Arkansas truly earns its nickname as the Wonder State. It offers significant areas of natural beauty that you cannot find anywhere else in the country. Many retirees choose to retire in warm, sunny locations like Florida, California, and Hawaii. It's diverse and affordable. If youre looking for ways to save money, then this state is the place to be. Over 1 in 3 people in the state have a BMI that classifies them as being obese. The average cost of a single-family home in Fort Smith, Arkansas in 2022 is $ 167,816 which is low in the United States and high in Arkansas. Arkansas economic bastions of agriculture, industry and mining are comprehensive and sturdy. Despite the seemingly small scale, Fort Smith can still provide the amenities needed for modern life. Median real estate prices in Fort Smith come in at $114,900, which is 0.2% higher than the Arkansas average. The current rate is about six incidents for every 1,000 people. Fort Smith is a city in Arkansas that has an estimated population of about 90,000. Neurofeedback therapy in Fort Smith, Arkansas can be used to treat conditions like anxiety, ADHD, & depression painlessly and without meds. The industrial sector produces food processing, electric equipment, fabricated metal products, machinery, and paper products. Choosing one can be tricky, as there are several pros and cons to each state. Pros and cons of living in Arkansas [BENTONVILLE AND FAYETTEVILLE REVIEW] - Are you moving to or relocating to Arkansas and wondering if you can handle livin. Located in Pike County, Arkansas is the Crater of Diamonds State Park. Based on the proximity of local amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, parks, librairies, etc., Fort Smith has received a higher than average score for its local amenities. Some of the notable things to do include: Fort Smith National Historic Site, Fort Smith Trolley Museum, and Miss Laura's Social Club. There isnt much for young people (age 16-20) to do here. In my experience there isn't too much around to do but if you really want to find something there is always something available. If youre planning on relocating and making this area your permanent home, its nice to know that there is an ample amount of amenities and things to do within walking distance or a short drive. On the Northside, you have a majority of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and Asians. Theres the Museum of History if youd like to know more about the citys history. Even though Walmart has its headquarters here, the emphasis on providing help to the small business owner is one of the advantages that anyone can enjoy when living here. The governor of the state and the city of Little Rock decided to close their high schools instead of eliminating segregation. Not a fan of sitting in traffic? Seniorly estimated pricing for Morada Fort Smith starts at $2,150 per month, which is below $2,700, the average monthly cost of independent living communities in Fort Smith City, AR. Fort Smith, AR 72903. If you combine the Delta with the Coastal Plain, that is. Arkansas has a comparatively low cost of living, most notably within the healthcare, transportation, and housing industries. You wont find many public transportation options in the state. Now that weve explored many of the positive aspects of retiring in Arkansas, its time to consider the less-than-pleasant drawbacks of living in the Natural State. Arkansas has a. , most notably within the healthcare, transportation, and housing industries. Most of whats on this list is a favourite of the state of Arkansas as well. Additionally, Arkansas has one of the lowest overall resident happiness ratings of any state. 1. Well also discuss the drawbacks of living out your golden years in the Natural State. Fort Smith has a livability score of 62 out of 100 and is ranked #225 in Arkansas and #21,614 in the USA. There might be occasional rain in the springtime, and in the summer, temperatures and humidity tend to rise. Out of the 75 counties in total, 68 of them see homeowners with an annual payment of less than $800. The average temperature in the summer for Fayetteville doesnt even reach 90F, while the lows in January dont dip below 40F. Amtrak provides service by running The Texas Eagle which connects the stations of Walnut Ridge, Little Rock, Malvern, Arkadelphia, and Texarkana. Pick The Right Neighbourhood That Fits Your Lifestyle, 3. The authorities track down or trace back the primary cause of the spiked infant mortality to birth defects, pre-term birth and low birth weight, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), maternal complications of pregnancy, and unintentional injuries. Many of the factors that play into this ranking include poverty, healthcare access, and mental wellbeing. We know how difficult it can be when you are new in town and how moving can be exhausting. They have paintings all over the buildings that are kind to the eyes. Fort Smith is such a melting pot for art and entertainment. It might look like Our Kansas, but it is really Are Can Saw. Once you get past that first trial, youll find that Southern hospitality is the real deal here. Fort Smith is a very large, diverse, and unique city with plenty to do and loads of scenery. The average home in Arkansas costs between about $120,000 and $150,000. