✏️ Editor’s Note: Realtor Associations, agents, and MLS’ have started implementing changes related to the NAR’s $418 million settlement. While home-sellers will likely save thousands in commission, compliance and litigation risks have significantly increased for sellers throughout the nation. Learn how NAR’s settlement affects home buyers.
Americans love Arkansas! And why wouldn’t you? From a top-rated college town to the cheapest transportation, the Bear State has got it all.
The median home value for Arkansas is $240,500. For a rich cultural experience, Little Rock, and West Memphis are some of the best places to live.
People are attracted to move here because of the best healthcare system, accessible housing, and high-quality education. Also, the state’s cost of living is 8% lower than the national average. Let’s explore the best places to live in Arkansas.
3 Reasons to Live in Arkansas 🐗
- Quality Education: The state has renowned universities such as University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University.
- Affordable Healthcare: The cost of healthcare services such as body check-ups and dentistry in Arkansas is 11% less than the national average.
- Transportation Costs: In Arkansas, transportation costs are 7% lower than the national average.
7 Best Places to Live in Arkansas
| # | City | Population | Median Home Price | Monthly Expenses | Unemployment Rate | Community Well-Being Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Fayetteville | 95,022 | $338,200 | $7,499 | 2.4% | 55/100 |
| 2. | Bentonville | 54,513 | $508,000 | $7,699 | 2.2% | 57/100 |
| 3. | Cave Springs | 5,521 | $535,000 | $7,699 | 3.4% | 57/100 |
| 4. | Bella Vista | 30,297 | $322,500 | $7,699 | 4.8% | 57/100 |
| 5. | Centerton | 18,655 | $362,366 | $7,699 | 3.4% | 57/100 |
| 6. | Hillcrest | 5,911 | $375,000 | $7,337 | 3.4% | 64/100 |
| 7. | Rogers | 69,961 | $390,000 | $7,337 | 2.4% | 55/100 |
1. Fayetteville: Best Place for Young Adults
| Home Value | ⬆️ 4.2% |
| Median Income | $99,074 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,499 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.4% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 55/100 |
Fayetteville is a perfect option for those moving on a budget. The median home price in the city is $338,200, which is quite affordable. Moreover, the cost of living is 12% lower than the national average.
Fayetteville is ideal for young adults because of the potential job opportunities in the city. As per the report, Fayetteville market is going to grow at staggering rate of 61.22%. Apart from this, the city’s average rent is $1,542 for 965 sq. ft apartment.
» Homes For Sale in Fayetteville, AR: Find your dream home in one of the largest cities in Arkansas.
2. Bentonville: Best City in Arkansas for Job Seekers
| Home Value | ⬆️ 4.4% |
| Median Income | $99,074 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,699 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.9% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 57/100 |
The median home price in Bentonville is $508,000. The city’s cost of living is 12% less than the national average. Also, Bentonville has a booming job market, with an average annual salary of $66,386. Also, the unemployment rate in the city is 2.9%.
The city is home to Walmart headquaters one of the top businesses in US. Other major companies in the city are J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc., Tyson Foods, and RevUnit.
» Homes For Sale in Bentonville, AR: View the best properties in best places to live in Arkansas.
3. Cave Springs: Live in One of the Safest City
| Home Value | ⬆️ 3.6% |
| Median Income | $143,393 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,699 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.4% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 57/100 |
The median home price in Cave Springs is $535,000. The cost of living in the city is 8.4% lower than the US average. It is one of the safest place to live in Arkansas because of its crime rate of 12.3% lesser than national average. In the latest reported crime year, Cave Springs recorded zero homicides.
Cave Springs has an A+ rating in terms of housing parameters. Apart from this, transportation costs are lower compared to other cities that is 86.7%. Moreover, it has an unemployment rate of fairly low in this city.
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4. Bella Vista: Best State to Live in for Families
| Home Value | ⬆️ 2.4% |
| Median Income | $83,989 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,699 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.8% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 57/100 |
The median home price in Bella Vista is $322,500. The cost of living in the city is 16% lower than the US average. Bella Vista is a affordable city when it comes to housing.
