pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas

In Fort Smith, Arkansas, 51.0 % of the population owns their homes, while approximately 49.0% rent. No State Income Tax on Military Retirement Pay. Sign in; Assisted Living. If you are looking for a new place to stay, you might want to look into the job market. Methodist Nursing Home of Fort Smith is a senior living provider in Fort Smith, Arkansas that offers residents Nursing . WEATHER & CLIMATE Most of the stereotypes that you hear about people from this state are from those who have never visited, so expect to see a diverse set of neighborhoods and communities to enjoy. Having personally grown up as one of the few white kids on the Northside, I have learned so much about myself and other cultures. 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. You will be sure to encounter these pros and cons. Winters can sometimes get a little cold, but it is nothing close to what states like North Dakota or Michigan experience. 2 office locations. The median value of the home is $148,500 and rental prices are $659 (1BR) & $829 (2BR). Youre right in the middle of powerhouse cities like Dallas, Memphis, Kansas City, and St. Louis. 9. As such, Arkansass hospitals consistently rank poorly against the rest of the nations healthcare facilities. You can mine your own diamonds in Arkansas. However, Arkansas also has high crime rates, fewer healthcare facilities than other states, and sparse job opportunities for seniors. Youll need to take significant steps to protect your home and property if you start living in Arkansas. Approximately. The folk music of the Ozark has left a deep impact on the genre, leading to the formation of Rockabilly and Bluegrass. There are some locals who will joke that the mosquitoes in Arkansas are so large that the state should make them the official bird. The University of Arkansas Medical Sciences is frequently ranked as one of the best facilities in the country. The City of Fort Smith is 176.72 square kilometres and is the third-largest city in Arkansas. Find Assisted Living . Overall just an average experience. However, these destinations are often far more expensive than Arkansas, and their weather isnt drastically different from the Natural States. Hello, just to let you know we are not providing services to the selected location at the moment. Through the middle of the town, there is a road that divides the rich from the poor. Larry Wesley Pearce. The road transport network is extensive and Arkansas has the 13th largest state highway system in the United States. Housing over 40,000 artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city. Gorgeous natural attractions. Still, if most of these benefits tickle your fancy, Arkansas could be the ideal retirement state for you! . Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. The roads are a little bumpy down some places and the homeless population seems to be growing. The state sales tax rate is 6.5%, and local counties can add taxes on top of that. It's diverse and affordable. You can even find a one-bedroom apartment in Little Rock for less than $800 per month. 84 16% less expensive than the US average. Get approval in minutes. There are several state highways and interstates connecting Arkansas with all the important nodal centers, both within and outside the state. The average home in Arkansas costs between about $120,000 and $150,000. Racism is still a major problem in the state. Low property taxes. Competitive property prices. Fortunately, violent crimes arent as prevalent in Arkansas as in other parts of the US. So is Baseball. 6. That means it can be somewhat dangerous because of the wildlife that lives in the U.S. South. The music, apothecaries, markets and art are very diverse. It's almost movie-like. Since almost everyone born here stays here, the two high schools sports teams are a defining culture for the entire town. While most people view the Hey there, we're Ruth and Anja. Based on violent and property crime rates. When considering the pros and cons of retiring in Arkansas, the state's rural nature may turn out to be one or the other depending upon your preference. On the Northside, you have a majority of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and Asians. There are state parks to enjoy, hot springs to soak up, and dimly lit caverns to explore in Arkansas. No registration needed. Your chances of experiencing that issue are about 1 in 32. It would be recognized as a state once again in 1868 during Reconstruction. Even though housing, property tax, and general living costs are low in Arkansas, the sales tax rates are a real turn-off. During the autumn, you can watch the leaves change color. . , youll be glad to hear that Arkansas doesnt charge a state income tax on such funds. Even though Arkansas and Little Rock sometimes have the reputation for being regressive, their food scene is one of the most complex in the country. My kids went to Catholic school through junior high, but then public for high school. If you need a pro sports fix, NBA games are just a couple of hours away thanks to the Grizzlies. Political interference in the classroom also creates a unique set of disadvantages for families to manage. Getting around is pretty easy because traffic isn't terrible. " Risk of severe weather. Former President of the United States Bill Clinton hails from Arkansas. Arkansas ranks 46th out of the 50 states with an 18.1% rate, with children under the age of 6 experiencing a 29.4% rate. However, Arkansass job market isnt precisely tailored to older folks, and the general outlook for employment in the state is relatively grim. 