Top 15 Most Desirable Cities to Live in Arkansas

If you are captivated by nature and the extensive wilderness of America, then you will undoubtedly recognize the allure of Arkansas. Any avid hiker would find it challenging to resist the call of the Ozarks, where the adventurous trails and wooded landscapes remain breathtakingly picturesque.

Arkansas boasts several delightful locations to reside, with a cost of living significantly lower than many of the other 49 states in the United States.

When considering your next residence, it is essential to evaluate factors such as crime statistics, cost of living, and accessibility to transportation routes for employment. Moreover, aspects such as the availability of high-quality public schooling, community diversity, and healthcare accessibility are likely considerations that must be addressed prior to relocating to Arkansas.

Recognizing the difficulty often faced in compiling this information in a clear, digestible format, we took it upon ourselves to discover the best places to live in Arkansas, providing you with a well-rounded selection of options.

Furthermore, we paid heed to feedback from local residents regarding their neighborhoods, ensuring a comprehensive and authentic viewpoint regarding each location.

Let us commence exploring these areas;

1. Bentonville

Source: brad_holt / Flickr

Bentonville presents some of the most stunning mountain vistas and is recognized as one of the prime locations to reside within Arkansas. With its flourishing economy, numerous families from across the United States are gravitating towards this city. While living in Bentonville, you will quickly discover their exemplary education system, making it an excellent choice for families to establish their lives.

The vibrant downtown area is replete with diverse shopping and dining establishments for local residents to enjoy their leisure time. From its rich historical background to its cultural offerings, Bentonville encompasses everything one could require without the necessity to venture into densely populated urban centers!

Additionally, Bentonville is noted for its solid economy, variety of entertainment options, and affordable living costs. The unemployment rate in Bentonville stands at 2.9%, significantly below the national average, while its living costs are 1.3% lower than the national average of the United States.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the best things to do in Bentonville include:

• The Walmart Museum
• Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
• Museum of Native American History
• Orchards Park
• Amazeum
• Wishing Spring Gallery
• Bentonville Town Square
• Back Nine Golf Academy

2. Cammack Village

Source: www.jeffkayle.com

Cammack Village embodies the small-town allure that many desire in a community. The area is characterized by tree-lined streets, charming residences, and gardens gracing nearly every property.

Residents of Cammack Village appreciate the locality for its multitude of outdoor activities, including golfing, fishing, and al fresco dining at nearby establishments. When it comes to amenities, traveling too far to find what you need is unnecessary. Cammack Village is conveniently located near Little Rock, where various entertainment, museums, and shopping options can be found.

Moreover, Cammack Village is recognized for its city-like conveniences, affordable living expenses, and superior healthcare. The unemployment rate in Cammack Village rests at 5.7%, slightly below the national average, while the cost of living is 10.7% less than the national average.

Entertainment & Activities

Noteworthy activities in or around Cammack Village include:

• Museum of Discovery
• Big Dam Bridge
• Old State House Museum
• Little Rock Zoo
• Rock Town Distillery
• Historic Arkansas Museum
• Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

3. Fayetteville

Source: Brandonrush / Wikimedia

Located in Washington County, Fayetteville ranks amongst the best places to live in Arkansas. With a population of approximately ninety-two thousand, it also hosts the University of Arkansas.

Given the substantial educational opportunities available, it is no surprise that 60% of the populace resides in rental properties, signifying ample choices exist. While this area typically presents a lower income, its residents are diverse and well-educated; 22% possess a master’s degree or higher.

Fayetteville is distinguished by its robust economy, extensive entertainment options, and low cost of living. The unemployment rate is 3.9%, placing it beneath the national average, while the cost of living is 8.2% lower than the national average, solidifying its status as one of the most economical cities in Arkansas.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the best things to do in Fayetteville comprise:

• The Fayetteville Farmers Market
• Wilson Park
• Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks
• Self-Guided Beer Tour
• Baum Stadium
• The Clinton House Museum
• The Walton Arts Center
• Fayetteville Downtown Square & Gardens
• Lake Fayetteville

4. Centerton

Source: sevenMaps7 / shutterstock

Adjacently located to Bentonville to the west, Centerton is home to 10,764 residents, and is often recognized as an extension of Bentonville. However, many locals would argue that Centerton possesses its own distinct identity, complete with ample amenities and facilities to cater to its community. Popular dining options such as El Farolito and Jim’s Razorback Pizza are local favorites worth exploring!

Centerton is particularly favorable for families, featuring 14 exceptional public schools ensuring quality education from elementary through high school.

The median home value in Centerton is quite reasonable, remaining below the national average. With the average household income exceeding $50,000 annually, the neighborhood can be considered attainable for many.

