Known as "The Natural State," Arkansas is celebrated for its lush landscapes, low cost of living, and safe communities.
Arkansas' cost of living is about 8% lower than the national average, making the state a haven for budget-conscious families.
However, affordability is but only one piece of the puzzle. Families also need safe neighborhoods, great schools, ample amenities, and activities to entertain the little ones.
So, how about a little lecture on Arkansas's 11 best places for families to live?
Time to explore the family-friendly towns and cities that check all the boxes. These locations stand out for their safety, affordability, relative ease of buying a home, and lifestyle perks.
It's not just Walmart's corporate headquarters; Bentonville is a thriving community that is perfect for families.
Living costs in Bentonville are 5% less than the national average. You pay less for food and housing at 7% and 17% lower than most other areas in the U.S.
Simply put: it's one of the best small towns in Arkansas to raise a family when it comes to educating your young ones.
Top-rated schools such as Haas Hall Bentonville, Evening Star Elementary, and Washington Junior High School contribute to the district's quality rating, which is better than 99.6% of all Arkansas school districts.
Numerous parks and cultural attractions, like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, add to the charm that makes it a magnet for families.
Plus, the crime rate here is lower than both the state and national averages.
Median Household Income: $99,074
Average House Rent: $1,225
Median Home Value: $496,600
Home to the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville combines a youthful energy with family-friendly amenities.
It gets better!
These big-city perks come at a cost of 7% lower than the national average.
Plus, Fayetteville has many excellent schools, including Root Elementary School, Vandergriff Elementary School, and Woodland Junior High School.
Although the crime rate here is higher than the national average, many safe neighborhoods exist. The city is also economically stable, with a strong job market.
Median Household Income: $56,881
Average House Rent: $1,739
Median Home Value: $415,000
Located near Bentonville, Rogers is a delightful suburb with a family-first mindset. It has top-rated schools, low violent crime rates, and plenty of recreational spaces, like Lake Atalanta Park.
If you are new to family or work life, you will be thrilled to know that Rogers is exceptionally great for young professionals.
Whether you're relocating for a job or starting fresh with your family, the moving services here will help make your transition smooth and stress-free.
While you may need an extra watchful eye to guard your properties against theft (the property crime rate is slightly higher than the national average), once settled, the area is generally safe.
Median Household Income: $78,075
Average House Rent: $1,144
Median Home Value: $439,700
Nicknamed the "City of Colleges," Conway is ideal for families who value education.
Moreover, its highly regarded public schools and three colleges give the town a youthful and lively feel.
The low cost of living is a big draw for this city. It is 17% lower than the national average, and when paired with the numerous parks and cultural activities here, Conway is a top pick for families.
Even though crime here is higher than the state and national averages, the situation is under control, with only sporadic incidents occasionally occurring.
Median Household Income: $54,036
Average House Rent: $904
Median Home Value: $247,000
If you have your senior loved ones under your care, there's no better town as welcoming as Hot Springs.
Firstly, the cost of living is pretty affordable, at 10% lower than the national average. Then, its natural beauty and rich history make it more than just a tourist destination.
Hot Springs is one of the best places in Arkansas for retirees and just about anyone looking to start or grow their household.
Families here love the excellent school system and endless recreational activities, including hiking trails, hot springs, and lakes.
Median Household Income: $46,537
Average House Rent: $1,547
Median Home Value: $255,000
Located in northeast Arkansas, Jonesboro is a healthcare hub.
Apart from its low living cost and eased-up housing valuations, Jonesboro shines when it comes to having a diverse community.
Families benefit immensely from affordable housing and access to Arkansas State University.
Meanwhile, the job market even continues to grow steadily and rapidly, with numerous family-friendly parks adding to its appeal.
Median Household Income: $51,124
Average House Rent: $917
Median Home Value: $240,000
As Arkansas' capital, Little Rock offers a mix of urban excitement and suburban calm.
Families here get to enjoy top-rated museums, a strong public school system, and plenty of outdoor activities—a pretty good binding experience for most.
While crime can be an issue in certain neighborhoods, areas like Hillcrest and Chenal Valley are safe and have great family appeal.
Median Household Income: $58,697
Average House Rent: $1,046
Median Home Value: $239,000
Undoubtedly one of the best places for families to live in Arkansas, this town nestled along the Oklahoma border combines small-town charm with natural beauty.
Families enjoy the affordable cost of living (12% lower than the national average), great schools, and a variety of parks and outdoor activities.
Even though the property crime rate is slightly higher than the national average, it’s just lower than the state average.
Median Household Income: $59,911
Average House Rent: $805
Median Home Value: $265,200
Originally a retirement community, Bella Vista has become a family-friendly suburb.
It's an area with many affordable homes and fantastic outdoor amenities like lakes and golf courses.
Then, there's the talk about excellent education! Its public schools are in three school districts: Bentonville, Gravette, and Pea Ridge.
Bella Vista is perfect for families seeking a quiet, active lifestyle.
The crime rate here for both property and violent crimes is way below the national average. In fact, Bella Vista is currently safer than 66% of all U.S. cities.
Median Household Income: $83,989
Average House Rent: $1,884
Median Home Value: $343,500
Ranking high among the best places for families to live in Arkansas is Cave Springs.
This city offers a serene and family-friendly environment and is just a short drive from Bentonville and Rogers.
The schools here are highly rated, and the community prioritizes green spaces. Lake Keith is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.
Known for its safety and small-town charm, it's perfect for families seeking a slower pace while still having access to the amenities of the Northwest Arkansas region.
Median Household Income: $143,393
Average House Rent: $1,225
Median Home Value: $537,000
If, at this point, you're undecided and still asking, 'Is Arkansas a good place to raise a family?' Then, you should consider Centerton.
This city is rapidly growing as a hotspot for families in Northwest Arkansas.
Its excellent schools and low crime rate (significantly lower than the national average) make it attractive for just about the average American family.
While it has a suburban feel, Centerton is only minutes away from Bentonville's bustling downtown, giving residents the best of both worlds.
Median Household Income: $104,464
Average House Rent: $1,213
Median Home Value: $388,600
Arkansas offers diverse, family-friendly towns and cities that combine affordability, safety, and amenities.
Whether you prefer the urban conveniences of Little Rock, the cultural richness of Bentonville, or the small-town feel of Siloam Springs, these best places for families to live in Arkansas will have a place for you.
So, take the time to visit these communities and see which one feels like home; you might find your perfect match in The Natural State.
