Considering living in Little Rock? Good choice! There are many benefits to living in Little Rock, and Arkansas in general. It’s big enough to have everything you need but small enough to have a small-town, tight-knit feel. If you’re considering making the move, or if your work is moving you there, here are some things you should know about living in Little Rock.
1. The food is fantastic
Fixed in the center of Kansas City, St. Louis, Memphis, and Dallas, you’ll find Little Rock. This means you’ll get the best of all culinary worlds in the heart of Arkansas. The barbecue is as diverse as the people, and the city offers amazing Southern eateries and every other type of food. Don’t miss Vino’s Brew Pub, Whole Hog Cafe, Damgoode Pies, and for a special night out, Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse.
2. The cost of living is low
Compared to the rest of the country, the price of food, fuel, and fun is quite affordable. The median home cost in Little Rock is $163,100. If you’re coming from the West or the Northeast, the prices can be a real shock. The median rent is $875 for a two-bedroom apartment, and it’s not difficult to find it much lower than that if you’re looking for a small place. It’s also a good place to save some money for the future since the cost of living is lower than the national average.
3. The people are friendly
Southern hospitality still exists in Arkansas. The people are friendly all over the state. If you’re waiting in line at a grocery store, expect the person in front of you to strike up a conversation. If you break down on the side of the road, expect someone to stop within a few minutes.
4. There’s limited public transportation
There aren’t a lot of options for public transportation in Little Rock. However, you do have the Metro, taxis, and ride-sharing services. If you’re in the inner city, walking is also a good option most of the year. Outside of the inner city, there’s limited public transportation and you’ll definitely need some type of vehicle.
5. The River Market is hoppin’
There is always something going on at the River Market. Check the schedule to look for concerts and other events. Some quite famous bands play the stage on the river. There are also plenty of good hangout spots on the river, including the Flying Saucer, a bar with a great atmosphere and literally hundreds of beer options.
6. It’s close to many big cities
When you move to Little Rock, you’ll be a day trip away from many larger cities. Memphis is a two-hour drive from Little Rock, and Dallas is just under a five-hour drive away. Little Rock isn’t small, but it’s also not as big as many people expect. If you need more, take a drive or catch a short flight from the Clinton National Airport.
7. There are several attractions to enjoy
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, located in MacArthur Park, always has something going on. You have to see the William J. Clinton Presidential Library at least once. Don’t forget to check out the permanent exhibits, and make a comment about how the library looks like a mobile home. The Big Dam Bridge is the longest specially built bicycle and pedestrian bridge in the country. Visit at night to see the twinkling lights.
8. There are plenty of hiking options
If you enjoy hiking, you’ll love the choices in Little Rock. Pinnacle Mountain State Park offers some nice hiking spots. Pinnacle Mountain itself has a trailside, and a rock side, to reach the top for unbeatable views. Mount Magazine boasts the highest peak in Arkansas. You can reach the summit within a couple of hours. Hot Springs has several good trails as well. If you love spectacular views, check out the Hot Springs Mountain Tower.
9. You have some options for sports
There are some minor league teams in Little Rock, and going to the games is a local pastime. It doesn’t cost much to go watch an Arkansas Travelers baseball game. About once a year, you can watch the Arkansas Razorbacks play in Little Rock at War Memorial Stadium.
10. The neighborhoods are unique
Each neighborhood in Little Rock has its own draw to potential residents. Hillcrest is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of Little Rock that is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant nightlife. Downtown Little Rock is the city’s central business district and is home to several government buildings, cultural institutions, and business offices. Chenal Valley is a master-planned community located in the western part of Little Rock that is known for its rolling hills, scenic views, and well-manicured homes. West Little Rock is a suburban neighborhood located in the western part of the city that is known for its spacious homes, tree-lined streets, and high-end shopping and dining options. To choose which neighborhood is best for you, you’ll want to evaluate what is most important to you in your surrounding. Choose a location that is convenient to your frequent destinations and within your ideal price range.
Frequently asked questions about Little Rock, Arkansas
Little Rock is a good place to live because it offers the facilities of a large city with the perks of a small town. Its excellent hospitals and vibrant river district give it a metropolitan feel. However, the outdoor recreational facilities and low cost of living are benefits that most people don’t get living in a capital city.
Little Rock’s weather is pleasant for most of the year. Summer brings hot, steamy weather, but winters are fairly mild, with snow a rarity. Expect 50 inches of rain on average, with most falling in April and November. There’s an average of 39 tornadoes each year, with most occurring in April and May. Little Rock’s emergency management page can help you prepare for these storms.
Little Rock has a strong job market with an unemployment rate of 2.8%, nearly a full percentage point less than the national average. Its economy is diverse, with health care, aerospace, banking, and technology among the top industries. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Baptist Health, Little Rock Air Force Base, and Arkansas Children’s Hospital are among the city’s top employers.
Now you’re ready to move to Little Rock. You’ll get to experience the history, people, and food that Arkansas has to offer. See how cheap the rent is for yourself. Check out the available Little Rock apartments for rent on Zumper.
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