Stretch your dollar further in Arkansas! The median house price in the Natural State is just $256,000 and the cost of living is 22.5% lower than the US average. Even tax structure works in your favor with the low property tax at just 0.57% and no tax on Social Security benefits!
Whether you seek the booming job market of Bentonville, a family-friendly suburb of Lowell, or a retirement in Elm Springs with scenic views and top-tier healthcare, Arkansas has it all. So let’s explore the best places to live in Arkansas in great detail.
What are the Best Places to Live in Arkansas?
| # City | Weighted Average Scores | Median House Price | Median Income | Cost of Living | Community Wellbeing | Crime Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Little Rock | 68.98 | $235,738 | $80,633 | 5.30% ⬇️ | 64 | 1 |
| 2. Lowell | 51.64 | $353,450 | $91,524 | 8.20%⬇️ | 57 | 44 |
| 3. Cave Springs | 49.73 | $530,000 | $151,273 | 8.30%⬇️ | 57 | 9 |
| 4. Centerton | 49.07 | $363,000 | $113,460 | 8.80%⬇️ | 57 | 64 |
| 5. Siloam Springs | 48.62 | $239,900 | $70,042 | 8.80%⬇️ | 57 | 15 |
| 6. Rogers | 44.54 | $439,900 | $88,432 | 8.50%⬇️ | 57 | 21 |
| 7. Elm Springs | 42.52 | $699,000 | $133,696 | 8.00%⬇️ | 56 | 9 |
| 8. Bentonville | 41.25 | $487,500 | $125,942 | 8.70%⬇️ | 57 | 34 |
| 9. Fort Smith | 34.83 | $169,900 | $62,787 | 13.00%⬇️ | 56 | 2 |
| 10. Jonesboro | 32.13 | $188,750 | $68,698 | 12.30%⬇️ | 52 | 5 |
*These cities are ranked based on our research methodology.
To simplify your search in the Arkansas housing market, we’ve sorted the top 10 cities into four categories: for young adults, for families, for retirees, and beach towns. Each city is evaluated based on career opportunities, affordability, community wellbeing, and lifestyle.
2 Best Cities to Live in Arkansas for Young Adults 💼
1. Little Rock
- Median House Price: $235K
- Cost of Living: 5.30% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 1% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 4.40%
- Walkability Score: 47; car-dependent city.
Home to the University of Arkansas, the capital city offers plenty of career opportunities. Healthcare is the largest sector accounting for 19.5% of jobs. Moreover, its central location keeps you connected to the state. If you are a young professional, this is the place to be!
Explore scenic trails at Pinnacle Mountain State Park or walk across the Big Dam Bridge, the longest pedestrian bridge in North America. Additionally, the city hosts events such as the Movies in the Park Festival with movie screenings and food.
» Little Rock Homes for Sale: Search top properties in the best place to live in Arkansas.
2. Bentonville
- Median House Price: $487K
- Cost of Living: 8.70% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 34% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 3.20%
- Walkability Score: 44; car-dependent city.
Bentonville is home to major organizations such as Walmart, the retail sector accounts for over 33% of local jobs. Moreover, housing costs are 17% lower than the national average, which makes it an affordable place for young professionals.
Downtown Bentonville is a lively place to be, it has eateries like The Meteor, famous for its craft beers, and hosts multiple annual events including the Bentonville Film Festival. Moreover, you can explore the trails at Slaughter Pen or Osage Park for wetland recreation.
» Bentonville Homes for Sale: Find top properties in one of the best towns to live in Arkansas.
3 Best Places to Live in Arkansas for Families 👨👩👧👦
1. Centerton
- Median House Price: $363K
- Cost of Living: 8.80% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Score: Safer than 64% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 0.90%
- Walkability Score: 5; car-dependent city.
Its proximity to Bentonville and a very good safety record make it a perfect choice for commuters. Moreover, nearby Lake Centerton is a popular spot to fish, while El Pueblito Restaurant is a local favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine.
Centerton hosts various annual events like the Breakfast Brew and 72 West Wine & Food Festival, to encourage community engagement. An abundance of parks, recreation, and community events provides a perfect environment to raise a family.
» Centerton Homes for Sale: Find homes in one of the best towns to live in Arkansas.
2. Lowell
- Median House Price: $353K
- Cost of Living: 8.20% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 44% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 0.90%
- Walkability Score: 45; car-dependent city.
Lowell’s schools rank better than 91.3% of U.S. districts. Additionally, housing expenses here are 31% lower than the national average. This means more savings and better opportunities. These factors make Lowell perfect for families.
When it comes to fun, Lowell has plenty to offer! Start your weekend with a round of mini-golf at Golf Mountain. Then, race go-karts or bowl at Fast Lane Entertainment. Finally, end your night with a comedy show or live performance at The Grove.
» Lowell Homes for Sale: Look for properties in one of the best towns to live in Arkansas.
3. Siloam Springs
- Median House Price: $239K
- Cost of Living: 8.80% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 15% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 2.60%
- Walkability Score: 75; very walkable.
The schools in Siloam Springs outperform 47.1% of all U.S. schools. Apart from this, Manufacturing is the largest sector with over 21% of the jobs. With its cheaper housing cost and strong community ties, Siloam Springs is a top choice for families.
You can explore the scenic Siloam Springs Regional Park for adventure, while the nearby Siloam Springs Aquatic Center is the perfect spot for a day of family fun! Finally, don’t forget to stroll through the downtown for delicious food, and seasonal events.
» Siloam Springs Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best places to live in AR.