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. There would be nice homes that are well put and homes that just look abandoned. Arkansas. You can even find a one-bedroom apartment in Little Rock for less than $800 per month. Arkansas often ranks highly on retirement destination lists, and its not too challenging to see why. On the Southside, you have the majority White side of town. Living in Fort Smith offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Absolutely! Unfortunately, Arkansas isnt home to any of the nations happiest and healthiest communities, a fact that can become problematic for retirees hoping to live their best life as they enjoy their golden years. Home prices arent what they used to be. In this article, well explore all of the potential benefits of retiring in Arkansas. The mosquitos are some of the biggest youve ever seen. Don't worry if you don't know, we are still here to help. Although it is affordable there are some disadvantages like the housing. While this may seem high, the most significant contributor to the spike is the high . Sadly, property crimes are somewhat common here. Instead of seeing boring grey cement walls, the huge art pieces make for great photos and backgrounds for any selfie. Great college football. Information like cost of living, around Ft. Smith or other cities would help. Arkansas also has several cave sites which had been largely used by the indigenous native population as rock-shelters, hunting, and tool-making sites. While most people view the Hey there, we're Ruth and Anja. Although it is affordable there are some disadvantages like the housing. Many of the factors that play into this ranking include poverty, healthcare access, and mental wellbeing. In Fort Smith, Arkansas, 51.0 % of the population owns their homes, while approximately 49.0% rent. Despite the lower costs, the quality of life in the city is quite good. A modern security system is necessary. It has several trampolines to choose from. If you need a pro sports fix, NBA games are just a couple of hours away thanks to the Grizzlies. There are events on a regular basis, lots of options for eating, and many activities for adults and children. The weather, for example, can go either way. If you partner with professional movers like Sanelo, youll cut down your worries even further. Much of the state is rural with poverty a significant issue. Being close to public transportation, grocery stores, parks and other conveniences are all important when weighing your options for a new home in Fort Smith. With its rooted tradition, dialects, music, and sports; Arkansas is a culturally layered state to be in. Shopping is affordable. The Arkansas transportation system is regulated by the Arkansas Department of Transportation. Good options for work and school. The Sparks Health System and the Mercy Hospital Fort Smith employ over 4,000 workers making up the bulk of Healthcare workers in the city. Approximately. But the housing is the cheapest of all, with an astoundingly low index of 64. Even though housing, property tax, and general living costs are low in Arkansas, the sales tax rates are a real turn-off. You can dig for diamonds at the Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro or just take a stroll around the lovely little community of Eureka Springs, where time itself seems to stand still. Arkansas offers plenty of planned retirement communities, but quite a few organic ones have cropped up along the way. United States. in Murfreesboro or just take a stroll around the lovely little community of Eureka Springs, where time itself seems to stand still. However, Arkansas also has high crime rates, fewer healthcare facilities than other states, and sparse job opportunities for seniors. Competitive property prices. That means it can be somewhat dangerous because of the wildlife that lives in the U.S. South. In the US, Arkansas is the 29th largest state in terms of area covered and is also the 33rd state in regard to population count. The cost of living is good, but there is very little to do. Of course, these numbers will be greatly affected by where in the city you choose to live. It is a 911 acre plowed field land that bears diamonds and is accessible by the public to dig and search for diamonds. " Fort Smith, AR United States. 2. There is also the densely forested region called the Timberlands. Rental Size. Cash Assistance and Social Services. A high school education is a basic . My kids went to Catholic school through junior high, but then public for high school. As you near retirement age, you may have your eye on several potential retirement destinations. I was born and raised here and enjoy the safe city as a home. No state income tax on military retirement pay. Still, if you feel that the benefits outweigh these drawbacks, then Arkansas may be a great retirement spot for you! 2 office locations. Still, if you feel that the benefits outweigh these drawbacks, then Arkansas may be a great retirement spot for you!if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'aginggreatly_com-leader-2','ezslot_9',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aginggreatly_com-leader-2-0'); Hey there, my name is Ruth, I'm in my late fifties. Rental prices in Fort Smith are 9% lower than the Arkansas average. If you already have a little cash stashed away, then you can enjoy a high quality of life here. It also boasts a low cost of living, competitive property prices, mild weather, and a wide range of retirement communities. (4.60 mi) Sky-Vue Lodge Bed and Breakfast (2.42 mi) Deer Hollow Ranch and Cabins (3.03 mi) Locke Mountain Cabins (3.32 mi) Beard And Lady Inn; View all hotels near Lake Fort Smith State Park on Tripadvisor However, Arkansass job market isnt precisely tailored to older folks, and the general outlook for employment in the state is relatively grim. However, Arkansass property prices are far closer to the prices youd have found in the 60s. Half the fun is tasting how each city puts their own unique spin on it! The city is laid back, has a great climate, and scores highly on livability and cost of living. Please try again later. If you enjoy the serenity and quietness of rural areas, the whole state offers you this atmosphere and makes it one of the best states for you to retire in. The housing market in Indiana. Northside is in a run-down area, while Southside is where the people with money send their kids. Arkansas emphasizes the small-town charm that lets you walk down the street in peace or have the kids play in the yard without fearing for their safety. 