The last decade has seen the cost of living increase across the nation. Although this increase can be largely attributed to rising oil prices and the increasing demand for luxury goods, it has nonetheless manifested itself in more modest cities and towns, too.
The need to save has become almost a necessity, and with more people seeing fit to live life to the fullest, those seeking to retire have found the perfect location to do so. Northwest Arkansas has seen a massive influx of retirees moving to the area, and it shows in the construction sites that proliferate the region. As a result, property values have seen a surge, as have rental prices.
Northwest Arkansas currently offers a relatively high quality of life as well as the opportunity to invest, with attractive retirement properties commanding high six-figure sums. This has made the area an interesting prospect for those seeking to move abroad, especially as the dollar has appreciated against other major currencies, making overseas travel more affordable.
5 Best Cities to Live In Northwest Arkansas
So, you’re thinking of moving to Northwest Arkansas? Maybe you’ve decided that the area’s better quality of life makes it the perfect place for you and your family to settle down. Or, perhaps, you’re part of the region’s growing number of retirees, seeking to rekindle some of what retirement was like back in the day, when life was easy?
Whatever your situation, Northwest Arkansas offers a host of benefits, from beautiful weather to an abundance of investment opportunities. Here are five of the best cities to live in in Northwest Arkansas.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville’s unique blend of history and culture makes it a city that’s not to be missed. With a population of just over 100,000, it’s the second-largest city in Northwest Arkansas and is home to the University of Arkansas. With a climate that changes from day to night, from hot and humid in the day to cool and damp at night, Fayetteville is the perfect place to be between seasons.
There’s a reason why so many people choose to live in Fayetteville, with its range of housing options, from luxurious resorts to comfortable college dormitories and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for a new beginning in a new city or a more established life in a resurgent area, Fayetteville has something for everyone.
Springdale
Springdale’s location, between the University of Arkansas and the Arkansas River, makes it a hub for education and retail. The city’s main shopping area, Springdale Mall, possesses a wide range of retailers and eateries, as well as a movie theatre and an indoor-outdoor swimming pool. With a moderate climate, the opportunity for outdoor activity is wide-ranging, with hiking, biking, and fishing all available within an hour or so of the city.
Not your typical retirement destination, Springdale is home to lots of young people, too. In fact, it’s one of the city’s main attractions, attracting large numbers of visitors to the area each year. There are lots for both young and old alike in this city, with museums, galleries, and even a zoo to keep residents and visitors alike entertained.
Rogers
Located just 40 minutes from downtown Denver, the upscale city of Rogers offers a unique blend of big-city living and small-town America. The majority of the city’s 200,000 inhabitants live within the urban core, a vibrant cultural center surrounded by upscale residential neighborhoods. Thanks to the city’s superior public transit system, residents can enjoy comfortable access to just about anywhere in the metro area.
Although the cost of living in Rogers is high, with an average property price of $600,000, the city is a hub for business and commerce, boasting over 100,000 employed residents. If you’re in the market for a fresh start or are looking to expand your investments, Rogers is a great option due to its central location and warm weather.
Bentonville
Bentonville is located just a few minutes from downtown Arkansas City, but it feels like a different world. Settled in the 1840s, the city grew rapidly due to the demand for beef cattle, establishing itself as the country’s center for the livestock trade. More recently, petrochemical plants have begun to appear, providing additional employment opportunities.
Bentonville’s downtown district is a cultural hub, boasting several museums, galleries, and even a performing arts center. Its historic district is also a place that you shouldn’t miss, boasting a magnificent variety of architectural styles. If a traditional appeal is your kind of thing, you could buy a house or condo in the city’s historic district for just under $100,000.
Arlington
Arlington is located under an hour away from both Little Rock and North Little Rock, making it the perfect location for commuters looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The town is home to a diverse population, with a large number of international students contributing to its cultural scene. If you’re looking for a place that’s close to the city, yet has a small-town feel, then Arlington could be the place for you.
A place that’s rich in both history and culture, Arlington’s downtown area is a bit of a contrast to most places we’ve discussed so far. The area was settled in the 1890s, and while most of the city’s 19th-century structures have been preserved, the most recent additions to the downtown area reflect the area’s current eclectic cultural scene.
Located in the heart of the United States, the opportunity for a new life at virtually any location beckons. Northwest Arkansas has undoubtedly seen a rise in popularity over the last few years, providing residents with the perfect place to retire. Whether you choose to make the most of the area’s temperate climate and a large number of investment opportunities, or whether you want to live within an urban environment and enjoy the lively nightlife, Northwest Arkansas has something for everyone.
