Article Overview: Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas, Moving to Arkansas
Arkansas. The word conjures visions of Ozark trails, steaming hot springs, and maybe even a catfish fry. But for those considering calling this “Natural State” home, the picture’s more nuanced. I’m John, a lifelong resident that’s navigated the peaks and valleys of life in Arkansas, and I’m here to dish the straight dope.
Yes, affordability’s a siren song, with houses practically begging for a mortgage and nature’s playground just a hike away. But schools whisper tales of uneven opportunities, and job markets can be fickle, sometimes drier than a July creek bed. Healthcare? It’s a patchwork quilt, demanding resourcefulness and a good doctor on speed dial.
So, Arkansas: Eden or enigma? Don’t settle for glossy brochures or folksy stereotypes. This honest guide unveils the pros, cons, and the gritty reality of everyday life in Arkansas.
Dive in, buckle up, and let’s get into the Natural State warts and all, from bustling cities to sleepy hollows.
Living in Arkansas
Table of Contents: Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
Table of Contents: Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
- Living in Arkansas
- Pros of Living in Arkansas
- Cons of Living in Arkansas
- FAQ – Living in Arkansas
- Is Arkansas a good place to live?
- What is Arkansas known for?
- Is Arkansas a good place to retire?
- Map of Arkansas
- Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
- Compare the Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
- Pin the Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
Note: As long time readers of this website will know, the fun lives in the comments. We pride ourselves on creating honest lists with no ulterior motive in mind (no fluff, no pitches, no BS). Don’t forget to take a look below to see what other locals are saying too! We update this post regularly based on feedback received to keep things as helpful as possible. Cheers!
Pros of Living in Arkansas
1. Affordable Living
One of the biggest advantages of living in Arkansas is the low cost of living. In fact, Arkansas boasts the 7th lowest cost of living in the United States.
Housing? Forget the sky-high prices of coastal cities. In Arkansas, you can snag a beautiful house with a yard for the price of a shoebox apartment elsewhere. It’s not uncommon to find spacious three-bedrooms for under $200,000!
Groceries? I like to joke that inflation hit everywhere but Arkansas. Fresh produce, meats, and pantry staples are all noticeably cheaper here.
Utilities? Keep those winter heating bills in check! Arkansas enjoys mild winters and hot summers, meaning less strain on your HVAC system.
But, it’s not just about the numbers. This low cost of living translates to a certain quality of life. It means less financial stress, more freedom to pursue your passions, and the ability to truly enjoy the simple things.
2. Outdoor Recreation Galore
Arkansas is a nature lover’s paradise. With mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and caves, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Hikers can explore over 200 miles of trails, mountain bikers can shred on 300 miles of singletrack, and paddlers can float down the Buffalo River or kayak through the cypress swamps of the Delta. And for those who like their water a little faster, there’s always the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Little Red River.
But it’s not just about the big-ticket activities. Living in Arkansas, the simple things are just as magical. Imagine casting a line into a pristine lake, camping under a sky ablaze with stars, or picnicking in a meadow carpeted with wildflowers. These are the moments that make you feel truly alive, and they’re all within reach in Arkansas.
3. Natural Beauty
Let me tell you about Arkansas through the eyes of someone who’s called these Ozarks home for decades. A lot of folks incorrectly assume that Arkansas is flat, it isn’t. We’re talking mountains, lakes, rivers, and canyons.
It’s truly magic here – there’s nothing like a lazy day on the Buffalo National River paddling through a ribbon of wild beauty, cliffs guarding hidden waterfalls as the current whispers secrets only the Ozarks know.
I’ve spent countless sunrises atop Petit Jean, gazing across a vast tapestry of shimmering lakes and valleys, feeling the worries of the world melt like morning mist.
Then there’s the magic below ground. Ever spelunked through Blanchard Springs Caverns? It’s like stepping into another world, a wonderland of crystal-clear pools reflecting the otherworldly beauty of stalactites hanging like chandeliers. I’ve explored hidden chambers adorned with sparkling formations, each whisper of dripping water echoing through the silent majesty.
