9 Best Places to Live in Arkansas in 2024
From the Ozark Mountains, the dense forestland of Arkansas timberlands, to the Arkansas Delta, the terrains around this American state make living here worth it. The rich cultural heritage of this area has been well-preserved in its museums, historic districts, antique shops, festivals, and events.
In 2024, parts of Arkansas will be thrown into darkness due to the appearance of the solar eclipse. Residents and tourists from different corners of the world will be part of this extraordinary event. Join millions in this event by relocating to any of the quaint towns here.
Mountain Home
Seated within the Ozark Mountains in the center of the twin lakes area (specifically the Norfork and Bull Shoals Lakes) is the beautiful town of Mountain Home. This town was one of the state’s first water resorts and retirement regions.
Mountain Home is approximately 50 miles from Harrison and approximately 122 miles from Fayetteville. It is a perfect town for retirees, new couples, or anyone looking to start a quiet life away from the busy cities. Canoeing is a favorite pastime for residents here, alongside camping, hiking, warm-water fishing, shopping, and fine dining, which can be done in White River. Other great local activities can be found at Cooper Park, Driftwood Lanes, and Mountain Home Mercantile. This town's median listing home price is $249.9K; however, this price downtrends year-over-year.
Mountain View
Popularly known for the preservation of folkways and traditional music, Mountain View is a small town located in the Ozarks. This town has been popularly nicknamed the “Folk Music Capital of the World.” Music lovers will be stepping into a paradise. The average price for homes in this town is $272K, with an average rent of around $600.
Mountain View is surrounded by different recreational hobbies to help residents relax and unwind without having to move far. From guided tours at Blanchard Springs Caverns (13 miles north of Mountain View), a cave owned by the United States Forest Service, to relaxing at the Washington Street Park. Visit Stone County Museum to learn about the town’s history, and check out Arkansas Craft Gallery for gift items.
When it comes to weekend entertainment, Mountain View is the perfect town. Be part of the numerous music festivals organized all year round, from the Mountain View Bluegrass Festival held in March and November to the Mountains Music & Motorcycles Festival held in August.
Paris
This small town should not be confused with the city of a similar name in Europe. Paris is situated at the base of the Mount Magazine. This beautiful town has a population of less than 4,000 people and is known for its Southern Hospitality, savory food, and unique shopping. The average median price for homes in Paris is $182.7K.
In contrast to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, this city in Arkansas has its own Eiffel Tower Park, where there is a Love Lock Fence, always bursting with people taking pictures and lovers locking padlocks.
To relax, spend time at Mount Magazine State Park. The park offers fun activities all season round, from hiking to camping. Other attractions in this quaint town include the Arkansas Wine Museum, Cove Lake Recreation Area, and the Logan County "Old Jail" Museum.
Heber Springs
First called Sugar Loaf in 1882 after the Sugar Loaf Springs company owned by Max Frauenthal, it was later renamed Heber Springs in honor of Dr. Heber Jones, an advocate of the healing power of the seven springs. The median home price at Heber Springs is $289K.
Heber Springs, first founded as a Health Resort, has evolved to become a gateway to Greers Ferry Lake and the Little Red River. The community members share a tight and closely knitted bond. Residents can interact at the Heber Springs Community Center, where they get to participate in racquetball courts, indoor basketball, and lots more.
Downtown Heber Springs is worth exploring, from quaint boutiques and gift galleries to local galleries with amazing artworks from local and regional artists.
Siloam Springs
Named by Smithsonian.com as one of the “Best 20 Small Towns in America” in 2012, Siloam Springs is worth staying in 2024. It shares a border with West Siloam Springs, Oklahoma. It is also home to the John Brown University. It has a median home price of $284K.
This university town hosts several events that bring in people from different regions around the state, from the Dogwood Festival in April to the Siloam Springs Center for the Arts all year round. The Downtown area is great for history buffs, with the oldest standing building being the Crown Hotel, built in 1881. The area is also lined with numerous shops, from boutiques to antique shops. Another prominent attraction in this town is the Siloam Springs Kayak Park.
Fairfield Bay
Welcome to Fairfield Bay, a small town on the shores of Greers Ferry Lake. The town's residents have access to modern amenities, a beautiful view of the Ozark mountains, and a clear lake, making every day here a vacation. The average home price in Fairfield Bay is $179K, with an uptrend of 8.6%.
Locals like spending time scuba diving, swimming, and fishing at the Fairfield Bay Marina, located on one of the cleanest lakes in the state.
In the heart of the Ozarks Mountain, this town is a hiker’s paradise. It is home to several miles of hiking trails; from Woodhaven Trail to Chamber Trail. Spend time exploring and discovering hidden gems on these hikes. The community is family-oriented, and this is represented by several recreational parks.
Hot Springs
Established as a Resort City and located in the Ouachita Mountains is the serene city of Hot Springs named after the many natural hot springs area. With a population of less than 40,000, residents get to enjoy the natural resources and amenities stress-free. At Hot Springs, the average price of homes is $347.5K.
Hot Springs has a tight-knit and family-oriented community. The town is home to the Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo, where every member of the family gets to play and take pictures with their favorite animal. Another thing to look out for here is Bathhouse Row, which lies within the Hot Springs National Park. While at the park, you can climb up the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.
Van Buren
Have you been looking to live in a town filled with unique gifts and Ozark crafts? Search no further! Van Buren is a small town in Crawford County that has grown to become a shopping mecca for unique objects, locally crafted Ozark artwork, antiques, and extraordinary home decor. The median home listing price here is $220K.
The educational system in this town is excellent, having one of the largest school districts in the county. Van Buren has a picturesque historic Main Street that never gets old, no matter how many times you walk around it. King Opera House is a historic landmark and an outstanding performance hall that entertains residents and visitors.
Calico Rock
Named after a set of rocks that were said to resemble the textile called Calico. Calico Rock is a small town located on the White River in Izard County. With a population of less than 2000, this area is a great attraction for retirees and people looking to start off a peaceful and quiet life by the riverside. In Calico Rock, the average home price is $199,900.
Historic Main Streets of Calico Rock is a beautiful sight, lined by brick and stone buildings, antique shops, and museums. Spend time at the Calico Museum to learn about the town's past through displayed artwork. You can also see the work of local artists in the museum. Go sightseeing at the scenic City Rock Bluff as well.
Hidden between the busy cities in Arkansas are charming small towns that offer residents the life of their dreams. The towns are a complete blend of history and art, a serene environment, outdoor adventure, and modern amenities.
This is a compilation of some small towns in Arkansas to get you started. Take a guided tour and make the right choice for you and your family.
