Population measures provide insight on how communities are changing in size and composition. The racial and ethnic makeup of a community can offer insight into its levels of diversity, which also may reflect particular challenges and opportunities.

Though still by far majority white, Arkansas is becoming slightly more diverse (72% White in 2018-22, compared to 75% in 2008-12). In 2018-22, 15% of Arkansans identified as Black or African American, 8% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, 3% some other race, 0.5% Native American, and 0.4% (about 11,100 individuals) Pacific Islander.

Though they remained a tiny fraction of the population, Pacific Islanders had the largest growth from 2008-12 to 2018-22 (102%), which far outstripped their population growth in the U.S. overall (21.5%). The next largest increase was among Asian residents, at 33%, followed by Hispanic residents (31%). Increases were far smaller for Black residents (0.8%) and Native American and White residents decreased by 3% and 4% respectively.

Within the state, Phillips County had the largest non-white population with only 35% of residents identified as white, while 62% were Black. In contrast, Fulton and Clay Counties were the least diverse counties, with 98% or more of residents identifying as white.

In terms of changes in demographics, from 2008-12 to 2018-22, Benton County saw the largest increase in its white population (7.5%), while St. Francis County saw the largest decrease in its white population (down 27%).

The composition of the U.S. population is becoming more racially and ethnically diverse as people of color grow in representation and will be a majority within the next two decades. Latino, Asian and multiracial groups are experiencing the largest growth with Latino's rapid increase caused largely by immigration. Latino immigrants who enter the U.S. tend to be younger and of child-bearing age. Latinas in the U.S. have higher fertility rates than Black and white women. Black, Latino and multiracial populations are also experiencing higher rates of births relative to deaths, while whites are experiencing the opposite.

Rate is percentage change from 2008-12. The Census Bureau asks people to identify their race (white, African American, etc.) separate from their ethnicity (Hispanic or non-Hispanic). The totals for these categories therefore cannot be added together, as people show up in both a racial and ethnic group. Data for this indicator is released annually in December.