4. Central Location
Whether you’re a road trip warrior or a weekend getaway enthusiast, Arkansas’s central location puts the whole nation within reach. Hit the gas and you’re in Memphis in under 3 hours, Nashville in 4, and St. Louis in 5. Feeling fancy? Dallas and New Orleans are just a short plane hop away.
But Arkansas isn’t just a jumping-off point. Within its own borders, you’ll find a smorgasbord of landscapes, from the rugged peaks of the Ozarks to the serene delta flatlands. Explore crystal-clear rivers, hike to breathtaking vistas, and kayak through ancient cypress swamps. All within a day’s drive!
5. Low Income Tax
If you’re looking to lighten your income tax burden then moving to Arkansas might be the right move for you. This one is simple. Arkansas income tax rates range from just 2% to 4.9%.
That’s some of the lowest in the entire nation. While it’s not as sweet as some states like Texas, Wyoming, & Washington that don’t have an income tax at all, it’s not too far off.
6. Low Property Tax
If the low income taxes weren’t enough, try this one. Arkansas has the 11th lowest property taxes in the nation at just .62%. That’s a pretty sweet combo for savings.
You’re probably wondering what’s the catch? Well that sounds like something for the cons of living in Arkansas, coming up next.
Cons of Living in Arkansas
1. Lack of Education
There’s just no way to sugarcoat the fact that Arkansas is the 4th least educated state in America.
Okay, let’s turn up the spotlight on the stark reality of education in Arkansas. Hold onto your hat, because the statistics aren’t pretty: Arkansas sits at the bottom of the educational pile, clinging to the dubious title of the 4th least educated state in the entire U.S. That’s not just a ranking, it’s a red flag waving furiously in the wind.
Imagine classrooms overflowing with students burdened by poverty, their potential overshadowed by a lack of resources. Think standardized test scores hovering near the basement floor, with ACT averages leaving the national average in the dust. This isn’t a one-off hiccup, it’s a systemic struggle, fueled by limited funding and an uneven playing field.
And it’s not just about numbers. These statistics translate into lost dreams, unfulfilled potential, and a future dimmed by educational disadvantages. The disparities can feel like insurmountable walls, trapping kids within cycles of poverty and limited opportunities.
While initiatives like the Arkansas LEARNS Act offer rays of hope, the gaps remain vast. Progress feels glacial compared to the mountain of challenges that stand before the state’s education system. We need to be frank: acknowledging the dismal reality isn’t pessimism, it’s a necessary first step towards meaningful change.
2. High Poverty Rates
Another hard hitting con of living in Arkansas is the effect of poverty. Arkansas is the 8th most impoverished state in America.
I’ve spent enough time in Arkansas to know poverty isn’t just a figure you hear on the news. It’s the worn faces lined with worry at the local diner, the kids sharing textbooks because families can’t afford new ones, the hollow echoes in houses with empty cabinets.
Poverty isn’t just about finances; it’s about a constant uphill battle. It’s the choice between buying groceries or filling your prescription, the school lunch that barely touches the sides of a hungry stomach, the future that feels like a dead end before it even starts.
3. Our Healthcare System Needs Help
Living in Arkansas for years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the struggles of our healthcare system. In our rural communities, where I’ve spent much of my time, the scarcity of medical facilities isn’t just a statistic; it’s a daily reality.
The state faces a critical shortage of healthcare professionals, with only about 80 primary care physicians per 100,000 people, far below the national average. This shortage is acutely felt in rural areas, where approximately 44% of the state’s population lives.
Chronic conditions are rampant here. It seems like diabetes and heart disease touch almost every family. I’ve seen friends and neighbors grappling with these illnesses, burdened not just by their health but by the struggle to manage them with such limited local resources.
The economic aspect hits hard too. With a substantial portion of our population living in poverty, many can’t afford the healthcare they need. This reality hit me hard when a close friend, among the 8% uninsured in our state, had to forego essential treatment due to cost.
