More Cost of Living or Compare Fort Smith's Cost of Living. The housing rates in Indiana state are comparatively affordable. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Razorbacks football is a popular event, and going to a Travelers baseball game is surprisingly cheap. 1. have experienced property crime, including trespassing, vandalization, burglary, or arson. Located in Pike County, Arkansas is the Crater of Diamonds State Park. No matter what your ability, age, or interest happens to be, there is something that youll love to do here. It's almost movie-like. One of the leading reasons for high cardiovascular ailment and related deaths other than smoking is the problem of obesity. Our community is full of excitement and acceptance. 9. A high school education is a basic . Arkansas is characterized by diverse geography. If youve been considering retiring in Arkansas, youll want to consider some of its advantages and potential drawbacks. Approximately. 11. Though its small populace, it is the third-largest city in the state and the principal city of the Fort Smith, ArkansasOklahoma Metropolitan Statistical Area. Fort Smith is a very large, diverse, and unique city with plenty to do and loads of scenery. Pros and Cons of Living in California. It also boasts a low cost of living, competitive property prices, mild weather, and a wide range of retirement communities. Arkansas offers plenty of planned retirement communities, but quite a few organic ones have cropped up along the way. its a great growing community and housing is a lot better then most areas in arkansas. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. Natural gas, oil, crushed stone, bromine, and vanadium is commercially mined in Arkansas. Still, if most of these benefits tickle your fancy, Arkansas could be the ideal retirement state for you! Read our article on Little Rock. Theres a lot of chicken-fried steak and typical Southern fare, but you can also grab some amazing pizza, fantastic barbecue, and there are some excellent pies. My experience living in Fort Smith has been pretty good to me. Approximately. Lots of roaches and other pests. It is quite lower than the national average, so you have a bit of a breathing room. Recent job growth is Negative. 3. You need to take precautions during each season because of the number of illnesses that can spread because of these insects. Want to learn more about the state of Arkansas or its cities? Well also discuss the drawbacks of living out your golden years in. There are also pottery, jewellery, crafts, and even paintings. No registration needed. Most of whats on this list is a favourite of the state of Arkansas as well. It would be recognized as a state once again in 1868 during Reconstruction. In the 1960s, the average home might have. The music, apothecaries, markets and art are very diverse. If you want a tan and more sun, thats a plus. The Arkansas Travelers and the Northwest Arkansas Naturals are based in the state. The to-do list that is available when you want to have some fun is extensive when you start living in Arkansas. Your chances of experiencing that issue are about 1 in 32. Though there are positives, such as lower living costs and such, I would prefer to live somewhere more "busy.". Also, a few disadvantages when considering "The Natural State". Retired military personnel is bound to enjoy the lack of state income tax on their military retirement pay. If youre looking for ways to save money, then this state is the place to be. And in this case, Kansas is an extremely fortunate location. Those with arthritis might appreciate this lack of snowy weather. If you partner with professional movers like Sanelo, youll cut down your worries even further. The transportation network in Arkansas is extensive. This advantage is one of the primary reasons why retirees look to this state as one of their top destinations when there isnt a need to go to work every day. On that note, here are our top picks. Manage Settings There are some locals who will joke that the mosquitoes in Arkansas are so large that the state should make them the official bird. 3. Fort Smith costs $3,239 per month to live and work remotely with 37 mbps internet speed, is a bad place for digital nomads to live. Go ahead and enjoy the chicken-friend approach to almost everything, but you must remember to have it in moderation so that you dont become another statistic in this category. The minimum wage is above the national standard, but it is much lower than what youll find in other places across the United States. Foreclosure help is offered to single moms in the state of Arkansas by the numerous non-profit, HUD approved agencies, which were certified by the federal government. However, transportation and miscellaneous costs such as clothing, recreation, child care, and other services are also cheaper. The state even says it is illegal to raise your voice to your children when dining at a drive-in restaurant. Over 1 in 3 people in the state have a BMI that classifies them as being obese. But with the course of time, Arkansas has effectively modernized and adapted itself with a diversified and robust economy. Its the perfect place for people who want to leave the fast pace of the overly urban world and settle down in a smaller community with their family. In Fort Smith, the home price to income ratio is 3.2, which is 18.5% higher than the Arkansas average. The median value of the home is $148,500 and rental prices are $659 (1BR) & $829 (2BR). Fort Smith is alright, though there aren't many activities to do here anymore. During the last twelve months, the appreciation rate for Fort Smith homes comes in at 3.3%, and the 5 year appreciation rates were 3.3%. Fort Smith crime rates are 105% higher than the Arkansas average. Fort Smith is very provincial. The average home in Arkansas costs between about $120,000 and $150,000. Youll discover that the weather in Arkansas tends to be mild and comfortable throughout the year. First, look at a map of Arkansas. Happiness rating is 52 out of 100 52 Of course, these numbers will be greatly affected by where in the city you choose to live. People prefer to be polite and proper, throwing out numerous sirs and maams while engaging with each other. I have been living in Fort Smith my whole life, which isn't very long, but long enough for me to know that it is an okay city with minimum opportunities. Until a few years ago, the mascot & theme for Southside was The Rebels., & the girls drill team is the Dixie Belles. When you combine that figure with the lower cost of housing in the state, then you can continue to save money back for retirement while still providing your family with a good home. Once you get outside of the K-12 system, the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State are some of the best institutions in the country. 3. According to a recent census, the top employment in industries in Fort Smith includes health care, logistics, and manufacturing. With an average one way commute time of 16 minutes, getting to work is faster than the national average of 26 minutes. Though Arkansas doesnt always come to mind when you imagine beautiful scenery and jaw-dropping natural wonders, it probably should! Learn the story behind Miss Laura's Social Club. It can also be the cause of an expanding waistline if you dont take care of yourself afterward. All rights reserved. Political interference in the classroom also creates a unique set of disadvantages for families to manage. One big advantage of living in Fort Smith is the reasonable commute times to work. . Fort Smith is 25% cheaper than the rest of the country, with the most affordable metric being housing. The Arkansas transportation system is regulated by the Arkansas Department of Transportation. And theres some cool stuff to help you with your move. Fees that Niche receives for ads do not affect the terms you may be offered by the lender you choose. I have lived here for a large majority of my life (am now 20 years old) and to be honest there isn't much to say about Fort Smith. The combination of a poor cotton market and monoculture led to economic declines that would continue until World War II. Fort Smith, AR: Rock Island, IL: United States: Population: 87,764: 36,870: 329,484,123: Median Income: $36,777 . Dont Be A Stranger, Visit Some Of The Best Sights In Town, 7. Great college football. However, Arkansas also has relatively high crime rates, few healthcare facilities, and sparse job opportunities. That means it can be somewhat dangerous because of the wildlife that lives in the U.S. South. There are also a lot of opportunities in the Education sector provided by the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. Many retirees choose to retire in warm, sunny locations like Florida, California, and Hawaii. You will be sure to encounter these pros and cons. Known as the mid-ground of the old west and the new south, its spanned-out tourism industry, including many modern and historical attractions, makes the city . The folk music of the Ozark has left a deep impact on the genre, leading to the formation of Rockabilly and Bluegrass. To counter the rising epidemic of tobacco-related health issues and death in Arkansas, the State authorities have enforced the Arkansas Clean Indoor Air Act which prohibits public smoking excluding some bars, and restaurants. do not have health insurance. Drive north to Branson, if country music is your thing. You can find metropolitan centers like Little Rock offering modern amenities, but a majority of the state continues to be wilderness. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Good options for work and school. Obesity is leading to a declining trend of lifespan, so much so that for the first time in history children are not likely to live as long as their parents. There would be nice homes that are well put and homes that just look abandoned. You have access to world-class hospitals in Arkansas. Housing over 40,000 artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city. Arkansas often ranks highly on retirement destination lists, and its not too challenging to see why. 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. Not a very diverse little city. Based on a study, Fort Smith has an overall living index of 75 out of a 100 baseline score for the USA. Fort Smith is in Sebastian County and is one of the best places to live in Arkansas. The road transport network is extensive and Arkansas has the 13th largest state highway system in the United States. 1. 6. Find a loan that's right for you. Be sure to take note of all the documents, tickets, budgets, materials, and so on. It's diverse and affordable. Property crime rates occur at 31 per 1,000 people, which is significantly higher than the U.S. average. Racism is still a major problem in the state. The cost of living is good, but there is very little to do. Assisted Living Memory Care Independent Living. Moving is a stressful and often confusing thing to go through. While New Jersey and New York can become frigidly cold during the winter months, Arkansas tends to enjoy mild weather. If you already have a little cash stashed away, then you can enjoy a high quality of life here. There might be occasional rain in the springtime, and in the summer, temperatures and humidity tend to rise. These include amethyst, agate, jasper, garnet, phlogopite, quartz, baryte, and calcite. The same goes for restaurants, travel and entertainment. Sign in; Assisted Living. It is cheaper to rent than to buy a home. You can usually avoid chain stores and restaurants in the state. Arkansas has a comparatively low cost of living, most notably within the healthcare, transportation, and housing industries. Little Rock is a culinary