Entertainment & Activities

Amongst the noteworthy activities in or near Centerton are:

• Centerton Farmers Market
• The Walmart Museum
• Daisy Airgun Museum
• Rogers Aquatics Center
• Rogers Little Theater

5. Little Flock

Source: www.zillow.com

With a population of approximately three thousand residents, Little Flock is among Arkansas’s smaller towns. While living in Little Flock, you will discover how warm and welcoming its residents are to both locals and newcomers. Offering a variety of shopping and dining options, Little Flock holds something for everyone.

Thanks to its exceptional public school system, concerns regarding education are minimized in Little Flock. Outdoor enthusiasts will find abundant activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and exploring scenic parks.

Additionally, with Little Rock showcasing a robust economy alongside low living costs, the unemployment rate here is comparatively low at 3.4%, while living expenses remain slightly below the national average, making Little Flock an appealing option for families and retirees alike.

Entertainment & Activities

Noteworthy attractions in Little Flock consist of:

• War Eagle Cavern
• The Railyard Bike Park
• Orchard Park
• Great Day Skate Place
• Skylight Cinema Movie Theater
• Horsebarn Park

6. Johnson

Source: Brandonrush / Wikimedia

If you seek a small town with a cozy and tranquil ambiance, Johnson should be a top contender. This community houses around three thousand residents, fostering an environment where neighbors are familiar and supportive of one another.

Residents in Johnson appreciate socializing and capitalizing on the numerous outdoor activities such as biking, camping, and fishing. Johnson is recognized for its solid economy, diverse activities, and affordable living expenses.

Furthermore, the unemployment rate in Johnson stands at 3.5%, significantly below the national average, while the cost of living is available at 10% under the national average, making Johnson a sought-after location for families.

Entertainment & Activities

Prominent activities to partake in or around Johnson feature:

• Ozark National Forest
• Clarksville Aquatic Center
• Lake Dardanelle
• Petit Jean State Park
• Lee Creek Hiking Trails
• Walton Arts Center

7. Cave Springs

Source: Wawan eko yulianto / Wikimedia

Cave Springs is a town comprising approximately five thousand residents and ranks amongst the best places to reside in Arkansas. It is distinguished by its rich wildlife and temperate climate, rendering it a suitable environment for individuals of all ages.

Cave Springs also boasts an exceptional public school system, a significant selling point for families contemplating purchasing property. With its stunning scenery and variety of amenities, it is rare for residents to feel the need to leave.

Cave Springs exhibits a progressive economy, characterized by an unemployment rate of 3.4%, while the cost of living is about 3.8% higher than the national average. However, it remains more affordable than numerous regions throughout the country.

Entertainment & Activities

Activities of interest in or near Cave Springs include:

• Cave Springs City Park
• The Walmart Museum
• War Eagle Cavern
• Fast Lane Entertainment Bowling Alley
• Horsebarn Park
• Wildwood Park

8. Rogers

Source: RaksyBH / shutterstock

Rogers is among the larger cities in the state, home to approximately sixty-eight thousand residents. While residing in Rogers, you will have the opportunity to experience entertainment at the Pinnacle Hills Promenade and shopping at The Walmart Amphitheater.

Residents appreciate the picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks such as the Daisy Airgun Museum and Lake Atalanta. Given its thriving economy, beautiful scenery, diverse amenities, and affordable living costs, it is no wonder families from across the nation are establishing their lives here.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the best things to do in Rogers include:

• Rogers Historical Museum
• Daisy Airgun Museum
• Museum of Native American History
• Amazeum
• 21c Museum

9. Conway

Source: OpenSkyMedia / Flickr

Situated in central Arkansas, the city of Conway, with its population of sixty-three thousand residents, ranks as one of the finest places to settle in the state. With numerous attractions, boredom is hardly likely to occur in this dynamic city.

The residents of Conway capitalize on recreational activities, such as leisurely walks in Cadron Settlement Park. Coupled with its burgeoning economy, low cost of living, and extensive array of attractions, many families are now opting to make Conway their home.

In addition, Conway’s unemployment rate is recorded at 4.2%, slightly below the national average, while its living expenses are a staggering 20% lower than the national average. An abundance of recreational activities paired with affordability—what more could one desire?

Entertainment & Activities

Among the best things to do in Conway are:

• Thunder Road Grand Prix
• Cadron Settlement Park
• Beaverfork Lake Park
• Whole Hog Café
• The Hogwild Family Fun Center

10. Bella Vista

Source: Michael J. Munster / shutterstock

Initially designed as a seasonal retreat for individuals seeking a connection with nature, Bella Vista has transformed into a favored location for retirees, fostering a thriving senior community that has cultivated a welcoming and homelike atmosphere.

