6 Charming Arkansas Communities To Retire Around Little Rock

Arkansas is one of the smallest states west of the Mississippi River. Despite its small size, it is rich in history. From the Indigenous Quapaw tribe to the early French explorers, Arkansas has plenty to offer retirees. The state's diverse landscape, which includes the Ozark and Ouachita mountains, attracts visitors and provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Little Rock, the state capital, is settled among the eastern foothills of the Ouachita Mountains and provides big city amenities. Retirees looking for great places to retire less than a two-hour drive from Little Rock should look no further than these six charming communities.

Forrest City

Located in Eastern Arkansas, Forest City is fondly known as the “Jewel of the Delta.” Recreation and historical sites are one benefit that adds to the small town's charm. With a population of 12,490 residents, Forrest City is about 94 miles from Little Rock. Residents enjoy the feeling and amenities of a small town with access to the big city. The median home value in Forrest City is $87,800, which is essential for the conscientious budgeter interested in real estate.

A day at the St. Francis County Museum and nearby Village Creek State Park are great ways to enjoy the benefits of retiring in Forrest City. The St. Francis County Museum provides a glimpse into the history of St. Francis County. Patrons can view exhibits on architecture, business, military history, education, and more. Village Creek State Park once linked Memphis, Tennessee, to Little Rock. Today, it provides almost 7,000 acres for natural outdoor exploration and recreation, including hiking, a golf driving range, and tennis and basketball courts.

Healthcare options are another reason to consider Forrest City for your retirement spot. Forrest City Medical Center offers a variety of specialties, including breast health, pain management, wound care, and nutritional services.

Helena

Helena is a beautiful city near the Mississippi River and about a two-hour drive from Little Rock. In 1811, it was a major port for steamboats traveling along the river, and it became the location of a bustling music scene, including the blues. Retirees will enjoy this city's welcoming nature and the low population of 8,670 residents.

Helena also boasts affordable housing with a median home value of $72,300. Several attractions will keep any retiree busy as they explore the Delta Cultural Center, Freedom Park, and the 1896 Queen Anne Pillow-Thompson House. Helena has it all if you want a quiet retirement place with plenty of things to do.

Pine Bluff

Located 45 miles south of Little Rock, Pine Bluff is an ideal retirement location for health-conscious and outdoor-loving retirees. The city is home to 39,123 residents and boasts affordable housing with median home values around $86,400. Pine Bluff hosts several parks where residents can enjoy fishing, picnicking and an 18-hole golf course. Lake Saracen, an excellent location for beach lovers, has over one and a half miles of walking trails and several beaches.

The Jefferson Regional Medical System is a great place to support retirees' health care with several healthcare clinics, urgent care centers, imaging service centers, and many more.

Hope

Hope is a place that will surely delight the retiree's heart. With a population of 8,558, the city is a little over one and a half hours from Little Rock. Located in southwestern Arkansas, the town provides several attractions, including the Hope Watermelon Festival, Hope Country Club, and the President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace Home. The Watermelon Festival is a great opportunity to get out and mingle with the town's residents. Arts and craft lovers and foodies will also enjoy the festival's many delightful dishes and artistic opportunities.

The Hope Country Club has 6,035 yards of golf and an 18-hole course for those interested in golfing. Hope is also the home of the 42nd President, which is sure to delight history buffs. With free admission, residents will relish all the historical site has to offer.

West Memphis

West Memphis is an affordable city about two hours east of Little Rock. The median home value is around $119,100, and the median gross rent is around $850 per month. With a housing market that is easy on the pockets, retirees can enjoy the many attractions in West Memphis, such as the Big River Trail, Southland Casino Hotel, and Explore Bike Share.

Located adjacent to the Mississippi River, the Big River Trail encompasses a 7-mile loop with paved trails for hikers and bikers. Retirees looking to play their luck at gaming will find the Southland Casino Hotel a delight with 2,300 slot machines, 50 live table games, and plenty of live entertainment. Those interested in outdoor biking can use the Explore Bike Share and ride around the city by renting a bike on-demand from one of many stations. West Memphis is a retiree's playground on a sensible budget.

Camden

Camden is a city for history-loving retirees. Located about 100 miles from Little Rock, it has several historical sites and affordable housing. With a population of 10,165 residents, the city provides many opportunities to explore Civil War history. The McCollum-Chidester House, located on West Washington Street, features original furnishings during the Red River Campaign of the Civil War. This house, which once housed Generals from both sides of the war, still has the original bullet holes and cannon fire damage.

Another attraction that brings history to life is the Camden Visitors Center and Museum. The museum is in a restored 1913 train depot and contains Civil War memorabilia, pottery, and local history, including Grapette soft drinks. Retirees interested in local historical landmarks can visit the Poison Springs Battleground State Park. The park, part of the Union Army’s Red River Campaign, has outdoor interpretive exhibits and picnic sites.

Retirees will also enjoy the low cost of living, with median home values around $108,800 and median gross rent around $700. With low housing costs and plenty of historical things to do, Camden is a classic jewel in Arkansas.

Retirement is a stepping stone on the pathway of life. Retirees can find peace and comfort knowing that Arkansas offers many options for those looking to settle down in areas of natural beauty and affordable living. If you are looking for a place to call home during retirement, then Forrest City, Helena, Pine Bluff, Hope, West Memphis, and Camden are great places to explore and consider.