Ranked by U.S. NEWS
Northwest Arkansas consistently sets the standard for livability in Arkansas. With Rogers, Springdale, and Fayetteville earning top spots both statewide and nationally, this region stands out for its strong economy, reasonable housing costs, and quality of life. These rankings are no surprise; they reflect sustained growth and innovative development.
This years expansion to the US News rankings brought national visibility to two of Northwest Arkansas’s fastest-growing cities, highlighting their livability, affordability, and convenience.
#1 – Rogers, AR ( # 26 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 6.7
- Population: 73,714
- Average Commute: 17 minutes
- Median Home Value: $310,705
- Median Monthly Rent: $943
- Median Household Income: $84,282
#2 – Springdale, AR ( # 47 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 6.5
- Population: 91,767
- Average Commute: 18 minutes
- Median Home Value: $260,979
- Median Monthly Rent: $745
- Median Household Income: $64,316
According to Consumer Lending Analyst, Erika Giovanetti,
Being slightly smaller cities compared with Fayetteville, Rogers and Springdale are supported by a more balanced cost of living. For reference, Rogers ranks No. 32 for value and Springdale ranks No. 37, while Fayetteville performed significantly less favorably at No. 145. However, when you’re comparing cities nationwide, Fayetteville still did fairly well in the value category, sitting comfortably within the top fifth in the country.
#3 – Fayetteville, AR ( # 75 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 6.3
- Population: 100,391
- Average Commute: 16 minutes
- Median Home Value: $318,319
- Median Monthly Rent: $767
- Median Household Income: $59,716
While Fayetteville's national ranking shifted from last year, the broader scope of analysis adds critical context.
Erika Giovanetti Added,
Because our pool of cities is so much larger this year, Fayetteville earned its spot as one of this year’s Best Places to Live,” said Giovanetti. “Fayetteville was No. 10 out of 150 cities last year, but it’s No. 75 out of more than 850 this year. When you do the math, it went from being in the top 7% to the top 8% – so I wouldn’t say that it fell meaningfully in the rankings. In fact, Fayetteville scored No. 36 for quality of life, which means it’s in the top 5% nationwide for the largest and most important scoring category.
#4 – Conway, AR ( # 89 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 6.3
- Population: 68,977
- Average Commute: 14 minutes
- Median Home Value: $245,614
- Median Monthly Rent: $698
- Median Household Income: $56,394
#5 – Fort Smith, AR ( # 187 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 5.9
- Population: 90,575
- Average Commute: 15 minutes
- Median Home Value: $176,305
- Median Monthly Rent: $594
- Median Household Income: $53,853
#6 – Jonesboro, AR ( # 299 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 5.7
- Population: 80,659
- Average Commute: 17 minutes
- Median Home Value: $229,480
- Median Monthly Rent: $703
- Median Household Income: $54,596
#7 – Little Rock, AR ( # 382 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 5.5
- Population: 204,761
- Average Commute: 17 minutes
- Median Home Value: $224,033
- Median Monthly Rent: $763
- Median Household Income: $62,356
#8 – Hot Springs, AR ( # 468 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 5.3
- Population: 37,590
- Average Commute: 16 minutes
- Median Home Value: $169,912
- Median Monthly Rent: $681
- Median Household Income: $49,744
#9 – North Little Rock, AR ( # 482 Nationally )
- Overall Score: 5.3
- Population: 66,218
- Average Commute: 18 minutes
- Median Home Value: $177,820
- Median Monthly Rent: $756
- Median Household Income: $51,351
The numbers make it clear, Northwest Arkansas isn’t just doing well, it’s leading the way. With Rogers, Springdale, and Fayetteville all ranking in the Top 100 nationally, our area continues to stand out. We have a strong local economy, job opportunities, reasonable housing costs, and a solid quality of life, which are driving real, measurable success. It’s proof that Northwest Arkansas isn’t just keeping up, it’s setting the standard.
- The US News methodology page details how the rankings were determined.
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Washington & Benton County (Week of June 29th- July 5, 2025)
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Leadership in Action
💼 Leadership & Growth Tip: The Power of Collaboration
Strong leaders know that collaboration isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a strategy for success. When you work with others instead of in isolation, you multiply creativity, ownership, and problem-solving potential. Here’s how to lead with collaboration in mind:
- Create a culture of openness: Encourage team members to share ideas without fear of judgment. The best ideas often come from unexpected voices.
- Involve others early: Don’t wait until decisions are made to seek input. Bring people into the process at the idea stage to build trust and alignment.
- Listen to understand, not to reply: Active listening shows respect and can uncover insights that improve outcomes.
- Build on ideas, don’t shut them down: Even if an idea isn’t perfect, explore what’s behind it — often there’s a spark worth refining.
- Share credit freely: Recognize the contributions of others. It builds morale, trust, and a stronger team culture.
- Be clear on the goal: Collaboration works best when everyone is aligned on the “why” behind the work. Clarity fosters unity and purpose.
Collaboration isn’t about consensus — it’s about connection. The best leaders know how to pull people together to create something more substantial than they could alone.
Bentonville New Business
Tucked into the heart of the new Wal-Mart Headquarters, Airship on The Porch is now open! Designed as a cozy escape with a spacious covered patio, this location is perfect for unwinding or powering through your day. Enjoy coffee inspired by mornings on the porch and seasonal toasts served on house-made rustic Italian bread. Come experience your new favorite hangout—now serving and ready for pick-up orders!
Featured Listing
1208 Hickory Street, Cave Springs, AR 72718
Listing Price: $545,000
| 🛏 4 Beds | 🛁 2 Baths | 📐 2,250 Sq Ft | 🏗️ Completion 2020
Welcome to this stunning and spacious home that truly has it all! When you walk in, you’ll be greeted by a generous and inviting living room that seamlessly flows into a gorgeous, oversized covered deck, complete with a cozy outdoor fireplace, and a screened in porch. The kitchen has a hidden pantry, and the sellers converted the dining area to a playroom. Whether you're hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet family evenings, this space is perfect for creating memories all year round. Designed with both comfort and convenience in mind, this home features a desirable split floor plan that offers privacy and functionality for every member of the household. Nestled right in the heart of Northwest Arkansas, you’ll enjoy easy access to everything the area has to offer — top-rated schools, shopping, dining, parks, and more. This is more than just a home; it’s a lifestyle upgrade waiting for you to step in and make it your own. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to live in one of the most sought-after locations in NWA!
Listed By:
Collier & Associates
David Ciserno
Direct:479-295-8813
Office: 479-633-7411
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