Graduate or professional degree: 3.0%
  • Unemployed: 5.3%
  • Mean travel time to work: 21.2 minutes

For population 15 years and over in Clinton city

  • Never married: 18.5%
  • Now married: 59.3%
  • Separated: 1.5%
  • Widowed: 12.1%
  • Divorced: 8.7%

1.6% Foreign born

Population change in the 1990s: +81 (+3.7%).

Hospitals

Hospital/medical center in Clinton:

  • OZARK HEALTH, INC (HIGHWAY 65 SOUTH)

Other hospitals/medical centers near Clinton:

Airports

Airports certified for carrier operations nearest to Clinton:

  • LITTLE ROCK AFB (about 53 miles; JACKSONVILLE, AR; Abbreviation: LRF)
  • ADAMS FIELD (about 63 miles; LITTLE ROCK, AR; Abbreviation: LIT)
  • MEMORIAL FIELD (about 89 miles; HOT SPRINGS, AR; Abbreviation: HOT)

Other public-use airports nearest to Clinton:

  • CLINTON MUNI (about 1 miles; CLINTON, AR; Abbreviation: 4M4)
  • HOLLEY MOUNTAIN AIRPARK (about 6 miles; CLINTON, AR; Abbreviation: 2A2)
  • SEARCY COUNTY (about 25 miles; MARSHALL, AR; Abbreviation: 4A5)

Colleges and Universities

Colleges/universities with over 2000 students nearest to Clinton:

  • UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS (about 34 miles; CONWAY, AR; Full-time enrollment: 7,693)
  • ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY-BEEBE BRANCH (about 51 miles; BEEBE, AR; Full-time enrollment: 3,840)
  • ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY (about 52 miles; RUSSELLVILLE, AR; Full-time enrollment: 4,450)
  • HARDING UNIVERSITY (about 56 miles; SEARCY, AR; Full-time enrollment: 3,959)
  • UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK (about 60 miles; LITTLE ROCK, AR; Full-time enrollment: 8,024)
  • UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT PINE BLUFF (about 98 miles; PINE BLUFF, AR; Full-time enrollment: 2,801)
  • HENDERSON STATE UNIVERSITY (about 117 miles; ARKADELPHIA, AR; Full-time enrollment: 3,109)

Schools

Public high schools in Clinton:

  • CLINTON HIGH SCHOOL (Students: 263; Location: 849 EDD ST.; Grades: 10 – 12)
  • ALREAD HIGH SCHOOL (Students: 42; Location: 20308 HWY. 16 W.; Grades: 07 – 12)

Public primary/middle schools in Clinton:

  • COWSERT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (Students: 328; Location: 1160 WALKER ST.; Grades: KG – 03)
  • CLINTON INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL (Students: 296; Location: 1243 YELLOWJACKET LN.; Grades: 04 – 06)
  • CLINTON JR. HIGH SCHOOL (Students: 261; Location: 848 WALKER ST.; Grades: 07 – 09)
  • ALREAD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (Students: 47; Location: 20308 HWY. 16 W.; Grades: KG – 06)

Clinton, Arkansas: Overview

Clinton, Arkansas, is a small city located in Van Buren County. Known for its rich history, scenic surroundings, and strong sense of community, it offers a glimpse into rural American life with access to beautiful natural attractions. Though small in population, the city is a hub for outdoor activities, local culture, and historical significance in the region.

Geography and Location

Clinton is situated in north-central Arkansas, nestled in the Ozark Mountain range, providing picturesque landscapes and rolling hills. The city is located along the Little Red River, which is a key feature of the area and offers opportunities for fishing and other water activities.

Climate

Clinton experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are mild to cool. The region enjoys distinct seasonal changes, with spring and fall being particularly pleasant due to moderate temperatures and natural beauty.

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Clinton had a population of approximately 2,600 residents. Despite its small size, the city acts as the economic and social center for Van Buren County and the surrounding rural areas. The community is known for its welcoming, small-town atmosphere, where neighbors know one another, and local events are well-attended.

Population Trends

Over the years, Clinton has experienced slow population growth, reflective of its status as a rural community. Many residents are involved in agriculture, small businesses, or are retirees who appreciate the quiet, peaceful environment of the Ozarks.

Economy

The economy of Clinton is largely based on agriculture, retail, and small businesses, with a growing emphasis on tourism. The city’s rural setting and natural beauty make it a destination for visitors interested in outdoor recreation, especially fishing, hiking, and camping.

Key Economic Sectors

  1. Agriculture: Clinton’s surrounding areas are largely agricultural, with livestock, poultry farming, and some crops being the main products. This sector remains a crucial part of the city’s economic framework.
  2. Tourism: The city has seen an increase in tourism due to its proximity to outdoor attractions like Greers Ferry Lake, the Little Red River, and the Ozark National Forest. The natural beauty of the area attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers.
  3. Retail and Local Services: As a small city, Clinton’s local economy is sustained by small businesses such as restaurants, general stores, and service providers that cater to both residents and tourists.

History

Early History and Establishment

Clinton was officially established in 1842 and named after New York Governor DeWitt Clinton. Early settlers were primarily farmers and traders who were drawn to the area by the fertile land and access to water from the nearby river. The town developed steadily as a trading post for agricultural products and livestock.

Historical Significance

Clinton and the surrounding area have historical ties to the Civil War. While Arkansas was part of the Confederacy, the region was a strategic location due to its proximity to the Ozark Mountains, which provided natural cover for military activities. Over the years, Clinton has grown into a quaint town known for preserving its local history and traditions.

Education

Clinton is served by the Clinton School District, which operates elementary, middle, and high schools. The district prides itself on offering quality education in a small-town setting, with relatively low student-to-teacher ratios that allow for personalized attention and community involvement in school activities.

In addition to public education, the city also has access to community colleges and vocational schools in nearby towns, providing opportunities for higher education and job training.

Local Attractions and Recreation

Greers Ferry Lake

One of the largest attractions near Clinton is Greers Ferry Lake, a large reservoir located just southeast of the city. The lake is known for its clear waters and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. Surrounding parks and marinas offer amenities for tourists and locals alike.

Little Red River

The Little Red River, which flows near Clinton, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, particularly for those seeking trout. The river is stocked regularly with fish, and its cold waters are perfect for year-round angling.

Ozark National Forest

Clinton is close to the Ozark National Forest, which offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The forest is also home to some scenic drives that provide breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains.

Historical Sites

The Clinton area is home to several historical landmarks, including old homesteads and buildings that reflect the town’s 19th-century roots. These sites give visitors a sense of the early pioneer life that defined the region.

Events and Culture

Van Buren County Fair

One of the key annual events in Clinton is the Van Buren County Fair. This event showcases the agricultural heritage of the region, with livestock shows, competitions, and exhibitions of local produce and crafts. It’s a major event for the community and attracts visitors from surrounding areas.

Festivals

Clinton also hosts several smaller festivals throughout the year, celebrating local arts, crafts, and music. These events are typically family-friendly and provide entertainment for all ages while fostering a strong sense of community pride.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Clinton is accessible via U.S. Route 65, which connects the city to larger towns and cities in the region, including Little Rock, the state capital. The town is primarily car-dependent, with limited public transportation options available. However, the small size of the town makes it easy to navigate by car or bike.