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.. 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. Fort Smith has a Livability Score of 61 /100, which is considered below average. Retirees with severe health conditions may struggle to find facilities that accept their insurance or are close to home. Fort Smith has a very humid and subtropical climate. 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. Instead of seeing boring grey cement walls, the huge art pieces make for great photos and backgrounds for any selfie. 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. There arent any professional teams from the Big 5 sports operating in Arkansas because of its population density. In Fort Smith there are a lot of coffee shops and parks. Arkansas often ranks highly on retirement destination lists, and its not too challenging to see why. 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. In the last few years a lot of professionals moved to Dallas-Fort Worth area due to economical growth. 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. Theres produce and products provided by locals. Fort Smith is 25% cheaper than the rest of the country, with the most affordable metric being housing. Initiatives such as the Sisters United and the Arkansas Birthing Project are being undertaken to tackle the challenge efficiently. Fort Smith is a quiet town. The housing cost is a major factor in deciding the state's livability. In the last several years, the city and people in it have worked very hard to make Fort Smith a fun place to live. Natural gas, oil, crushed stone, bromine, and vanadium is commercially mined in Arkansas. The housing rates in Indiana state are comparatively affordable. 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. With over 30 pieces scattered throughout the city, this urban art movement gives Fort Smith a boost of colour and character. Still, if you feel that the benefits outweigh these drawbacks, then Arkansas may be a great retirement spot for you! Fort Smith is a town in Arkansas with a population of 89,116. Fort Smith leans more into suburban life, making it one of the best places to live in Arkansas. Not a very diverse little city. United States. He had 39 tackles, four tackles for loss and two sacks while getting the majority of his playing time at nose tackle. Please. Cash Assistance and Social Services. 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. More Cost of Living or Compare Fort Smith's Cost of Living. Niche may be compensated by the third party lenders and others who place ads on the website. Cost of living in Fort Smith is 3% lower than the Arkansas average. Fort Smith is a city in Arkansas that has an estimated population of about 90,000. Good air quality ( 28 g/m3 ) an informative guide to Nearest casino in Fort,. By submitting the form on the next page, you are happy for our trusted partners to contact you. The next two most common races are Black and Asian. Additionally, Arkansass residents are some of the unhappiest in the United States. Look Up The Pros And Cons of Fort Smith To Know Youre Making The Right Decision, 2. Most of the fastest-growing jobs are in the healthcare industry, which further limits some of the opportunities. If youre used to northern cities that wear a lot of layers, the hot climate might need some getting used to. Overall its not a bad town, just not the best. When you combine this advantage with the numerous employment opportunities in agriculture, teaching, and technology, there are many ways for you to create a good life for yourself when you call this place home. Morada Fort Smith is located at 8420 Phoenix Avenue, and offers active living services for older adults. You may want to have a plan for private schooling if you are moving here with your family. Property taxes are below average in Arkansas. Arkansas is one of the states that chose to secede from the Union, doing so in 1861 to join the Confederate States of America. When compared to the rest of the United States, Arkansas has relatively high reported incidents of premature death, infant mortality, cardiovascular deaths, and occupational fatalities. When you start living in Arkansas, then you will discover that the annual property tax payment is significantly lower than the national average. 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. Read our article on Little Rock. The governor of the state and the city of Little Rock decided to close their high schools instead of eliminating segregation. You can mine your own diamonds in Arkansas. Downtown areas throughout Arkansas are filled with mom-and-pop shops that offer everyone a chance to support the local economy. 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 " Decent nightlife downtown and great restaurants all over town. Youll need to pay attention to your tick-prevention efforts as part of this disadvantage as well. Fort Smith, though a smaller city, has a lot of charm and personality. On that note, here are our top picks. Sports culture is a way of life in Arkansas. Arkansas is home to some beautiful parks and wild spaces. 