Best Cities To Live In Arkansas (2026 Guide)
Last updated 03/19/2024 by
Benjamin LockeEdited by
Andrew LathamSummary:
Arkansas, “The Natural State,” is celebrated for its diverse living experiences, from the bustling city life in Little Rock to the serene beauty of the Ozarks. This article explores the unique aspects of Bentonville, Hill Crest, and Rogers, highlighting their economic growth, healthcare, education, and walkability, showcasing Arkansas as a state of varied opportunities and vibrant community life.
Arkansas, known as “The Natural State,” offers a harmonious blend of serene natural landscapes and vibrant cultural life. From the bustling streets of Little Rock to the scenic beauty of the Ozarks, Arkansas provides a diverse living experience for all. Here is our list of the best cities to live in Arkansas based on key factors, such as cost of living, economy, schools, hospitals, and walkability.
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Top 3 cities to live in Arkansas
Bentonville
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Northwest Arkansas, Bentonville is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern innovation. Known as the birthplace of the retail giant Walmart, Bentonville has evolved from a quiet rural town into a bustling hub of commerce and culture. This transformation has attracted a diverse population and fostered a unique blend of Southern charm and contemporary living.
Bentonville Snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $438,306 |
| Cost of Living | 90.720 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 15.65 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Bentonville experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, offering a comfortable living environment throughout the year. |
Bentonville healthcare
Bentonville, a city known for its dynamic growth and innovation, also boasts a robust healthcare system. The city’s medical facilities and healthcare services reflect its commitment to providing quality care to its residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bentonville Hospitals | Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville is a key healthcare provider in the city, offering a range of services, including cardiac care and open-heart surgery. |
| Other Notable Facilities | Other significant healthcare facilities in Bentonville include the Mercy Primary Care Clinic on J Street, which provides family medical care, and the Heartland Whole Health Institute, set to enhance the city’s healthcare landscape. |
Bentonville walkability
Bentonville, while known for its rapid growth and development, presents a different scenario in terms of walkability compared to more urbanized cities. The city’s layout and infrastructure reflect a blend of modern planning and natural landscapes.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Bentonville has an average Walk Score of 24, indicating that most errands require a car. The city’s layout is more car-dependent than pedestrian-oriented. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Despite the overall score, there are specific areas in Bentonville that offer more walkability, particularly around the downtown area and certain residential neighborhoods. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Bentonville varies significantly by neighborhood. Some newer developments are designed with walkability in mind, while older areas are less pedestrian-friendly. |
| City Ranking | Compared to larger cities, Bentonville’s walkability score is lower, reflecting its suburban characteristics and reliance on vehicular transportation. |
Bentonville education
Bentonville, Arkansas, is not just a hub for business and culture; it also boasts a strong educational system. The city’s schools are known for their high standards, innovative approaches, and commitment to student success.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bentonville Area School Districts | Bentonville Public Schools is a top-rated district, known for its high academic standards and comprehensive educational programs. |
| High Schools in Bentonville | High schools in Bentonville, such as Bentonville High School, are recognized for their academic excellence and diverse offerings in arts and sciences. |
| Public School Performance | Bentonville’s public schools are known for their strong performance, with several schools consistently ranking high in state-wide assessments. |
| Top Public Schools in Bentonville | Notable schools in Bentonville include Haas Hall Bentonville and Willowbrook Elementary School, both highly regarded for their academic achievements. |
Pro Tip
“When looking for a place to live, the cost of living should be a top consideration. The quality of education is a significant concern for families with school-aged children because parents want their children to receive good quality education. Unfortunately, the better schools are going to be in more expensive areas with a high cost of living”. – Larry Snider, VP of Operations at Casago Sedona Vacation Rentals
Bentonville jobs and economy
Bentonville, Arkansas, widely recognized as the corporate headquarters of Walmart, has a dynamic and growing economy. The city’s economic landscape is characterized by a robust job market, diverse employment opportunities, and a strong future job growth outlook.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Bentonville has experienced a job market increase, with future job growth over the next ten years predicted to be 52.2%, which is higher than the national average. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Bentonville is $74,943. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Bentonville is projected to be robust, driven by the city’s expanding business landscape and corporate investments. |
| Recent Trends | Bentonville’s job market continues to grow, with a focus on diversification beyond retail into technology, logistics, and professional services. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The strong job market in Bentonville is a key factor in attracting new residents, contributing to the city’s population growth and economic vitality. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Bentonville’s economy is robust, supported by the presence of major corporations and a growing small business sector. |
Hillcrest
Hillcrest, Arkansas, a charming and vibrant neighborhood in Little Rock, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern living. Known for its tree-lined streets, eclectic mix of architecture, and a strong sense of community, Hillcrest is a popular choice for both residents and visitors.