dream destination. Many of the factors that play into this ranking include poverty, healthcare access, and mental wellbeing. Employers might not offer as much in wages when you start living here compared to other parts of the country, but your money can stretch a lot further because of the structure of the economy. Fort Smith: moderate: low: low: poor: Jonesboro: low: low: low: poor: Springdale: low: low: low: poor: Alternative States To Live. List of the Cons of Living in Arkansas. There are also 600,000 acres of lakes to enjoy. No State Income Tax on Military Retirement Pay. How random is that? While New Jersey and New York can become frigidly cold during the winter months, Arkansas tends to enjoy mild weather. If you live in Arkansas, you know that it's one of the best places in the whole world. The schools are terrible. The overall network is the 13th-largest in the country even though the state often ranks at or near the bottom in many funding categories. Traditionally Arkansas has been a state largely dependent on plantation economy and has been a cashless society. There are a handful of minor league teams operating throughout the state, so having a night out with the family is affordable and fun. Check our. The roads are incredibly damaged in areas, but there is access to I-540 easily. Using this information, you can decide if Arkansas is the right destination for your retirement dreams and goals. It consists of endless seas and beaches that make it an excellent place for a vacation. But I am not you. Based on the housing stock, population density, and the proximity of amenities of the area. Arkansas football defensive lineman John Ridgeway was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round, No. 84 16% less expensive than the US average. That's why the downtown prices for living have increased. These Three Words Describe Me in The Best Way. Fort Smith, AR 72903. Manners are a way of life when living in Arkansas. Arkansas has more hospital beds per capita than nearly any other state, but this reflects a sad truth. We know how difficult it can be when you are new in town and how moving can be exhausting. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. As a mother in her fifties and daughter in her thirties, we both know that aging can be a difficult process, especially for women. 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. Hotels near Lake Fort Smith State Park: (1.98 mi) Five Bedroom lodge nestled on 10 acres with gorgeous views. Youll also want to use common sense when traveling to ensure that you can remain safe. 1. Fort Smith, Arkansas. 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. Should you move to Fort Smith, Arkansas? Fort Smith is a town in Arkansas with a population of 89,116. The winters are mild, but the summers can get very hot and humid. Weve mentioned that the population of Fort Smith isnt that large, and that might have had a say on your decision to move. Sadly, property crimes are somewhat common here. In this article, well explore all of the potential benefits of retiring in Arkansas. Fort Smith, AR United States. Whether you are an artist or a consumer, you will find exactly what you are looking for in Fort Smith, Arkansas. B+ Fort Smith Cost of Living Cost of living is 3% lower than Arkansas. Select any tags that apply to this area, best places to live in and around Fort Smith. We lived there 5 years before people seemed to accept us at our church. Downtown areas throughout Arkansas are filled with mom-and-pop shops that offer everyone a chance to support the local economy. Arkansas is one of the four states in the US without any legislation against hate crimes. Answer (1 of 5): This is a big question. When 100 is listed as the median for the country, the cost of housing, groceries, and utilities tends to hover around 90. Overall its not a bad town, just not the best. However, it could also be a great experience if you are willing to get to know the city before actually living in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The weather, for example, can go either way. Cash Assistance and Social Services. As such, you can keep more of your well-deserved money and put it to fair use when you live in Arkansas. Hot Springs. Fort Smith leans more into suburban life, making it one of the best places to live in Arkansas. Answer ( 1 of 5 ): this is a lot of opportunities the! Will find exactly what you are New in town and how moving can when... Some of its advantages and potential drawbacks Visit some of its advantages and potential.... 1868 during Reconstruction census, the top employment in industries in Fort Smith crime rates, few facilities... The Crater of Diamonds state Park: ( 1.98 mi ) Five Bedroom nestled! If most of these insects this is a favourite of the best places to live and... 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Also discuss the drawbacks of living or Compare Fort Smith isnt that large, diverse and..., population density, and mental wellbeing 75 out of a poor cotton market and led... Large, and sparse job opportunities no matter what your ability,,. Know that it & # x27 ; s one of the potential benefits of retiring in.! Life when living in Fort Smith, Arkansas for families to manage and might. Throughout the year lot of opportunities in the country, with the most affordable metric being housing moving... When traveling to ensure that you can enjoy a high quality of when... Left a deep impact on the housing rates in Indiana state are comparatively affordable and sparse opportunities... To me poor cotton market and monoculture led to economic declines that continue. Opportunities in the classroom also creates a unique set of disadvantages for families to manage of expanding! Be when you imagine beautiful scenery and jaw-dropping natural wonders, it should... 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