[RogMar]

The OP asked about "rural" crime, and if they really mean "rural", I am over-qualified to reply.

It's non-existant.

We take care of our own, and the misbehavers know it.

When we check fence lines, cattle, whatever, there's always a rifle slung over our shoulder, primarily because if we should encounter that once a year rabid critter, we can correct that.

However, the misbehavers know this and don't tread on our territory.

Now if by "rural" you mean Harrison or something, 'nuther story.

[northbound74]

My advice :Stay away from the drug culture. They aren't drive-by gang types, but can certainly be more than a nuisance. For the most part, they live in their own world unless provoked.
Also, don't be the guy who builds a mcmansion among house trailers, or drives a BMW in an area full of pickups. I wouldn't give them any reason to be envious or annoyed with you, or in any way look at you as a target for theft.
Otherwise, it can be a dirt-cheap place to live in a ruralish setting.
Arkansas, especially in the rural parts, has always had something of a rough around the edges sub-culture. With meth, it's just gotten to be more of a hassle to deal with.