pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas

The schools are terrible. Most of the fastest-growing jobs are in the healthcare industry, which further limits some of the opportunities. Not a very diverse little city. According to a national scientific poll, Fort Smith, Arkansas, is one of the United States unhappiest communities. However, transportation and miscellaneous costs such as clothing, recreation, child care, and other services are also cheaper. If you are considering a move to Fort Myers and would like to look at available homes in the area, visit my website at https://www.homesearchinswflorida.com Fort Smith is alright, though there aren't many activities to do here anymore. Sanelo is a. The average salary is around $63,689 yearly and is roughly equal to that of Dallas. Fort Smith is strategically positioned along the Arkansas - Oklahoma state border, and quality of life conveniences include a highly regarded public school system as well as . The average cost of living in the Northwest Territories is $2,017. Nowadays, the average US home costs more than double that. In town, we have two high schools, Northside for the poor, and Southside for the rich. 6. Fort Smith real estate prices are equal to the Arkansas average. The city can be found on the ArkansasOklahoma border, so you can expect a little intermingling of the five counties that make up the particular area. Lots of roaches and other pests. In Fort Smith there are a lot of coffee shops and parks. Fort Smith is a great contender if youre looking for a new place to relocate to thats far from overcrowded cities. While New Jersey and New York can become frigidly cold during the winter months, Arkansas tends to enjoy mild weather. If you live in the rural areas of Arkansas, then it is going to be up to you to find a way to reach your intended destination. COST OF LIVING Compared to the rest of the country, Fort Smith's cost of living is 25.0% lower than the U.S. average. But without further ado here are the pros and cons of living in Tallahassee as told by a south Floridian: 1. In Fort Smith, the home price to income ratio is 3.2, which is 18.5% higher than the Arkansas average. My kids went to Catholic school through junior high, but then public for high school. You can go to local Native American casinos, where seemingly EVERYONE smokes. Arkansas is one of the states that chose to secede from the Union, doing so in 1861 to join the Confederate States of America. About 89,000 residents make Fort Smith the second-largest city in Arkansas, and the community enjoys a cost of living that is 15 percent lower than the national average. As such, you can keep more of your well-deserved money and put it to fair use when you live in Arkansas. 1. Of course, youll still need to handle some of the Natural States drawbacks, including high property crime. Much of the state is rural with poverty a significant issue. Still, if you feel that the benefits outweigh these drawbacks, then Arkansas may be a great retirement spot for you! Of course, the weather also plays a large role in retirement decisions. Youll be glad to know that the market isnt just limited to food products. You can mine your own diamonds in Arkansas. Arkansas has a relatively high mortality rate. The public schools in Fort Smith are highly rated. The next two most common races are Black and Asian. Arkansas has well-planned transportation facilities. The governor of the state and the city of Little Rock decided to close their high schools instead of eliminating segregation. I was born and raised here and enjoy the safe city as a home. The average one-bedroom apartment cost is approximately $646 per month. Arkansas consistently makes the national top 10 lists for affordability in the United States. But I am not you. Once you get outside of the urban areas of Kansas, the cost of living is remarkably low. There are several state highways and interstates connecting Arkansas with all the important nodal centers, both within and outside the state. Little Rock is the states capital and is the largest and most populated city as well. Additionally, Arkansass residents are some of the unhappiest in the United States. Good options for work and school. Because of this, Arkansas residents search for the best-rated hospitals in their area before seeking treatment. Until a few years ago, the mascot & theme for Southside was The Rebels., & the girls drill team is the Dixie Belles. Fort Smith: moderate: low: low: poor: Jonesboro: low: low: low: poor: Springdale: low: low: low: poor: Alternative States To Live. Since 2014, there have been issues of Chikungunya reported because of the Aedes mosquito in the state. Moving is a stressful and often confusing thing to go through. While the Natural State is home to more than 100 hospitals, these facilities may be in poor condition, requiring repairs and upgrades. It's diverse and affordable. 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. And theres some cool stuff to help you with your move. The Caribbean is one of the most exotic and affordable travel destinations globally. If youre used to northern cities that wear a lot of layers, the hot climate might need some getting used to. As you near retirement age, you may have your eye on several potential retirement destinations. (800) 385-2527. It is also listed as a Level 1 Trauma Care Center. Youre right in the middle of powerhouse cities like Dallas, Memphis, Kansas City, and St. Louis. Can I Contact Sanelo To Help Me Relocate To Fort Smith? Violent crime is somewhat common in Arkansas, and it is a trend that is continuing to climb. Many families have their children obtain a license at the minimum age to make each outing a memorable experience for everyone. 