Mental health support is another critical gap. It’s a topic close to my heart, as I’ve seen people close to me suffer without access to the care they need. The impact of the pandemic on our already strained system has been like pouring salt into an open wound. Our hospitals have been overwhelmed, and healthcare workers are stretched thin.
4. High Sales Tax
Arkansas has the 3rd highest combined state and local sales tax in America. And I can say from first hand experiencec, living in Arkansas, the high sales tax is a tangible pinch on every purchase.
Here, the state sales tax rate is 6.5%, but with local taxes, it can climb to over 11% in some areas. This hits especially hard when you’re budgeting for essentials. Grocery shopping, clothes for the kids, a night out – it all adds up faster than you’d think.
For a state with significant poverty, this regressive tax structure feels like an extra hurdle for those of us already stretching every dollar. It’s a constant, subtle drain that you feel with each transaction, making the cost of living feel higher than expected.
5. Public Safety is Lacking
Now I’m not saying life in Arkansas is downright dangerous. It isn’t. Things here are generally safe but there are threats to public safety that shouldn’t be ignored.
Our state’s crime rate is unsettlingly high. For instance, Arkansas has one of the highest violent crime rates in the country, with figures around 550 incidents per 100,000 people, compared to the national average of about 400. This stark reality hits home when you hear about or witness incidents of violence and theft more frequently than you’d expect.
Property crime is another significant issue, with rates hovering around 3,000 incidents per 100,000 people, much higher than the national average. Living here, it means being vigilant about securing your home and belongings.
6. Limited Job Potential
Moving to Arkansas, the job market can feel limiting, especially in specialized or high-tech fields. In our smaller towns and rural areas, job opportunities are often centered around agriculture or basic service industries, which can be limiting for those seeking diverse career paths.
I’ve seen many friends and family members, particularly those with specialized skills or ambitions in high-tech fields, leave the state for cities with greener pastures. This brain drain is tangible in our communities.
Despite our hard work and dedication, the scope for professional growth and higher income levels seems narrow compared to larger urban areas, making the job market here a challenging landscape to navigate.
7. Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies in Arkansas are a relentless challenge that I’ve experienced personally. In fact, Arkansas is the 7th worst state for seasonal allergies.
Given the state’s diverse flora, the pollen season can be particularly intense and they seem to be getting worse each year. Spring and fall are the toughest times; the air is thick with pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. I’ve spent countless days with itchy eyes, a runny nose, and constant sneezing, which is a common plight among friends and family too.
Over-the-counter allergy medications are a staple in most households, and watching the pollen count becomes as routine as checking the weather. These seasonal allergies, while not unique to life in Arkansas, are definitely more pronounced here, making certain times of the year particularly uncomfortable for those of us sensitive to pollen.
8. Low Wages
As of October, the latest available data shows Arkansas with a median household income of $53,980, while the national median is $63,548. This income disparity translates to real-life struggles for many Arkansans, impacting affordability of housing, transportation, and basic necessities.
These figures translate into real-life financial struggles, such as difficulty affording quality housing, healthcare, and education, and less disposable income for savings or leisure activities. The impact of these lower income levels is a pervasive aspect of life in Arkansas, influencing both day-to-day living and long-term financial planning.
9. Tornado Alley
Life in Arkansas means getting used to daily life (during the season) in Tornado Alley. Statistically, Arkansas experiences an average of around 40 tornadoes per year, a number that puts into perspective the constant vigilance we live with, especially during peak tornado seasons in spring and fall.
The dangers of these severe weather events are not just theoretical. Many of us have experienced or know someone who has experienced the terror and destruction a tornado can bring. If you’re thinking of moving to Arkansas, it’s essential emergency plans in place, and weather alerts are a part of daily life during certain times of the year.
The aftermath of these tornadoes can be devastating, with homes and communities sometimes taking years to recover. Living in Tornado Alley means always being prepared for the unexpected and respecting the power of nature in its most violent form.
FAQ – Living in Arkansas
Is Arkansas a good place to live?