Situated in Bentonville, this mountainous region in the Ozarks represents one of the top living destinations in Arkansas. With a residency of nearly thirty thousand, Bella Vista boasts numerous outdoor spaces for exploration, including hiking trails and Beaver Lake.

With an abundance of rivers and lakes, Bella Vista truly lives up to its name. Even though there exists a robust aging community, families will also find this environment appealing, supported by some of the best public schools present in the state.

Entertainment & Activities

The best things to do in Bella Vista include:

• Bella Vista Museum
• Tanyard Creek Nature Trail
• Veterans Wall of Honor
• Bella Vista Discover Art Festival

11. Maumelle

Source: maumelle-ar.purzuit.com

Maumelle is a suburb of Little Rock, but with its population of 17,600, it stands as a unique and distinct community. This area represents our most expensive option thus far, yet compared to other parts of the country, living here remains relatively reasonable.

The properties in Maumelle are priced around the national average, with options for more luxurious properties available. Overall, the value for money in Maumelle is commendable.

This area has gained popularity among millennials, paralleling Little Flock in attracting this demographic. Local residents appreciate the Super Walmart, as well as the numerous diners and restaurants scattered throughout the town.

Entertainment & Activities

Among the best things to do in Maumelle are:

• Lake Maumelle
• Lake Willastein Park
• Smoke Shack BBQ
• Pinnacle Mountain State Park
• Allsopp Park
• U.S. Pizza Company
• Wild River Country
• Little Rock Zoo

12. Lowell

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Lowell represents another top choice for residing in Arkansas, nestled in Benton County. This area possesses a rich history dating back to the 1840s, having been the first settlement along the Old Wire Road and suffering destruction during the Civil War.

Currently home to over eight thousand residents, Lowell retains a rural charm with limited nightlife. The community prefers to spend their evenings in the comfort of their homes rather than partaking in urban festivities.

Home prices in this area align closely with those in the rest of Arkansas and are even lower than many previously highlighted areas.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the best things to do in Lowell include:

• The Grove
• Bentonville Whiskey Festival
• Arkansas Derby
• Ozark Axe House
• Dogwood Canyon

13. Siloam Springs

Source: RaksyBH / shutterstock

With an artistic and hipster-influenced downtown, Siloam Springs hosts a thriving Christian community, resulting in a diverse population of around sixteen thousand residents.

The median rent in Siloam Springs is notably affordable, sitting below the national average, as its hardworking residents earn an average of around $50,000 annually.

There is little criticism to be found here, with Siloam Springs neither underperforming nor overly excelling compared to other regions in Arkansas, offering a serene, charming, and functional living environment.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the best things to do in Siloam Springs encompass:

• Natural Falls State Park
• Siloam Springs Kayak Park
• Siloam Springs Farmers Market
• Wild Wilderness Drive thru Safari
• Creekside Taproom
• City Lake

14. Little Rock

Source: amadeustx / shutterstock

You will hardly find a state capital that does not feature in the best places to reside, and Arkansas’ Little Rock certainly maintains that standard. With ample housing and employment opportunities, a prosperous community of 196,000 people call Little Rock home, making it the most densely populated area on our list thus far.

The array of properties available for investment in Little Rock is extensive. For an affordable price, one could acquire a modest 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom family home. Alternatively, for those with a substantial budget, investing in an opulent 5-bedroom inner-city residence with 4 bathrooms is certainly possible.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the most enjoyable activities in Little Rock comprise:

• Museum of Discovery
• Big Dam Bridge
• Rock Town Distillery
• Little Rock Zoo
• Pinnacle Mountain

15. Bryant

Source: metrolittlerockguide.com

Although classified as a suburb of Little Rock, Bryant, with over nineteen thousand residents, possesses its own unique identity and community. Locals often express that everyone in Bryant is interconnected in some manner.

According to findings from niche.com, Bryant ranks as the second safest suburb in Arkansas, with crime levels remaining exceedingly low, aside from the occasional theft or burglary typical of urban locales.

For Arkansas specifications, Bryant is considered a reasonably affluent neighborhood, with the average household income at $60,000 per year. Nonetheless, the community remains accessible, with both parents typically employed and children attending public schools. Residents often cite Bryant as a safe, clean, and excellent area in which to live.

Entertainment & Activities

Notable activities in Bryant encompass:

• The Royal Theater
• Outlets of Little Rock
• Painted Tree Marketplace
• Riverfront Park
• Old State House Museum
• River Market District