3 Best Places to Live in Arkansas for Retirees🏖️
1. Fort Smith
- Median House Price: $169K
- Cost of Living: 13% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 2% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 6.10%
- Walkability Score: 72; very walkable.
Fort Smith is bursting with history and adventure! Want to explore the Wild West? The Fort Smith National Historic Site lets you walk through the past. Moreover, outdoor enthusiasts can explore Creekmore Park, with its walking trails and serene pond.
With a cost of living 13% lower than the national average, you will enjoy more affordability. A community well-being score of 56 means you can embrace a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle. Retire in Fort Smith and enjoy the perfect place to unwind!
» Fort Smith Homes for Sale: Search homes in one of the best places to live in Arkansas for retirees.
2. Jonesboro
- Median House Price: $188k
- Cost of Living: 12.30% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 5% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 6.70%
- Walkability Score: 0; car-dependent city.
Often referred to as the ‘City of Southern Hospitality’, Jonesboro offers a mix of culture, history, and small-town charm! You can catch a game at Centennial Bank Stadium. Alternatively, you can also explore parks like Craighead Forest Park for fun and recreation.
Moreover, housing cost here is 35.5% cheaper than in state average. Additionally, the city serves as the regional healthcare hub for Northeast Arkansas with institutions like NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital. The city is considered best for retirees.
» Jonesboro Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of best cities to live in Arkansas.
3. Elm Springs
- Median House Price: $699K
- Cost of Living: 8% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 9% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 0.90%
- Walkability Score: 16; car-dependent city.
Situated in northwest Arkansas, Elm Spring offers a picturesque landscape of the Chihuahuan Desert. The town is renowned for its friendly, safe, and peaceful environment—ideal for those looking to enjoy a quiet retirement.
You can spend your mornings relaxing by Lake Elmdale or enjoy a quiet picnic in Elm Springs City Park. The park also offers walking trails, which makes it easy to stay active and enjoy the fresh air.
» Elm Springs Homes for Sale: Browse homes in one of the best areas to live in Arkansas.
2 Best Areas to Live in Arkansas Near the Mountains 🏔️
1. Rogers
- Median House Price: $439K
- Cost of Living: 8.50% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 21% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 2.90%
- Walkability Score: 42; car-dependent city.
Situated in the Ozark Mountains region of Northwest Arkansas, Rogers is an emerging city with a dynamic job market and affordable living. With over 22% of the workforce in the retail sector, the city offers a great small-town experience for everyone.
But Rogers is equally fun at the weekend! You can hike at Lake Atalanta Park and enjoy the scenic trails. Apart from this, Pinnacle Hills Promenade is a premier shopping destination with a variety of retail stores and dining options.
» Rogers Homes for Sale: Explore houses in one of the best places in Arkansas to live.
2. Cave Springs
- Median House Price: $530K
- Cost of Living: 8.30% ⬇️ than the national average.
- Crime Rate: Safer than 9% of U.S. cities.
- Unemployment: 1.30%
- Walkability Score: 9; car-dependent city.
Cave Spring is located in the valley of Osage Creek along the Lake Keith. The city is named after two caves and the spring that flows through them. You can spend your days fishing, boating, or simply soaking in the natural serenity.
Additionally, it is only a 15-minute drive from Bentonville, making it perfect for commuters. If you’re searching for the best places to live in Arkansas near the mountains, Cave Springs is your answer.
» Cave Springs Homes for Sale: Explore homes in one of the best areas to live in Arkansas.
Mortgage Pre-Approval: Your First Step to Buy a Home 🏡
Mortgage pre-approval simplifies the home-buying process by giving you a clear picture of your budget and borrowing capacity. Additionally, the sellers are more likely to accept your offer if you’re pre-approved since it shows you’re a serious buyer.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.8%, there is an increase in home-buying demand in Arkansas. So, don’t wait. Get a mortgage pre-approval today and avoid bidding wars!
Is Arkansas a Good Place to Live?
Arkansas is one of the best places to live in the U.S. thanks to its booming job market, top-notch education system, and great climate. Moreover, the price of living in Arkansas is 7% lower than the national average.
Whether you’re in search of career opportunities in Bentonville, top schools in Little Rock, or peaceful retirement in Hot Springs, Arkansas lets you have it all!
Browse Homes for Sale in Arkansas by Price and Type
Research Methodology for the Best Places to Live in Arkansas
This study ranks cities using a weighted average scoring model based on eight parameters. We’ve linked the resources used in our study of the best places to live in The Natural State:
- Redfin[1]: Median House Price
- Zipatlas[2]: Population, Median Income, Expenses, Unemployment Rate
- Salary.com[3]: Cost of Living
- Sharecare[4]: Community Well-Being
- Neighborhoodscout[5]: Crime Index Score
The total score for each city combines a weighted score for its rank. Here’s the weightage: population (10%), home price (20%), income (20%), expenses (15%), unemployment (15%), cost of living (10%), crime index (5%), and well-being (5%).
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, and retirees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arkansas a good place to live?
Arkansas offers a low cost of living, excellent outdoor activities, and a relaxed pace of life. If you’re considering moving to Arkansas, now could be a great time to explore the opportunities Arkansas has to offer.
Where is the best place to live in Arkansas?
Cities like Centerton, Lowell, and Cave Springs are among the top choices to live in Arkansas. But everyone have different needs and preferences, understanding how to buy a house in Arkansas can make it easier to find the perfect home in these areas.
What are the cheapest yet nicest places to live in Arkansas?
Cities like Fort Smith and jonesboro offer affordable living with a great quality of life. However Helena-West Helena is one of the cheapest places to live in Arkansas .
