How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Employee in Arkansas? (2026)

State-specific payroll taxes, workers' comp, and total employer costs in Arkansas.

Total Cost at $60K Salary

$65,452

Cost multiplier: 1.09x

SUTA Rate (Mid)

1.9%

Wage base: $10,000

Workers' Comp Rate

1.05%

Has state income tax

Arkansas Employer Tax Details

State-specific payroll obligations for employers

SUTA Rate Range 0.1% – 5.0%
SUTA New Employer Rate (typical) 1.9%
SUTA Wage Base $10,000
Workers' Compensation (avg) 1.05% of payroll
State Income Tax Yes

Example Employer Costs in Arkansas

Mandatory employer taxes only (no benefits or overhead)

Component $40,000 Salary $60,000 Salary $80,000 Salary
Social Security (6.2%) $2,480 $3,720 $4,960
Medicare (1.45%) $580 $870 $1,160
FUTA $42 $42 $42
SUTA (AR) $190 $190 $190
Workers' Comp $420 $630 $840
Total Employer Taxes $3,712 $5,452 $7,192
Total Cost (salary + taxes) $43,712 (1.09x) $65,452 (1.09x) $87,192 (1.09x)

These estimates include mandatory employer payroll taxes only. Add benefits ($7K-$17K) and overhead (~10% of salary) for full cost.

How Arkansas Compares

Arkansas's typical SUTA rate of 1.9% is above the national average of ~1.70%.

Workers' compensation at 1.05% of payroll is below the national average of ~1.20%.

Calculate Your Exact Employee Cost

Use our interactive calculator with your specific salary, state, and benefits to get an exact number.

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