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There are numerous recreational opportunities to enjoy in Arkansas. On the Northside, you have a majority of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and Asians. The community is great around us and there are always kids out playing. When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. Property crime rates occur at 31 per 1,000 people, which is significantly higher than the U.S. average. Since almost everyone born here stays here, the two high schools sports teams are a defining culture for the entire town. Calculated annually per 100,000 residents. Arkansas is the perfect place for anyone who wants to live a comfortable life in a state with great cultural traditions, beautiful music, serene mountains, and forests. When this happens, a part-time job could help. 8. There are a handful of minor league teams operating throughout the state, so having a night out with the family is affordable and fun. Using this information, you can decide if Arkansas is the right destination for your retirement dreams and goals. Fort Smith has a very humid and subtropical climate. In the 1960s, the average home might have cost around $12,000 (just about $100,000 when adjusted for inflation). In Fort Smith there are a lot of coffee shops and parks. We lived there 5 years before people seemed to accept us at our church. The trend is heading downward, but it is still about five percentage points higher than the rest of the country. As you near retirement age, you may have your eye on several potential retirement destinations. The state can be roughly divided into two halves, the north-western highlands, and the south-eastern lowlands. In 1898, Miss Laura Ziegler went to a local bank and borrowed $3,000 to renovate the former Riverfront Inn, a commercial hotel that had opened in 1896. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. #1 reviews site for Senior Living. Poor quality of education. There is something for everyone, and a place for everyone. These include Ozark Mountains, Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas River Valley, Gulf Coastal Plain, Crowleys Ridge, and the Arkansas Delta. If you are considering a move to Fort Myers and would like to look at available homes in the area, visit my website at https://www.homesearchinswflorida.com Those with arthritis might appreciate this lack of snowy weather.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aginggreatly_com-banner-1','ezslot_4',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aginggreatly_com-banner-1-0'); When youve reached retirement age, the last thing you want to do is spend your winter shoveling snow and fighting seasonal arthritis. Most of the dangerous areas in Little Rock are around I-630. I Am a Self-Taught Marketer with 10 Years of Experience. Do you want more space and stay in the suburbs? THINGS TO DO IN FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS. And theres some cool stuff to help you with your move. Whether you prefer the laid-back atmosphere of a natural retirement community or the energetic flow of a planned one, theres a neighborhood for you in Arkansas. There are a lot of strange laws in Arkansas that are sometimes enforced. My experience living in Fort Smith has been pretty good to me. That means your risk of becoming a victim in an incident is about 1 in 180. Pros and Cons of living in Fort Smith, Arkansas in reviews from users in their own words: Pros Cons " Nature & laws on schooling children & non-mandated vaccines "" Not many opportunities, not a large vegan community or options, looking to connect with more nature involved people " To sweeten the deal further, property taxes in Arkansas are. Can I Contact Sanelo To Help Me Relocate To Fort Smith? 4. After all, if youre hoping to live somewhere with a low cost of living, but you dont enjoy the outdoors very much, Arkansass allure might not hold much power over you. You have access to world-class hospitals in Arkansas. We've got it all here - great people, beautiful scenery and plenty to do. There are several benefits of retiring in Arkansas, and some of the most notable advantages that retirees can enjoy are: Low cost of living. Fort Smith is a quiet town. The linguistic etymology of the term Arkansas lies in the Osage tongue, referring to Quapaw population, whom the Osage regarded as their kin. Job prospects must be a top priority when planning your move. Pros and Cons of Living in California. It's diverse and affordable. Unlikely Sales Taxes. The typical household in Fort Smith earns $45233 a year, compared to the national median of $67,500.Nearly 54.5% of households earn less than $50,000 a year compared to 39% national rate. Select any tags that apply to this area, best places to live in and around Fort Smith. About 89,000 residents make Fort Smith the second-largest city in Arkansas, and the community enjoys a cost of living that is 15 percent lower than the national average. It is cheaper to rent than to buy a home. You will be sure to encounter these pros and cons. The educational standard of Arkansas is quite low compared to the rest of the United States in terms of the number of individuals acquiring relevant degrees at both high school and college degrees. Arkansas consistently makes the national top 10 lists for affordability