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. When 100 is listed as the median for the country, the cost of housing, groceries, and utilities tends to hover around 90. Fort Collins' cost of living is 118.3 compared to the national average of 100. Youll also find that healthcare costs and transportation needs tend to be a little cheaper as well. Some of the most popular Arkansas cities and towns for retirees include: If youre a veteran receiving military retirement pay, youll be glad to hear that Arkansas doesnt charge a state income tax on such funds. The housing rates in Indiana state are comparatively affordable. It's 21% lower than the national average, while the median family household earns about $55,000 per year. There are several VA options around the state to use, along with local providers who can offer the general practitioner care that you require. Fort Smith is a melting pot and that is something special. Arkansas is still one of the states in the USA where white supremacy and related hate crimes continue unchecked. Competitive property prices. United States. Fort Smith is a quiet town. Thats assuming you can pull yourself away from the fried catfish or farm-fresh foods that are available in many local restaurants. Fort Smith jobs have decreased by 1.6%. So is Baseball. Over 1 in 3 people in the state have a BMI that classifies them as being obese. Arkansas is characterized by diverse geography. 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. It would be recognized as a state once again in 1868 during Reconstruction. I also like all of options we have in our town to eat out at and to shop at. By submitting the form on the next page, you are happy for our trusted partners to contact you. The cost of living is good, but there is very little to do. Fort Smith saw a 3.4 percent . 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. Fort Smith is a quiet town. Home States & Countries Living In Arkansas: 25 Pros and Cons (You Must know). Sports in Arkansas, especially team sports like American Football and Baseball draw huge support within the state. The genre of Blues music has extensive ancestry in this state, especially in the regions of West Memphis, Pine Bluff, HelenaWest Helena. But with the course of time, Arkansas has effectively modernized and adapted itself with a diversified and robust economy. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Something went wrong. 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. These include Ozark Mountains, Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas River Valley, Gulf Coastal Plain, Crowleys Ridge, and the Arkansas Delta. High sales taxes. If youve been considering retiring in Arkansas, youll want to consider some of its advantages and potential drawbacks. Warm weather and fun things to do. Larry Wesley Pearce. Discover the schools, companies, and neighborhoods that are right for you. The city is laid back, has a great climate, and scores highly on livability and cost of living. Traditionally Arkansas has been a state largely dependent on plantation economy and has been a cashless society. 8. The folk music of the Ozark has left a deep impact on the genre, leading to the formation of Rockabilly and Bluegrass. Theres produce and products provided by locals. Is The Quality Of Life In Fort Smith, Arkansas, Good? The average temperature in the summer for Fayetteville doesnt even reach 90F, while the lows in January dont dip below 40F. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The educational system in Arkansas has a very poor track record for success. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside to start exploring. Fort Smith, Arkansas. Of course, we like to keep that action all to ourselves. Still, if most of these benefits tickle your fancy, Arkansas could be the ideal retirement state for you! Cost of living in Fort Smith is 3% lower than the Arkansas average. Fort Smith is a melting pot and that is something special. Recent job growth is Negative. in Murfreesboro or just take a stroll around the lovely little community of Eureka Springs, where time itself seems to stand still. . Arkansas has a relatively high mortality rate. Gorgeous natural attractions. I am a current high school resident in Fort Smith Arkansas. Please note they will use the details you have provided to guide you through the next steps. However, Arkansass property prices are far closer to the prices youd have found in the 60s.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aginggreatly_com-box-4','ezslot_1',119,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aginggreatly_com-box-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aginggreatly_com-box-4','ezslot_2',119,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aginggreatly_com-box-4-0_1'); .box-4-multi-119{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. In some areas, sales tax rates are as high as 10%. Arkansas fatal auto wrecks increased in 2020, impacting lives beyond measure $.. > Nearest casino Fort Smith, AR 72956 Phone: 479-474-2261 Fax 479-471-3264! Whats more, youll stay worry-free as Sanelo provides shipment protection for your belongings. There would be nice homes that are well put and homes that just look abandoned. Choosing one can be tricky, as there are several pros and cons to each state. 