Is Arkansas a good place to live?
Arkansas is ideal for those who cherish natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a slower pace of life. Nature enthusiasts thrive here, with abundant hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities in the Ozarks and Ouachitas. It’s also attractive for retirees or families seeking a low cost of living and a close-knit community atmosphere. Entrepreneurs in sectors like agriculture or small businesses may find unique opportunities. For anyone valuing a simpler, quieter lifestyle away from the hustle of big cities, Arkansas can be a perfect fit.
What is Arkansas known for?
What is Arkansas known for?
Arkansas is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, lush forests, and the Mississippi River. It’s also famous for its hot springs, rich history, and as the birthplace of former President Bill Clinton. The state’s nickname, “The Natural State,” reflects its scenic beauty.
Is Arkansas a good place to retire?
Is Arkansas a good place to retire?
Arkansas is ideal for retirees seeking a lower cost of living, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. Its mild climate, ample outdoor activities, and numerous health facilities, combined with a strong sense of community and slower pace, make it an attractive choice for those looking to enjoy their golden years.
Map of Arkansas
Summary of the Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
- Affordable Living
- Outdoor Recreation Galore
- Natural Beauty
- Central Location
- Low Income Tax
- Low Property Tax
- Lack of Education
- High Poverty Rates
- Our Healthcare System Needs Help
- High Sales Tax
- Public Safety is Lacking
- Limited Job Potential
- Seasonal Allergies
- Low Wages
- Tornado Alley
Compare the Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Affordable Living (low housing, groceries, & taxes) | Lack of Education (lower test scores & limited resources) |
Outdoor Recreation Galore (hiking, biking, fishing, etc.) | High Poverty Rates (economic challenges & community impact) |
Natural Beauty (stunning landscapes & diverse ecosystems) | Healthcare Concerns (limited access to specialists & care) |
Central Location (easy access to major cities) | High Sales Tax (offsets low income & property taxes) |
Low Income Tax | Public Safety Issues (higher crime rates require vigilance) |
Low Property Tax | Limited Job Potential (fewer options in certain industries) |
Seasonal Allergies | |
Lower Wages | |
Tornado Risk (manageable) |
Pin the Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
Helpful Related Articles
Living in Indiana: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Indiana
Living in Louisiana: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Louisiana
Living in Mississippi: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Mississippi
Living in Oklahoma: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Oklahoma
Living in Illinois: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Illinois
Living in Texas: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Texas
Living in Tennessee: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Tennessee
Living in Alabama: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Alabama
Living in Kentucky: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Kentucky
Living in Georgia: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Georgia
The Old Ranger says
I have a limited view of Arkansas, but I do know there are some areas in this state I would not live. I am retired and I live in a gated community in central Arkansas. My wife and I have been here almost 10 years, and we would live no place else. We moved here after living in several states over the years, mainly due to jobs. Arkansas is a beautiful states, and most of the people we’ve met who grew up here are very good people. Our location is populated with people who came here from other states as well, and we all love it here. Our kids come to visit and at first, they were skeptical about us living here. Now they are also making plans to move here in the future. Maybe the schools aren’t so good, but our “town of 18000 people” all have degrees, many of us with a Masters or PhDs. We don’t work (except maybe from home) in jobs that are located out of state. One friend said “we made our living elsewhere, but we moved here to enjoy life”. I am now almost 82 and I will die here (hopefully not too soon though). I don’t have any regrets moving here, in fact, I’ve not been this happy where I live my entire life. Yes, Arkansas has problems…. watching the tv news from the LR stations point out big problems, and a lot of those problems do come from the educational failures of the public school system, but a lot of parents have failed in their responsibilities as well….. but this is true all over the US and the world. I’ve also thought if people stepped forward to help improve things without expecting to be paid, we could solve a lot of these problems. Life is meant to be enjoyed, but it also means being there to help others. I love living in Arkansas !!!!
Gail says
Thank you for providing so many elements for considering relocation to Arkansas in such a succinct manner. You saved me a lot of research time.