Cost of Living in Malvern, AR
Population 10,938 · Arkansas · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Malvern run well below national norms — a median of $40,602 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $96,000). A poverty rate near 21% adds context to the income figures — well above the US average, and worth factoring into any comparison with cities on the coasts or in the Rockies.
Geographically, Malvern is about 35 miles southwest of Little Rock, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 57% lower than Little Rock's $221,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Malvern
The median home value in Malvern is $95,500 — 69% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $760/month, 42% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $40,602/year is 46% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.0%, above the national average of 4.8%. Arkansas's top state income tax rate is 4.4% and the combined sales tax is 9.5%. Overall, Malvern has a cost of living index of 42 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 58% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Malvern, AR?
Malvern has a cost index of 42 (100 = national average). It is 58% below the national average.
What is average rent in Malvern, AR?
The median gross rent in Malvern is $760 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Malvern?
The median home value in Malvern is $95,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Malvern?
The median household income in Malvern is $40,602 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Malvern, AR?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Malvern is 9.5%. The Arkansas state income tax top rate is 4.4%.
Is Malvern, AR affordable?
Yes, Malvern is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 42 — about 58% below the US national average of 100.
Malvern at a Glance
- Population
- 10,938
- Median Income
- $40,602
- Home Value
- $95,500
- Median Rent
- $760/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.0%
- Sales Tax
- 9.5%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Arkansas Rankings
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