The city is also home to renowned college such as Northwest Arkansas Community College. Apart from this, the city has numerous parks such is Bella Vista Lake Park and Cooper Park which is a great place for families with kids.
» Homes For Sale in Bella Vista, AR: Find the best properties in the Bella Vista neighborhood.
5. Centerton: One of the Best Arkansas Cities
| Home Value | ⬆️ 2.7% |
| Median Income | $104,464 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,699 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.4% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 57/100 |
Centerton is one of the best places to live in Arkansas. The median home price in the city is $362,366. The cost of housing in Centerton is 8.4% lower than the national average. The average rent for a 881 sq. ft. apartment is $1,211. Also, the city is in close proximity to an international airport.
Moreover, the city’s job market is projected to grow by 60.48% in the next years. The city has access to some great healthcare facilities such as Mercy Clinic Cardiology and Mercy Clinic Primary Care.
Try Arkansas’s #1 Mortgage Calculator to see how much house you can afford. Get an instant amortization schedule and a detailed cost breakdown for free💲.
6. Hillcrest: Live in One of the Vibrant City
| Home Value | ⬆️ 6.5% |
| Median Income | $58,697 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,337 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.4% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 64/100 |
The median home price in Hillcrest is $375,000. The cost of living in the city is 13% higher than the national average. Moreover, the city has a great educational setup. It’s home to the prestigious Hillcrest School District.
Apart from this, Hillcrest has charming Art-Deco architecture and an active community that hosts many events. Major employers in Hillcrest include UALR, UAMS Hospital, and St. Vincent Infirmary.
» Homes For Sale in Hillcrest, AR: Find your dream home in best cities to live in Arkansas.
7. Rogers: Best Places to Retire in Arkansas
| Home Value | ⬆️ 6.3% |
| Median Income | $78,075 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,337 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.4% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 55/100 |
The median home price in Rogers is $390,000. The city’s cost of living and housing are 8.4% and 28% lower than the national average, respectively.
Rogers is a hot spot for major employers like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt. It is home to several active retirement communities that offers services and activities for senior citizen. Apart from this, the city has excellent medical services making it one of the best places for retirees.
» Homes For Sale in Rogers, AR: View thousands of properties for sale in .
Bottom Line
Arkansas is one of the best places to live in the US due to its thriving job market and low cost of living. Other factors that contribute are its excellent education system and vibrant city life.
Arkansas’s current population is 3 million, and it’s projected to increase by ~1 million by 2045. Moreover, Bentonville is one of the important cities with major employers.
In a few cities in Arkansas, the median home price is around $322K, whereas in cities like Cave Springs, it can go up to $553K. So, you must do your research before you move to Arkansas. To start your home search, browse properties online.
» Free Home Value Estimator: Get an estimate of property values with Arkansas’ most accurate home value estimator.
Browse Homes For Sale in Arkansas by Price and Type
Research Methodology
We considered different regions to rank the best places in Arkansas. The comparison criteria for the best cities to live in Arkansas and the information sources are as follows:
- Population: Arkansas Demographics Report[1]
- Median Home Price: Zillow[2] and Redfin[3]
- Median Household Income: United States Census Bureau[4]
- Monthly Expenses: Economic Policy Institute[5]
- Unemployment Rate: US Bureau of Labor Statistics[6]
- Community Well-Being Score: Community Well-Being Index by Sharecare[7]
Additionally, we have listed the good cities to live in Arkansas for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, retirees, and working professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the best places to live in Arkansas for young adults?
Fayetteville and Hillcrest are the best places to live in Arkansas for young adults. The city's cost of living is low and has a flourishing job market.
Is Arkansas a good place to live?
Yes, Arkansas is a good place to live. Its affordable housing and cost of living makes it best places to live in. The state is known for its natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic drives.
Which is the cheapest place to live in Arkansas?
Helena-West Helena is the cheapest place to live in Arkansas. The home prices and cost of living in the city are the lowest in the state.
