Located in the heart of the Deep South, Arkansas is a perfect mix of scenic beauty, room to grow and proper southern hospitality. From the verdant Ozark Mountains to the rolling Delta farmland, our state has it all. Whether you’re looking for affordability, green living, family-friendly communities or an active outdoor lifestyle, Arkansas is home to some hidden gems that may inspire your search. Read on below to learn more about best places to live in Arkansas.
1. Fayetteville: A Dynamic College Town with Natural Beauty
Fayetteville is rated as one of the best places to live in Arkansas and U.S. This lively college town, its home to the University of Arkansas, can also offer a lively art and music scene, an easily walkable downtown and lots of local eats.
A mix of city life and outdoor excursions can be found in Fayetteville. Residents have easy access to the Ozark National Forest, bike-friendly trails such as the Razorback Greenway, and cultural events around the calendar: a music festival in late May and early June, the Fayetteville Roots Festival in August, and the Fayetteville Film Fest in the fall. The public schools are well regarded, which appeals to families. With such a youthful spirit and an ever-expanding job market, Fayetteville is the city of choice for not only young professionals, but students as well.
2. Bentonville: The Cultural and Economic Powerhouse
Primarily recognized as the birthplace of Walmart, Bentonville has morphed into an epicenter of innovation and culture in recent years. Supported by the Walton family, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is making its mark, bringing high-quality art and architecture to the middle of Arkansas.
Bentonville also has great schools, safe neighborhoods and a robust economy. It lures both families and entrepreneurs, especially those in the tech and logistics industries. With mountain biking trails, state-of-the-art urban planning and a culinary scene that may now rival San Francisco’s, Bentonville is the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city living.
3. Little Rock: Urban Amenities with Historic Character
As the capital of Arkansas, Little Rock is the political, cultural, and economic center of the State. It’s perfect for people who like city amenities without the hurly-burly of a mega-metropolis. Little Rock is steeped in history, including the must-see Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site.
Loft apartments, cafes, and art galleries are increasing in Downtown Little Rock. For families, the Hillcrest and West Little Rock neighborhoods offer quiet streets and strong schools. The city is also home to one of the state’s largest job markets, perfect for young professionals on the go.
4. Hot Springs: A Peaceful Retreat for Nature Lovers
Hot Springs is home to naturally heated springs and historic bathhouses. But it has more to offer than tourism, a quality of life that attracts retirees, lovers of the outdoors and remote workers. Hot Springs is a sanctuary for relaxation, thanks to a lower cost of living, lakes, hiking trails and thermal waters.
Tourism, health care and education support the local economy. The city is also home to a burgeoning arts scene and countless annual festivals. Whether you’re kayaking on Lake Hamilton or visiting Hot Springs National Park, this city boasts a laid-back existence amid the great outdoors.
5. Conway: The City of Colleges with a Family-Friendly Feel
Conway is commonly known as “The City of Colleges” because it is home to three institutions of higher learning. It’s an expanding city located just 30 minutes north of Little Rock with the perks of big-city amenities and a suburban feel.
Conway is growing fast, due in part to its strong job market, which is good in education and tech. A city with great public schools, low crime, and community events, it is an ideal place to raise a family. Conway With a lively downtown and numerous parks, Conway is great for young families and professionals looking for balance.
6. Jonesboro: A Growing City in Northeast Arkansas
Jonesboro is the largest town in northeastern Arkansas and the fifth most populous in the state. It’s a regional hub for health care, education and retail, with an array of services and jobs available to residents.
The cost of living is also affordable, and house prices are reasonable, so if it’s a home you’re after, that is easily achievable. Jonesboro provides a suburban lifestyle with a small-town feel, including farmers markets, community events and outdoor spaces like Craighead Forest Park. It is one of the best places to buy property in Arkansas, particularly if you’re looking to invest in developing areas of the state.
7. Rogers: Scenic and Suburban in Northwest Arkansas
Rogers, a fast-growing city on the northwest border of the state, and a part of the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metro area. It provides a mixture of suburban lifestyle and scenic nature. From downtown historic to to the scenic beauty, outdoor activity for all and the best outdoor activities.
The job market is strong, in part because it is located near major employers like Walmart and Tyson Foods. Rogers is also geared toward family, with parks, schools, and recreational choices. Its growth, economy and lifestyle allow newbies there find it difficult to resist.
8. Bella Vista: A Retirement Paradise in the Ozarks
Once planned as a retirement community, Bella Vista has grown into a full-featured haven for families, seniors and outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Bella Vista has beautiful lakes, exceptional golf courses, and rolling hiking trails.
The Bella Vista Real Estate Market Especially if you’re starting in the housing market in Bella Vista, Ella Jo Baker and surrounding areas, you should find plenty of large lots and peace and quiet. There’s also a substantial community presence here, with a calendar chocked-full of clubs, events, and outdoor pursuits. The community still draws people who seek an active but peaceful lifestyle.
9. Siloam Springs: Small Town with Big Appeal
Hidden in the corner of the state, Siloam Springs is a small town with a lot of character and heart. Home to John Brown University, it has a charming downtown with boutiques, cafes and art galleries.
Lovers of nature enjoy the close proximity to the Illinois River and the surrounding parks. Siloam Springs for a slower quality of life, cheaper homes, and the welcoming ambience. It’s a small-town feel place for small-town seeker without being miles from civilization.
10. Mountain Home: Ideal for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Located in north-central Arkansas, Mountain Home is cherished for its proximity to Norfork and Bull Shoals Lakes. This means it is a winter wonderland for fishing, boating, and hiking. The cost of living is cheap, and the community pulls together.
Though the rhythm is tempered compared to that of a larger city, Mountain Home exudes peace, natural beauty and quality of life. It’s particularly appealing to retirees or anyone searching to escape the noise and reconnect with nature.
Why Move to Arkansas?
In Arkansas we have a unique blend of low cost of living, beautiful environment, and good people. Whether you prefer the urban amenities of Little Rock, mountain vibes of Fayetteville or the tranquil waters of Hot Springs, it will feel like home.
And for veterans and service members wanting to put down roots, there are terrific VA loans in Arkansas that make homeownership more affordable. Loans like these are available with no down payment, and offer competitive interest rates that can help service members establish a future in one of the state’s friendly towns.
Final Thoughts
Arkansas welcomes with equally beautiful regions that are altogether quite different. And with welcoming communities, job opportunities and natural beauty, it’s easy to understand why Air Force partners are moving to The Natural State. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, raise a family or retire, you might find that one of these best places to live in Arkansas could be your fresh start.