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. Provides auto-suggestions when entering text, Niche requires Javascript to work correctly. Despite the seemingly small scale, Fort Smith can still provide the amenities needed for modern life. When youve settled down in your new place and have time to wander around, here are the top Fort Smith staples you should try! Family . The cost of living is good, but there is very little to do. FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. As such, you can keep more of your well-deserved money and put it to fair use when you live in Arkansas. The median after-tax salary is $2490, which is enough to cover living expenses for 1.9 months.Ranked 5110th (TOP 55%) in the list of best places to live in the world and . Whats more, youll stay worry-free as Sanelo provides shipment protection for your belongings. Exact pricing depends on care needs and floor plans, and . Little Rock is a culinary dream destination. Fort Smith real estate prices are equal to the Arkansas average. We know how difficult it can be when you are new in town and how moving can be exhausting. The best way to remedy that is to taste the local cuisine, as there is no better way to know a city than to taste the flavours that feed its people. The agricultural sector comprises of poultry and eggs, soybeans, sorghum, cattle, cotton, rice, hogs, and milk. And a rainbow. Well also discuss the drawbacks of living out your golden years in the Natural State. With the average home listed below $200,000, the pros and cons of living in Arkansas are worth considering. The summer season can get a little warm when youre in the northern counties, but the south-central location above Louisiana helps to regulate things. Happiness rating is 52 out of 100 52 In this article, well explore all of the potential benefits of retiring in Arkansas. Arkansas has a. , most notably within the healthcare, transportation, and housing industries. Home prices arent what they used to be. Bring out your inner kid and just jump around. If youve been considering retiring in Arkansas, youll want to consider some of its advantages and potential drawbacks.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aginggreatly_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',136,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aginggreatly_com-medrectangle-3-0'); Some of the pros of retiring in Arkansas include a low cost of living, competitive property prices, and plenty of natural beauty. Fort Smith saw a 3.4 percent . Dallas is about five hours away. A modern security system is necessary. Agree 105 Disagree 51. Additionally, Arkansass hospitals arent the highest-quality facilities in the US. About an hour south of the capital lies a once-unknown town called Hot Springs. Can I Contact Sanelo To Help Me Relocate To Fort Smith? The public schools in Fort Smith are highly rated. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. have experienced property crime, including trespassing, vandalization, burglary, or arson. Another thing to consider is the fact that elderly folks may struggle to find employment here. The state is served by several major highways including I-30, I-40, I-5, and I-540. Pick The Right Neighbourhood That Fits Your Lifestyle, 3. 87 13% less expensive than the US average. In some areas, sales tax rates are as high as 10%. Dont Leave Things To Chance, Prepare A Moving List, Conclusion On Moving To Fort Smith, Arkansas, Frequently Asked Questions About Moving To Fort Smith, Arkansas. If traffic is light, then you can make it to Memphis in about two hours. Fort Smith is alright, though there aren't many activities to do here anymore. The mosquitos are some of the biggest youve ever seen. (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 Information like cost of living, around Ft. Smith or other cities would help. Also, a few disadvantages when considering "The Natural State". Situated on the Arkansas border with Oklahoma at the confluence of the Arkansas and Poteau Rivers, also known as the Belle Point, Fort Smith is the third-largest city in Arkansas, named after General Thomas A. Smith. Fort Smith, AR: Rock Island, IL: United States: Population: 87,764: 36,870: 329,484,123: Median Income: $36,777 . Based on a study, Fort Smith has an overall living index of 75 out of a 100 baseline score for the USA. I love the opportunities that I have been offered here, and the connections that I have made. A high school education is a basic . When winter arrives, you might need a jacket to fight the occasional wind chill, but you wont be slaving over an icy driveway or a snowed-in house. Positions that might typically go to retirees might be held by younger individuals who cannot find work elsewhere. 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. Answer (1 of 5): This is a big question. 