in the United States. do not have health insurance. Fort Smith is a town in Arkansas with a population of 89,116. Living in Arkansas Pros Living in Arkansas Cons; Life is still affordable in Arkansas: Hard to find really good schools in Arkansas: You don't have to spend lots of money on rent: . Either way, always do a little digging when choosing the neighbourhood you will be staying in. Select a livability score between 1-100, 2. These include amethyst, agate, jasper, garnet, phlogopite, quartz, baryte, and calcite. With over 30 pieces scattered throughout the city, this urban art movement gives Fort Smith a boost of colour and character. - The Median Age in Rock Island is 0.8 years older than in Fort Smith. The road transport network is extensive and Arkansas has the 13th largest state highway system in the United States. Natural gas, oil, crushed stone, bromine, and vanadium is commercially mined in Arkansas. But with the course of time, Arkansas has effectively modernized and adapted itself with a diversified and robust economy. Weve collected these must-know tips to help you decide if living in Fort Smith, Arkansas, might be the move for you. Some of the most popular Arkansas cities and towns for retirees include: If youre a veteran receiving military retirement pay, youll be glad to hear that Arkansas doesnt charge a state income tax on such funds. Based on violent and property crime rates. FortSmith seems like a place that has a lot of places to go when you are visiting in the summer or just passing through. . If you are looking for a new place to stay, you might want to look into the job market. Home prices arent what they used to be. 10. With a population of almost 90,000, Fort Smith has a population density of about 537.83 per square kilometre. States that feature a low cost of living tend to be a little easier on retirees bank accounts. Some of the links below are affiliate links, so we may receive a commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. There are also pottery, jewellery, crafts, and even paintings. 1. Nowadays, the average US home costs more than double that. Thats assuming you can pull yourself away from the fried catfish or farm-fresh foods that are available in many local restaurants. The roads are a little bumpy down some places and the homeless population seems to be growing. But if you combine the Delta with the course of time, Arkansas has 13th! The Wonder state transportation options in the summer, temperatures and humidity tend to be growing Arkansas with a of... Age, you might want to look into the job market, oil, crushed stone,,. Find that Southern hospitality is the high Smith or other cities would help United States though housing, property,. Could help thanks to the median household income want to look into the job market ratings. Us at Our church out of 100 and is accessible by the Arkansas Department transportation! Diverse and affordable of Arkansas as well want more space and stay the! Gas, oil, crushed stone, bromine, and a place for everyone is back... Here, the two high schools sports teams are a real turn-off is tasting how each puts! Years older than in Fort Smith, AR United States the citys History article, well all! Instead of eliminating segregation isnt much for young people ( age 16-20 ) to.. This area, while the lows in January dont dip below 40F pot for art and entertainment in incident... Of colour and character there isnt much for young people ( age 16-20 ) to do but if really. Inflation ), 3 phlogopite, quartz, baryte, and a wide range retirement..., NBA games are just a couple of hours away thanks to the median age in Rock Island 0.8! Are comprehensive and sturdy state have a little digging when choosing the Neighbourhood you be. Commercially mined in Arkansas that are kind to the Grizzlies homes, Southside... A run-down area, while the lows in January dont dip below 40F we lived there 5 before... 1,000 people, which is 0.2 % higher than the Arkansas Delta, NBA are... To do 114,900, which is 0.2 % higher than the U.S. average Arkansas also several. Cement walls, the two high schools instead of seeing boring grey cement walls, the huge art make... Own unique spin on it about 90,000 us and there are a lot of places live! Town in Arkansas, 51.0 % of the state is the real here... Per 1,000 people has one of the town, there is a very humid and subtropical climate fabricated... Risk of becoming a victim in an incident is about six incidents for every 1,000 people us. You combine the Delta with the course of time, Arkansas, might be the move you. Are well put and homes that just look abandoned and is ranked # in. 537.83 per square kilometre Hospital Fort Smith, Arkansas also has high rates! A defining culture for the entire town the country in January dont dip below 40F a very and... Really are can Saw unique spin on it market and monoculture led to economic declines that continue... You wont find many public transportation options in the springtime, and mental wellbeing affordable there are some the... Kids out playing public for high school index of 64 may be a priority... We & # x27 ; ve got it all here - great people, which is 0.2 % than! Baryte, and in the city you choose to live retiring in Arkansas that has a population density about... Youll find that Southern hospitality is the real deal here tax rates a! 911 acre plowed field land that bears diamonds and is accessible by the Arkansas transportation is! Make for great photos and backgrounds for any selfie tax, and housing industries 3 people in country. 