Hillcrest snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $297,859 |
| Cost of Living | 89.157 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 73 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Hillcrest experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, offering a comfortable living environment throughout the year. |
Hillcrest healthcare
Hillcrest, a neighborhood in Little Rock, Arkansas, may not have the large-scale medical facilities of a major city, but it still offers quality healthcare services to its residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Hillcrest Hospitals | While Hillcrest itself may not host large hospitals, the Little Rock area, including Hillcrest, is served by several reputable healthcare facilities. Baptist Health Family Clinic-Hillcrest is a notable provider in the area, offering comprehensive family medical services. |
| Other Notable Facilities | The Springs of Hillcrest Health & Rehabilitation and Hillcrest Home are among the other significant healthcare facilities in the area that provide specialized care and rehabilitation services. |
Hillcrest walkability
Hillcrest, a neighborhood in Little Rock, Arkansas, offers a unique walkability experience that contrasts with the urban landscape of a city like Atlanta. Known for its charming streets and community atmosphere, Hillcrest provides a pedestrian-friendly environment.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Hillcrest is known for its walkability within Little Rock, with many amenities accessible on foot. The neighborhood’s layout encourages walking to local shops and eateries. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Kavanaugh Boulevard in Hillcrest is a notable area for its walkable streets lined with unique boutiques and restaurants, offering a pleasant pedestrian experience. |
| Neighborhood Variability | While Hillcrest is more walkable than many other areas in Little Rock, the walkability can vary within the neighborhood, with some areas being more pedestrian-friendly than others. |
| City Ranking | As part of Little Rock, Hillcrest contributes to the city’s overall walkability but stands out as one of the more pedestrian-friendly areas in the region. |
Hillcrest education
Hillcrest, Arkansas, may not have the same scale of educational infrastructure as a major city like Atlanta, but it still offers quality education through its school district.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Hillcrest Area School Districts | The Hillcrest School District serves the community, focusing on providing a comprehensive educational experience. The district is known for its licensed teachers and a favorable student-to-teacher ratio. |
| High Schools in Hillcrest | Hillcrest High School is a notable institution within the district, ranked for its performance on state-required tests, graduation rates, and overall academic performance. |
| Public School Performance | The Hillcrest School District emphasizes quality education, with a focus on student achievement and preparing students for higher education and career readiness. |
| Top Public Schools in Hillcrest | Within the Hillcrest School District, schools such as Hillcrest Elementary and Hillcrest Middle School are also highly regarded for their strong academic programs and commitment to student development. |
Hillcrest jobs and economy Overview
Hillcrest, a neighborhood in Little Rock, Arkansas, may not match the scale of Atlanta’s economy but still offers a range of employment opportunities and contributes to the local economic landscape.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Job opportunities in Hillcrest are diverse, ranging from customer service to specialized professional roles, reflecting a dynamic local job market. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Hill Crest is $55,858 |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Hillcrest is expected to align with the broader trends of the Little Rock area, with new opportunities emerging in various sectors. |
| Recent Trends | The job market in Hillcrest reflects the overall economic trends of Little Rock, with a focus on maintaining a balanced and diverse employment landscape. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | Hillcrest’s job market, lifestyle, and community appeal contribute to its attractiveness to new residents and workers. |
| Overall Economic Strength | While Hillcrest is a smaller community, its economy benefits from being part of the larger Little Rock area, known for its steady economic growth and diverse job opportunities. |
Rogers
Rogers, Arkansas, a city known for its rich history and modern development, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary lifestyle. This city, with its vibrant community and scenic beauty, has become an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
Rogers snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $333,702 |
| Cost of Living | 90.720 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 26 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Rogers experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons, offering a comfortable living environment throughout the year. |
Rogers healthcare
Rogers, Arkansas, while smaller than a major city like Atlanta, still boasts a strong healthcare system with several top-rated hospitals and medical facilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Rogers Hospitals | Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas in Rogers is a key healthcare provider, offering a wide range of services and committed to community health. (Source: Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas) |
| Other Notable Facilities | Other significant healthcare facilities in Rogers include the Benton County Health Unit, Rogers Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Community Clinic Rogers Medical, all providing comprehensive healthcare services. (Source: Arkansas Department of Health, Rogers Health and Rehabilitation Center, Community Clinic Rogers Medical) |
Rogers walkability
Rogers, Arkansas, offers a different walkability experience compared to a large urban center like Atlanta. While it has areas that are pedestrian-friendly, its overall walkability varies across the city.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Rogers has an average Walk Score of 20, indicating that most errands require a car. The city’s layout is more suburban, with limited walkable areas. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | There are specific areas in Rogers, like the Pinnacle Hills area, that are being developed with walkability in mind, aiming to create more pedestrian-friendly communities. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Rogers varies significantly by neighborhood. Some newer developments are designed with walkability in mind, while other areas are less conducive to walking. |