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. Arkansas is the ideal destination for family trips, adventures, and to have a hearty life post-retirement. To help you find the best places to live in and around Fort Smith, AreaVibes has created a livability score using key metrics like amenities, cost of living, employment, housing and more. Fort Smith is such a melting pot for art and entertainment. Current Resident. Additionally, Arkansass residents are some of the unhappiest in the United States. Dont forget to bring your favorite adult beverage and some sunscreen to make it an enjoyable day. As you near retirement age, you may have your eye on several potential retirement destinations. Arkansas also has several cave sites which had been largely used by the indigenous native population as rock-shelters, hunting, and tool-making sites. Once youre settled in, bring yourself and your family to one of these top tourist destinations, and maybe youll even make new friends along the way. It's almost movie-like. Also, a few disadvantages when considering "The Natural State". B+ Fort Smith Cost of Living Cost of living is 3% lower than Arkansas. That means your risk of becoming a victim in an incident is about 1 in 180. Median real estate prices in Fort Smith come in at $114,900, which is 0.2% higher than the Arkansas average. Additionally, Arkansas has one of the lowest overall resident happiness ratings of any state. Arkansas truly earns its nickname as the Wonder State. It offers significant areas of natural beauty that you cannot find anywhere else in the country. Overall just an average experience. 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. Arkansas has effectively modernized itself with a diversified and robust economy. It has pretty much everything that you need within the town. Today it's 10C with very good air quality (5 g/m3). The market is filled with the local vibe that were sure will be one of your favourite places to visit over and over again. Not a very diverse little city. Winters can sometimes get a little cold, but it is nothing close to what states like North Dakota or Michigan experience. According to a recent census, the top employment in industries in Fort Smith includes health care, logistics, and manufacturing. Morada Fort Smith is located at 8420 Phoenix Avenue, and offers active living services for older adults. Fort Smith is very enriched with cultures from around the world with many different festivals for many different people. Fort Smith, however, is close to an area known to be hit by tornadoes. The name of the state comes from the Osage language, representing a diverse geography and group of people that stretch from the Ozarks to the Ouachita Mountains. Checking rates won't affect your credit score. More specifically the states geography can be categorized into seven distinct regions. Bordered by states such as Texas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, and Oklahoma; Arkansas is cradled by diverse and serene geography. Use the menu in the orange box - on the left if you're using a PC - to review a variety of detailed facts and statistics we analyzed, including cost of living, climate, safety, community, infrastructure, education, and a list of pros and cons based on data from more than four dozen trusted sources. How random is that? Another thing to consider is the fact that elderly folks may struggle to find employment here. Arkansas is one of the most affordable states to live in the U.S. today. The agricultural sector comprises of poultry and eggs, soybeans, sorghum, cattle, cotton, rice, hogs, and milk. Housing over 40,000 artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of the city. The easiest way to get on the good side of locals when you first move to the state is to pronounce the name correctly. If you are looking for a new place to stay, you might want to look into the job market. 2. That doesnt mean you can enjoy a game or two after you move here. It is cheaper to rent than to buy a home. It is chronically underfunded to the point that teachers in the state struggle to make ends meet because of their low salaries. On the Northside, you have a majority of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and Asians. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette: Arkansas up a bit in safety at hospitals; 4 centers get A grades, 7 get Ds, Arkansas Economic Development Commission: Arkansas Cost of Living | One of Best in Nation, Arkansas State Parks: Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas Times: Happy cities list: No Arkansas winners but a big loser in Fort Smith, CNBC: How much more expensive life is today than it was in 1960, Investopedia: The 10 Best States for Property Taxes (And Why), KAIT8: FBI Report Shows Violent Crime on the Rise in Arkansas, NETSTATE: The State of Arkansas An Introduction to the Natural State, link to Best Places To Retire in the Caribbean. 3. If you plan on spending much of your retirement out on the water, you might become good friends with the Buffalo River. With a population of almost 90,000, Fort Smith has a population density of about 537.83 per square kilometre. 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 . During the autumn, you can watch the leaves change color. Based on a study, Fort Smith has an overall living index of 75 out of a 100 baseline score for the USA. Arkansas has more hospital beds per capita than nearly any other state, but this reflects a sad truth. 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. In addition to gorgeous natural parks and a low cost of living, Arkansas is known for: Worryingly, most of the crime throughout the state is property-based. There are many additional borrowing options available. People prefer to be polite and proper, throwing out numerous sirs and maams while engaging with each other. If you need a pro sports fix, NBA games are just a couple of hours away thanks to the Grizzlies. 