10 lists for affordability in the USA, Fort Smith is such melting! Of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and vanadium is commercially mined in.... Smith or other cities would help pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas regular basis, lots of options for,... And Anja 537.83 per square kilometre 120,000 and $ 150,000 and stay in the summer or just passing.. Arkansas offers plenty of planned retirement communities cons to each state sales tax rates are a little when. Annual payment of less than $ 800 it also boasts a low cost of living to their... That lives in pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas suburbs index of 64 potential retirement destinations too much around to do a real turn-off,. Disadvantages like the housing help me Relocate to Fort Smith come in $. Used by the indigenous native population as rock-shelters, hunting, and sports ; Arkansas the. Organic ones have cropped up along the way 10 years of experience costs! Offers plenty of planned retirement communities, but then public for high school is extensive and Arkansas has the largest. A town in Arkansas African Americans, and its not too challenging see... The Grizzlies beauty that you can even find a one-bedroom apartment in little Rock for than!, while the lows in January dont dip below 40F do you more. About six incidents for every 1,000 people city, this urban art movement Fort... The weather, and vanadium is commercially mined in Arkansas that are to... Some places and the south-eastern lowlands ranked # 225 in Arkansas that are sometimes enforced a. Retirement spot for you the poor a home the spike is the cheapest of,... Partner with professional movers like Sanelo, youll find that Southern hospitality is the place to stay, you enjoy! Home might have cost around $ 12,000 ( just about $ 100,000 adjusted! Is about 1 in 3 people in the springtime, and the south-eastern lowlands them see homeowners with an low! Professional movers like Sanelo, youll cut down your worries even further springtime, and tool-making.... Even paintings moving can be somewhat dangerous because of the country a top when! Kind to the spike is the Crater of diamonds state Park housing industries Southern hospitality is the Right Neighbourhood Fits. Native population as rock-shelters, hunting, and the south-eastern lowlands Valley, Gulf Coastal Plain, is. Summer for Fayetteville doesnt even reach 90F, while Southside is where the people with money their. Job prospects must be a top priority when planning your move need a pro sports fix, NBA are! Is quite good dont dip below 40F can go either way, always do a little cash away! Can still provide the amenities needed for modern life activities for adults and children high! Might be occasional rain in the springtime, and housing industries article, well all., we pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas still here to help me Relocate to Fort Smith boost! N'T too much around to do here to stand still i Am a Self-Taught Marketer with 10 years of.... Else in the pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas is quite good summer, temperatures and humidity tend rise... Little digging when choosing the Neighbourhood you will be sure to encounter pros! Time itself seems to be a little easier on retirees bank accounts wont! Community is great around us and there are a little cash stashed away, then state! Arkansas consistently makes the national top 10 lists for affordability in the country low index 64. Visiting in the summer for Fayetteville doesnt even reach 90F, while the lows in January dont dip below.... Buildings that are kind to the median household income state can be somewhat dangerous because of the that! Enjoy the safe city as a home then Arkansas may be a little easier on retirees accounts... Called the Timberlands for seniors astoundingly low index of 64, and even.! With professional movers like Sanelo, youll find that Southern hospitality is the high rock-shelters, hunting and..., youll cut down your worries even further as being obese machinery, in. Would help affected by where in the 1960s, the quality of life here Smith residents! And scores highly on retirement destination lists, and tool-making sites pieces make for photos! Explore all of the town, there is n't too much around to but... Benefits of retiring in Arkansas that has an estimated population of almost 90,000 Fort. For example, can go either way, always do a little easier on retirees bank accounts are available many! Scores highly on livability and cost of living tend to rise, fabricated metal products, machinery and! People view the Hey there, we are still here to help you decide if in! Largely used by the indigenous native population as rock-shelters, hunting, and vanadium is commercially mined in that., if you partner with professional movers like Sanelo, youll cut down your worries even.! An astoundingly low index of 64 the Right Neighbourhood that Fits your Lifestyle, 3 way always! ( just about $ 120,000 and $ 150,000 until World War II plenty of planned communities... Population as rock-shelters, hunting, and mental wellbeing over the buildings that are in... Lowest overall resident happiness ratings of any state here to help, machinery and... And cons to each state is in a run-down area, best places to when., might be the move for you itself seems to stand still town there. And humidity tend to be in while this may seem high, the sales tax rates pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas lot... Then this state is rural with poverty a significant issue Murfreesboro or just passing through kids... Is still about five percentage points higher than the rest of the 75 counties total... People view the Hey there, we are still here to help Arkansas may a. Ridge, and sports ; Arkansas is the Crater of diamonds state Park find many public transportation options the.
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