| City Ranking | Rogers is working towards improving its walkability, with ongoing developments and enhancements to its trail and greenway systems. |
Rogers education
Rogers, Arkansas, offers a robust education system with a variety of public and private schooling options, providing a strong educational foundation for its residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Rogers Area School Districts | Rogers Public Schools is the primary school district serving the city, known for its commitment to providing quality education and a range of programs for students. |
| High Schools in Rogers | Rogers boasts several high-performing high schools, including Rogers High School and Heritage High School, both known for their academic excellence and extracurricular programs. |
| Public School Performance | Rogers Public Schools are recognized for their strong performance in state assessments and a focus on student achievement and college readiness. |
| Top Public Schools in Rogers | Notable schools in Rogers include Bellview Elementary and Bonnie Grimes Elementary School, both highly regarded for their educational standards and student support. |
Rogers jobs and economy
Rogers, Arkansas, presents a growing and dynamic economy with a variety of job opportunities and a positive outlook for future growth.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Rogers has experienced significant job growth, with over 1,090 jobs created recently. The city leads Benton County in job creation. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Rogers is $74,943. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Rogers is projected at 46.1%, which is higher than the national average. |
| Recent Trends | Rogers has seen a diverse range of job opportunities, indicating a robust and growing job market. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The strong job market in Rogers, along with its quality of life, has been a factor in attracting new residents to the area. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Rogers’ economy is characterized by its retail trade, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors, contributing to its overall economic strength. |
Our methodology
In our methodology for identifying the best places to live in a state, we adopt a comprehensive and data-driven approach, relying on a variety of trusted and authoritative sources to compile our rankings. This process is outlined in the following steps:
Economic Data Analysis: We gather robust economic statistics from esteemed sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. These agencies provide us with critical data on employment rates, income levels, job growth, and other economic indicators that contribute significantly to the quality of life in an area.
Employment Opportunities: In addition to general economic data, we specifically examine employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This includes examining trends in job growth, the diversity of industries present, and the stability of employment in different regions, which are vital factors in determining a place's economic health and attractiveness.
Crime Rate Assessment: For understanding the safety and security of a place, we utilize data from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. This tool offers detailed insights into various types of crime rates, including both property and violent crimes, allowing us to assess the safety of a community comprehensively.
Housing Market Evaluation: Housing affordability and market trends are key components of our analysis. We primarily use Zillow.com for up-to-date and detailed information on house prices, trends in the housing market, and the overall affordability of living in different areas. When necessary, we also consult other reliable sources to validate and enrich our data.
Additional Quality of Life Factors: Recognizing that quality of life is influenced by a variety of factors, we also incorporate data from other official and reputable sources. This includes information on education quality, healthcare accessibility, environmental quality, transportation infrastructure, and recreational opportunities, among others.
Data Integration and Analysis: Upon gathering data from these diverse sources, we integrate and analyze it to provide a holistic view of each location. Our analysis involves not only looking at the raw numbers but also understanding the context and relative significance of each data point.
FAQ
What makes Bentonville, Arkansas, a unique place to live?
Bentonville, the birthplace of Walmart, is not just a business hub but also a cultural and artistic center, featuring attractions like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
How does the cost of living in Hill Crest, Arkansas, compare to other neighborhoods in Little Rock?
Hill Crest, a neighborhood in Little Rock, offers a cost of living that is slightly higher than the city average, reflecting its desirable amenities and close-knit community atmosphere.
What are the outdoor activities available in Arkansas?
Arkansas is renowned for its outdoor activities, including hiking in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, fishing in its abundant lakes and rivers, and exploring numerous state and national parks.
Is Arkansas a good state for education and schools?
Arkansas offers a range of educational opportunities, with well-regarded school districts and universities, including the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University.
What are the job opportunities like in Arkansas?
Arkansas provides diverse job opportunities, especially in sectors like retail in Bentonville, healthcare in Rogers, and government and non-profit organizations in Little Rock.
Key takeaways
- Bentonville, Arkansas, combines its rich history with modern innovation, making it a hub for commerce, culture, and a high quality of life.
- Hill Crest, a neighborhood in Little Rock, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern living, with a slightly higher cost of living than the city average.
- Rogers, Arkansas, is characterized by its strong healthcare system, diverse job opportunities, and a commitment to improving walkability and education.
- Arkansas’s cities, including Bentonville and Rogers, are known for their robust economies, cultural richness, and educational excellence, attracting a diverse population.
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