
Let’s explore what makes Northwest Arkansas, nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains, such an appealing place to live.
Why Live in Northwest Arkansas
Northwest Arkansas is a picturesque region, home to scenic parks like Devil’s Den State Park and Hobbs State Park, both ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking. Also, according to the latest data from RentCafe, the cost of living in Arkansas is approximately 8% lower than the U.S. average, with housing costs being particularly affordable at 23% below the national average. This affordability extends to Northwest Arkansas, where cities like Fayetteville and Bentonville have living costs about 7% lower than the national average.
Top Cities to Call Home
According to Niche, Bentonville, Fayetteville, and Rogers are among the most desirable places to live in Northwest Arkansas.
Bentonville: Bentonville features museums, art galleries, and picturesque gardens. Bentonville Town Square is a hub of activity, with shops, eateries, and year-round events perfect for family outings.
Fayetteville: Fayetteville, home to the University of Arkansas, is a spirited and charming environment. West Dickson Street, in downtown Fayetteville, hosts breweries, shopping, and dining.
Rogers: Famous as the birthplace of Walmart, Rogers also houses breweries and upscale shops, drawing visitors from near and far.
Real Estate Insights
As of July, the real estate market in Northwest Arkansas was relatively affordable and saw a slight increase in housing inventory. According to Redfin, homes in Washington County sold after an average of 28 days on the market for a median price of $335,000, reflecting a 0.3% year-over-year increase. Benton County had a median sale price of about $380,000 (a 7.1% rise year-over-year) and stayed on the market for 25 days on average. Madison County had a median sale price of $285,000, and homes typically stayed on the market for an average of 56 days.