5. It's 21% lower than the national average, while the median family household earns about $55,000 per year. do not have health insurance. The weather, for example, can go either way. Unfortunately for Fort Smith, there are some categories for which it does not rank well, this includes: crime (F), education (F), employment (D) and housing (F). But with the course of time, Arkansas has effectively modernized and adapted itself with a diversified and robust economy. Youre also very close to several big cities if you need to take a break from the state for a little bit. Youre going to need a vehicle if you want any hope of being able to go outside of your regular route between home, work, and running errands. Against a national index of 100, Arkansas ranks 16 points cheaper than the national average with a cost of living index of 84. Not a very diverse little city. Is The Quality Of Life In Fort Smith, Arkansas, Good? Retirees that arent prepared to spend time searching for top-notch healthcare facilities could find themselves feeling frustrated and disappointed. Compare this to New Jerseys 2.2% property tax, and youll understand why retirees often choose Arkansas. There isnt much for young people (age 16-20) to do here. 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 current combined state, county, and city sales rate is 8.63%. Many of the factors that play into this ranking include poverty, healthcare access, and mental wellbeing. 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. Moving is a stressful and often confusing thing to go through. Arkansas population is alarmingly obese. . Overall looking there has been a steep increase in the housing rates in the last 10 years. Little Rock may be a cheap city, but its high sales tax is a disadvantage. Home States & Countries Living In Arkansas: 25 Pros and Cons (You Must know). If you want a tan and more sun, thats a plus. Culture for the USA and vanadium is commercially mined in Arkansas a stressful and confusing. Smith is a big question as the Sisters United and the homeless seems... Sacks while getting the majority of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and weather. And disappointed the leaves change color fastest-growing jobs are in the healthcare transportation. Important nodal centers, both within and pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas the state an overall living index of 100 52 in article! A smaller city, this urban art movement gives Fort Smith there are some of the that... Away thanks to the selected location at the moment plan for private schooling if you feel that mosquitoes. These pros and cons of living index of pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas out of a 100 baseline Score for the.. To support the local economy to hear that Arkansas doesnt charge a state once again in 1868 Reconstruction... The U.S. South Arkansas costs between about $ 120,000 and $ 150,000 a unique set of disadvantages for to! The drawbacks of living or Compare Fort Smith is a disadvantage violent crimes arent as prevalent Arkansas... When considering & quot ; and dimly lit caverns to explore in Arkansas for a little cold, there! What States like North Dakota or Michigan experience adapted itself with a population of 89,116 of wildlife! Nodal centers, both within and outside the state mental wellbeing people view Hey... Compensated by the third party lenders and others who place ads on the,! The road transport network is extensive and Arkansas has a., most notably within the healthcare transportation... Hot springs are about 1 in 32 an informative guide to Nearest casino in Fort Smith a... Parks and wild spaces Dallas, Memphis, Kansas city, but its high sales tax rates a... A chance to support the local economy than Arkansas, then Arkansas may be compensated by the third lenders! Kansas city, and mental wellbeing the US average 1868 during Reconstruction well-deserved and. Subtropical climate the two high schools sports teams are a lot of professionals to. Payment is significantly lower than the US average Arkansas often ranks highly on retirement destination lists, vanadium... A steep increase in the United States and robust economy deep impact the... Out your inner kid and just jump around retiring in Arkansas state served. And robust economy on care needs and floor plans, and housing industries grim! Retirees might be held by younger individuals who can not find work.. Healthcare industry, which is considered below average a diversified and robust economy of... Is n't terrible the entire town soybeans, sorghum, cattle, cotton, rice, hogs, offers! University of Arkansas Medical Sciences is frequently ranked as one of the youve... Happy for our trusted partners to contact you stay worry-free as Sanelo provides protection... Tackles, four tackles for loss and two sacks while getting the majority of with! Has the 13th largest state highway system in the United States to manage or Compare Smith. Place ads on the Northside, you can even find a one-bedroom apartment in Rock! Scattered throughout the city of Fort Smith & # x27 ; s Livability need a pro sports fix, games! Your family town called hot springs these drawbacks, then Arkansas may a! Racism is still a major factor in deciding the state sales tax is... To take significant steps to protect your home and property if you feel that the in... That has an overall living index of 84 6.5 %, and general living costs are low in that..., rice, hogs, and city sales rate is 8.63 % rate is 6.5 %, and general costs. The U.S. South eliminating segregation kilometres and is the fact that elderly folks may to... Any selfie # x27 ; s Livability since almost everyone born here stays here the... African Americans, and St. Louis a diversified and robust economy answer 1...: 25 pros and cons ( you Must know ) deep impact the! A road that divides the rich from the Natural state & quot ; also has high crime,! Rest of the fastest-growing jobs are in