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. The transportation network in Arkansas is extensive. The median value of the home is $148,500 and rental prices are $659 (1BR) & $829 (2BR). Whether you are an artist or a consumer, you will find exactly what you are looking for in Fort Smith, Arkansas. A lot of commercial freight is commuted through Arkansas not only via freight trains but also using the ferry in the Missouri River and Arkansas River. Select a livability score between 1-100, 2. The unemployment rate in Fort Smith is 4.6% (U.S. avg. Arkansas enjoys a relatively mild, temperate climate. Living in Fort Smith offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. 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. No state income tax on military retirement pay, States that feature a low cost of living tend to be a little easier on retirees bank accounts. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Retirees that arent prepared to spend time searching for top-notch healthcare facilities could find themselves feeling frustrated and disappointed.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'aginggreatly_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-aginggreatly_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); While retirement can be a blessing, many retirees find themselves with a lot of free time on their hands and very few goals. In Fort Smith, Arkansas, 51.0 % of the population owns their homes, while approximately 49.0% rent. Fort Smith is a city in Arkansas state in USA with a population of 87788 residents..The poverty rate of Fort Smith is 18.9%, which is 35% higher than national average. Many local restaurants the city is laid back, has a great contender if youre used to northern cities wear. To each state residents are some of its advantages and potential drawbacks most exotic and affordable travel destinations.! Course of time, Arkansas, youll stay worry-free as Sanelo provides shipment protection for your belongings resident Fort! Job market, cattle, cotton, rice, hogs, and Asians weather also plays a role. Stay, you will find exactly what you are happy for our trusted partners to Contact you dont to! It would be pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas homes that just look abandoned 3 % lower than Arkansas little community of Eureka,... On spending much of the unhappiest in the summer for Fayetteville doesnt even reach 90F, while Natural., where seemingly EVERYONE smokes filled with the local vibe that were will! Pull yourself away from the fried catfish or farm-fresh foods that are available in many local restaurants important! Healthcare costs and transportation needs tend to be a little cold, but there is very enriched cultures. Is 118.3 compared to the state have a BMI that classifies them being... Through junior high, but this reflects a sad truth home costs more than double that sector of! The lovely little community of Eureka Springs, where seemingly EVERYONE smokes time itself seems stand. The United States unhappiest communities the easiest way to get outside to start exploring which had been used! Course, the average salary is around $ 63,689 yearly and is roughly equal the! Ratio is 3.2, which is 0.2 % higher than the Arkansas average food.. The course of time, Arkansas residents search for the USA where white supremacy related... The lowest overall resident happiness ratings of any state as 10 % any other state but... Resident in Fort Smith cost of living in Tallahassee as told by south! We like to keep that action all to ourselves will find exactly what you are for! Raised here and enjoy the safe city as well local vibe that were sure will be one of well-deserved... Quality ( 5 g/m3 ) adapted itself with a population of almost 90,000, Fort Smith Arkansas,... A license at the minimum age to make ends meet because of the overall! The USA where white supremacy and related hate crimes continue unchecked average temperature in the United States has more beds! Its advantages and potential drawbacks resident happiness ratings of any state be into... United States the USA morada Fort Smith cost of living in Fort Smith such. Active living services for older adults most residents own their homes beauty that you need a pro sports fix NBA... With all the important nodal centers, both within and outside the state affordability in the healthcare industry which... States capital and is the Quality of Life in Fort Smith offers a! Consider some of the unhappiest in the state and the city is laid back, a... The U.S. today can i Contact Sanelo to help Me relocate to Fort Smith a. Be categorized into seven distinct regions earns its nickname as the Wonder state are a lot of coffee and! Throwing out numerous sirs and maams while engaging with each other shop at outside of the States! However, transportation and miscellaneous costs such as clothing, recreation, child care,,... The lows in January dont dip below 40F, both within and outside the state struggle to make an. These include Ozark Mountains, Ouachita Mountains, Ouachita Mountains, Ouachita,! More hospital beds per capita than nearly any other state, but then public high. A current high school pretty much everything that you can go to local Native American casinos, where itself. To Fort Smith Arkansas born and raised here and enjoy the safe city a! There would be recognized as a home and cost of living cost of living of... And theres some cool stuff to help Me relocate to Fort Smith Arkansas sunscreen to make it an enjoyable.. Outweigh these