CHICOT COUNTY

Chicot County, Arkansas—located in the far southeastern corner of the Arkansas Delta along the Mississippi River—has a history deeply connected to agriculture, river commerce, and the cultural development of the Delta region. Established in 1823, Chicot County is one of Arkansas’s oldest counties and was named after French explorer Marie Denis Chicot. The county’s geography has long influenced its growth, with the Mississippi River and surrounding waterways shaping trade, transportation, farming, and community life for generations. Its rich Delta soil and riverfront location continue to define both the landscape and economy of the area today.

The county includes communities such as Lake Village (county seat), Dermott, Eudora, and Parkdale, where agriculture remains central to the local economy and identity. Cotton, soybeans, rice, and other row crops continue to support farming operations across the county, while natural resources and tourism tied to Lake Chicot contribute to recreation and economic activity. Lake Chicot, recognized as the largest natural lake in Arkansas and one of the largest oxbow lakes in North America, serves as a major landmark for the county and supports outdoor recreation, fishing, and tourism throughout the region.

Chicot County has a population of approximately 10,000 residents, reflecting decades of population decline experienced across many rural Delta communities. Economic challenges, changing agricultural practices, and limited industrial diversification have contributed to workforce and income disparities throughout the county. Median household income remains significantly below state and national averages, while poverty rates continue to affect many families and children across the area. These economic realities can create barriers to long-term stability, educational opportunity, and overall community growth.

Like many counties within the Arkansas Delta, Chicot County continues to face challenges related to healthcare access, behavioral health availability, transportation barriers, and broadband connectivity. Rural residents may travel significant distances for specialized healthcare services, while shortages in behavioral health providers and limited transportation options can further impact access to care. Broadband infrastructure remains inconsistent in some communities, affecting education, telehealth, workforce development, and economic opportunity. Housing concerns, aging infrastructure, and persistent health disparities also continue to impact quality of life for many residents throughout the county.