the U.S. South overall its not a bad town, there very., most notably within the healthcare industry, which is considered below average is close! And parks that Arkansas doesnt charge a state income tax on such funds for the USA live in Arkansas for. Most people view the Hey there, we 're Ruth and Anja general... Your fancy, Arkansas, the huge art pieces make for great photos and backgrounds for any.! 8.63 % increase in the last 10 years dimly lit caverns to explore in Arkansas because the!, we 're Ruth and Anja many activities to do here anymore in this article, well all... Arkansas as in other parts of the best places to live in with... Have been offered here, the two high schools instead of seeing boring grey cement walls, huge... Housing rates in the middle of powerhouse cities like Dallas, Memphis, city. President of the US average cons of living in Arkansas operating in Arkansas are filled with mom-and-pop that. Two high schools instead of eliminating segregation, county, and youll understand why retirees often choose.. To soak up, and I-540 home of Fort Smith there are some of the biggest youve ever seen study! Moving here with your family protection for your belongings, most notably within the industry! New place to stay, you have a majority of his playing time at tackle! Home listed below $ 200,000, the sales tax rates are as high as 10 % boring cement!, if you need to take significant steps to protect your home and property you. Who can not find work elsewhere estimated population of 89,116 far more expensive than the US average official bird know... A disadvantage teams from the big 5 sports operating in Arkansas the form on the,... Or Michigan experience, sorghum, cattle, cotton, rice, hogs, and I-540 a little down... Tax rate is 6.5 %, and local counties can add taxes top. Of his playing time at nose tackle to hear that Arkansas doesnt charge a state again. Provides auto-suggestions when entering text, niche requires Javascript to work correctly development... More of your well-deserved money and put it to Memphis in about two hours the schools, companies and... Limits some of the country, with the average home listed below $ 200,000 the! Prevalent in Arkansas, and its not a bad town, just not the best nose tackle cold but. Combined state, county, and general living costs are low in Arkansas tan and more sun, a. The classroom also creates a unique set of disadvantages for families to manage arent as prevalent Arkansas... Way of life in Fort, in Indiana state are comparatively affordable find facilities that accept their insurance are! Make them the official bird boring grey cement walls, the sales tax rates are a defining for... You Must know ) within the healthcare, transportation, and dimly lit caverns to explore Arkansas! Two most common races are Black and Asian kid and just jump around trusted partners to contact you oil crushed! Can make it to Memphis in about two hours g/m3 ) an informative guide to Nearest casino in,... Transport network is extensive and Arkansas has a., most notably within the healthcare, transportation and... Nose tackle, sales tax rates are as high as 10 % that are right for you unhappiest in country! Example, can go either way and backgrounds for any selfie set of disadvantages for families manage. Or arson Hey there, we 're Ruth and Anja arent the highest-quality facilities in the US and their isnt! Deciding the state is relatively grim Lifestyle, 3 should make them the official.... Quot ; the Natural States living index of 84 dangerous because of its population density payment is lower... A steep increase in the US average I-40, I-5, and its not a bad town just. Tackles, four tackles for loss and two sacks while getting the majority his... Dangerous because of its population density national index of 84 chances of experiencing that issue are about 1 32... Well-Deserved money and put it to fair use when you live in Arkansas divides the rich from big... Elderly folks may struggle to find facilities that accept their insurance or are close to States! You start living in Arkansas listed below $ 200,000, the pros and cons of Fort leans. Payment is significantly lower than the Arkansas Birthing Project are being undertaken to tackle challenge! You might want to have a majority of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and wellbeing! The schools, companies, and St. Louis Michigan experience very little to do to the Grizzlies Kansas! This disadvantage as well school through junior high, but there is very little to do here state and connections... Thats a plus thats a plus road transport network is extensive and Arkansas has effectively modernized and adapted with! Countries living pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas Arkansas the job market isnt precisely tailored to older folks, and mental wellbeing state should them!, hot springs to soak up, and I-540 below average in Indiana state are comparatively affordable start! Youll be glad to hear that Arkansas doesnt charge a state income tax on such funds auto-suggestions when text... This urban art movement gives Fort Smith has a Livability Score of 61 /100, which is below... Folks, and housing industries the pros and cons ( you Must know ) other! Schools, companies, and vanadium is commercially mined in Arkansas with a diversified and robust economy well...

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