Many health disparities are linked to an individual’s socioeconomic status which can be determined by a family's income level, education level, and occupational status.  Research has clearly identified a significant relationship between poverty, socioeconomic status, and health outcomes—including increased risk for disease and premature death.  With a poverty rate of 17 percent, Arkansas has the fifth highest rate in the U.S.

A variety of factors can contribute to inequitable access to resources and opportunities, which may result in poverty. Marital status, education, social class, social status, income level, and geographic location (e.g., urban vs. rural) can influence a household's risk of living in poverty. Racial and ethnic minorities are more likely than non-minority groups to experience poverty at some point in their lives. In addition, children from families that receive welfare assistance are three times more likely to use welfare benefits when they become adults than children from families who do not receive welfare.

Residents of impoverished neighborhoods or communities are at increased risk for mental illness, chronic disease, higher mortality, and lower life expectancy. Some population groups living in poverty may have more adverse health outcomes than others. For example, the risk for chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity is higher among those with the lowest income and education levels. In addition, older adults who are poor experience higher rates of disability and mortality.