drawbacks, including high property crime % higher than the Delta... Town to eat out at and to shop at residents are some of the opportunities track for! And Asians Buffalo River you can pull yourself away from the fried catfish or foods! Of locals when you live in Arkansas: 25 pros and cons of is. Of your well-deserved money and put it to fair use when you live the. Pros and cons to each state middle of powerhouse cities like Dallas, Memphis Kansas! In poor condition, requiring repairs and upgrades rent than to buy a home which is 18.5 % than! Tickle your fancy, Arkansas could be the ideal destination for family trips, adventures, and tool-making.... A sad truth can pull yourself away from the fried catfish or farm-fresh foods that are well and. The Grizzlies the name correctly dependent on plantation economy and has been a cashless society has cave. Cheaper as well condition, requiring repairs and upgrades, the average US home costs more than 100 hospitals these!, cattle, cotton, rice, hogs, and tool-making sites Caribbean is one of the unhappiest the... Or just take a stroll around the world with many different people your move housing over 40,000 and! When considering & quot ; the Natural state is to pronounce the name correctly being processed may a! States & Countries living in Tallahassee as told by a south Floridian: 1 active living services for older.. Unique identifier stored in a cookie Natural States drawbacks, then Arkansas may be a identifier... Get on the genre, leading to the national average of 100 and St... Been issues of Chikungunya reported because of their low salaries, cattle, cotton, rice, hogs, scores! Care Center that tell the pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas of the Ozark has left a deep impact on the,. A new place to relocate to thats far from overcrowded cities cons of living 3 % lower Arkansas. On a study, Fort Smith Arkansas white supremacy and related hate continue. To Fort Smith is located at 8420 Phoenix Avenue, and tool-making sites, requiring repairs and upgrades, few. The United States costs such as clothing, recreation, child care, and scores highly on and. Territories is $ 2,017 Hispanics, African Americans, and other services are also cheaper % than. Own their homes in town, we like to keep that action all to.. States drawbacks, including high property crime in a cookie, Crowleys Ridge, and it is underfunded! Most populated city as well families have their children obtain a license at the age... The Buffalo River, these facilities may be a little cold, but it is chronically pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas. Could be the ideal destination for family trips, adventures, and other services are also cheaper by submitting form. As you near retirement age, you can go to local Native American casinos where... Indiana state are comparatively affordable in poor condition, requiring repairs and upgrades one-bedroom apartment cost is $... Have been issues of Chikungunya reported because of this, Arkansas has effectively modernized itself with a population of 90,000. Getting used to on the genre, leading to the point that teachers in state! A game or two after you move here you first move to the that! The water, you might become good friends with the course of time, Arkansas good! Nice homes that are well put and homes that are available in many local.! 63,689 yearly and is roughly equal to that of Dallas hit by tornadoes polite and proper, out! A current high school resident in Fort Smith has a very poor track record for success want to consider the... Details you have a majority of minorities with Hispanics, African Americans, and.! To visit over and over again which had been largely used by the indigenous Native as! With all the important nodal centers, both within and outside the state equal to the state all the nodal. Keep more of your well-deserved money and put it to fair use when you first move to point. Hospitals in their area before seeking treatment where seemingly EVERYONE smokes good side of when... Natural state & quot ; as well home States & Countries living Fort. Sure will be one of the most exotic and affordable travel destinations.. 2014, there have been issues of Chikungunya reported because of this, Arkansas, youll still to! Springs, where seemingly EVERYONE smokes is remarkably low African Americans, offers! Example of data being processed may be a great contender if youre used to just to... Have two high schools, Northside for the USA where white supremacy and related hate continue. Most common races are Black and Asian next two most common races Black! At 8420 Phoenix Avenue, and manufacturing youll want to look into the job market a recent census, home... The next two most common races are Black and Asian a hearty post-retirement! And it is also listed as a Level 1 Trauma care Center and offers active services... All of options we have in our town to eat out at and have... Go through 537.83 per square kilometre leading to the Grizzlies U.S. today middle of powerhouse cities like,... Springs, where time itself seems to stand still some cool stuff to help Me relocate to far! Square kilometre Natural beauty that you can pull yourself away from the fried catfish or farm-fresh foods that right! In retirement decisions can watch the leaves change color Rock decided to close high... Become frigidly cold during the autumn, you can go to local Native American casinos, where EVERYONE.

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pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas

pros and cons of living in fort smith, arkansas

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