One of the most buildable counties in Central Arkansas. USDA Rural eligible, no zoning restrictions, and affordable land.
📊75/100AcreScore
💰$3KLand $/acre
🏠$72KHome Value
👥8,062Population
📈+-7%Growth (10yr)
🌊22%Flood RiskModerate
🌡️Warm HumidClimateZone 3A
🏗️ Can You Build Here?
Arkansas has no state building code — regulations are county-level. Prairie County has no formal zoning ordinance, meaning most rural land can be used for residential construction including barndominiums without special permits beyond standard building codes.
Zone
Min Lot
Barndo OK?
Unzoned
None
✅ Yes
Prairie County has no formal zoning ordinance. Standard building permits still required. Contact the county building department for specifics.
📋 What Permits Do You Need?
Tennessee allows owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences. Licensed subs needed for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
Required Permits
• Building permit (residential)
• Septic permit (if no public sewer)
• Electrical permit
• Plumbing permit
Permit Office
Prairie County Building Department
Des Arc, AR
Contact county clerk for current hours and requirements
🌊 What's the Flood & Soil Risk?
Elevated flood risk at 22%. Prairie County has significant FEMA flood zone coverage — careful site selection and flood insurance may be required. Check FEMA maps for your specific parcel.
22%
In Flood Zone
Good
Soil Drainage
Good
Septic Viability
Source: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer, USDA Web Soil Survey
💰 What Does It Cost?
Extremely affordable. Median land prices around $2,800 per acre make Prairie County one of the most budget-friendly options in Arkansas.
$3K
Median $/acre
$72K
Median Home Value
$120–200
Build Cost $/sqft
0.54%
Property Tax Rate
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024, Prairie County Assessor
🏔️ Why People Love Living Here
Prairie County sits in the heart of Central Arkansas. Little Rock is 60 min away. No state income tax means your dollar stretches further here than in most states.
🏗️
Affordable Land
Median land at $2,800/acre means you can buy more, build bigger, and still stay under budget.
🔨
Build Freedom
No formal zoning means you can build your barndominium, shop, or homestead without jumping through bureaucratic hoops.
At a Glance
Population8,062
10-Year Growth-7%
County SeatDes Arc
State Income TaxNone
ClimateWarm Humid (Zone 3A)
How Close Is Everything?
Little Rock60 min
LIT65 min
Austinvaries
💧 Utilities & Infrastructure
Most rural Prairie County land uses well water and septic systems. Municipal utilities are available near Des Arc. Check with local utility providers for your specific parcel.
Electric ProviderLocal Co-op / TXU
WaterWell or Municipal
SewerSeptic (most rural)
InternetVaries by location
Cell CoverageVariable
Natural GasPropane common in rural areas
🏦 Financing & Incentives
Prairie County qualifies for USDA Rural Development loans — zero-down-payment financing for eligible buyers in most areas.
New listings, zoning changes, and builder availability — delivered to your inbox.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a barndominium in Prairie County?
Yes. Prairie County has no formal zoning ordinance. You'll still need standard building permits, but barndominiums are generally permitted on rural land. Check with the county building department for specific requirements.
How much does land cost in Prairie County?
Median price is approximately $2,800 per acre, though prices vary by location, road access, and improvements. USDA Rural Development loans may be available for eligible buyers.
Is Prairie County eligible for USDA Rural Development loans?
Yes — most of Prairie County qualifies for USDA Rural Development programs, including zero-down-payment home loans for eligible buyers.
What is the property tax rate in Prairie County?
The effective property tax rate is approximately 0.54%. Check with the county assessor for the most current rates and any available homestead exemptions.
Do I need a licensed contractor to build in Prairie County?
Most states allow owner-builders to act as their own general contractor for personal residences, though requirements vary by state and county. In Arkansas, check local building codes for specific licensing requirements. You'll typically need licensed professionals for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work.