Bragging Rights
Whether you settle in North Central Arkansas, the Upper or Lower Deltas, in Northwest or Southwest Arkansas, or within the Central hub of the state, Arkansas is an incredible place to live. Some residents are enchanted by the stunning scenery, others enjoy the four distinct seasons and still others are fond of the convenience the state provides. Whatever the reason, it's clear that a love of Arkansas runs deep in the hearts of those who call it home.
1. The Natural Beauty
Arkansas scenery can’t be beat. From high atop the Ozarks and the Ouachitas, from within the vastness of the fields and the forests, or from a more metropolitan perspective at the state’s center — it’s obvious why Arkansas is called The Natural State. The state boasts 52 state parks, seven national parks and many national wildlife areas. Plus, with four distinct seasons, the scenery awes Arkansans year-round. Spring paints the state with vibrant blooms, while autumn sets the forests ablaze with spectacular color. Winter is usually mild with an occasional snowfall, and summer days are long and lazy.
2. The People
No matter where you live, you’ll never lack neighbors who epitomize Southern hospitality.
3. The Affordable Living
When you consider housing, taxes, utilities and daily living expenses, the cost of living in Arkansas is considerably lower than in most states.
4. The Recreational Riches
Hike, bike, swim, fish, geocache, camp, hunt or even dig for diamonds — the to-do list is as long as it is enjoyable here in Arkansas. No matter your interests, age or abilities, there’s something you’ll love doing in The Natural State’s great big playground. Golf more than 200 courses; run a marathon in Little Rock; climb to the top of Mount Nebo for stunning views; fly fish in the Ozarks’ clear mountain waters; savor juicy Hope watermelons; or hunt the rice fields of the Upper and Lower Deltas, a sportsman’s paradise during duck season.
5. The Location
Living in a state located in middle America has its advantages. Those who like to visit the big city are just hours from Nashville, Dallas, St. Louis, Tulsa and Memphis—and a trip to the beach isn’t hard to manage with the Gulf Coast just a day’s drive away.
6. The Opportunities
Whether you’re looking for a job or volunteer opportunities, Arkansas has much to offer. As Greater Little Rock, Northwest Arkansas, Texarkana in Southwest Arkansas and Jonesboro in the Upper Delta continue to grow, professionals are needed to fill positions in fields ranging from technology and agriculture to teaching and sales.
7. The Convenience
Arkansas offers laidback charm — even in its larger cities. Compared with major cosmopolitan areas, traffic here is rarely a problem, and most destinations are nearby and easily accessible.
8. The Quality of Health Care
Arkansas boasts some of the country’s finest health care facilities. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, for instance, is consistently listed in U.S. News & World Report’s annual edition of “America’s Best Hospitals,” and is one of two Level 1 Trauma Care Centers in the state. There are also five Level 2 trauma centers and several VA medical centers throughout the state.
9. The Arts Scene
Fayetteville, Little Rock, Conway and Texarkana theaters regularly host the country’s most critically acclaimed touring companies, while offerings grow in El Dorado and Fort Smith. The Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock is the nation’s premier repository for works on paper, and Bentonville’s Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art has featured work from the likes of Georgia O’Keeffe and Vincent Van Gogh. Hot Springs and Eureka Springs rank among the top 25 arts towns by various publications.
10. The Cusine
Some of the nation’s best Southern food— barbecue, pie, crawfish and fried catfish—is found here, while noted chefs at many Arkansas restaurants are creating worldly dishes with down home flair. Natives also love the bounty of locally grown, farm-fresh foods from our agrarian state. How about a craft brew?