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Fayetteville, Arkansas

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

59
Overall Score

Fayetteville, Arkansas, nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains, is a vibrant city known for its natural beauty, strong community, and as the home of the University of Arkansas. It consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S., attracting residents with its blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a welcoming atmosphere. The city's character is shaped by its Razorback pride, evident in the revitalized downtown area, particularly Dickson Street, which serves as a hub for live music, arts, and a diverse culinary scene.

Fayetteville has experienced significant growth, with its population estimated at 106,623 in 2025, making it the second-most populous city in Arkansas. People are drawn to Fayetteville for its balance of affordability, amenities, and a high quality of life, making it an appealing destination for young professionals, families, and students alike. The city's commitment to preserving its natural surroundings, with numerous parks, trails, and lakes, further enhances its appeal as a desirable place to call home.

About Arkansas

Arkansas, known as "The Natural State," offers diverse geography from the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains to the Mississippi River Delta, fostering a relaxed, nature-oriented lifestyle. The economy, historically rooted in agriculture with rice and poultry as leading products, has diversified to include significant contributions from manufacturing (food products, chemicals, wood and paper products, aerospace parts) and a growing service sector, largely influenced by Walmart's presence. Living in Arkansas is generally affordable, with a cost of living consistently below the national average, particularly for housing. The state experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers, and while property taxes are low, sales taxes can be high.

106,623
Population
$70K
Avg Salary
91
Cost Index
58.8
Quality Score
How this 59/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 45 / 100 45.0 30% 13.5
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 91.0 55.0 25% 13.8
Economy & jobs Median household income: $66,237 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 3.9% 63.4 20% 12.7
Growth Population growth rate: 2.1% Job growth rate: 2.7% 75.8 15% 11.4
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 75 / 100 75.0 10% 7.5
Overall score 58.8

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=94 ✓ perfect), last refreshed 29 September 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

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Quality Scores

Business
75
Livability
81
Affordability
100
Growth
80

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Fayetteville is notably lower than the national average, running approximately 8.6% below the U.S. average according to 2024 data. This affordability extends across various categories, including housing, utilities, transportation, and healthcare expenses. While the median home value in Fayetteville was $349,600 in 2024, which is slightly higher than the national average, the overall cost index remains favorable.

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Downtown Fayetteville averaged around $1,402 per month as of September 2026, with two-bedroom apartments averaging $1,608. The lower cost of living contributes significantly to the city's high livability and affordability scores, making it an attractive option for individuals and families seeking a good quality of life without the burden of high expenses.

Average Rent
$1,402/mo
Groceries
$400/mo
Transport
$40/mo
Utilities
$180/mo
Healthcare
$150/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$45.00
Cinema ticket
$12.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$20.00
Monthly groceries
$400.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Fayetteville's economy is robust, with strong job growth that has outpaced the national rate since 2011. Employment in Fayetteville, AR grew at a rate of 3.72% from 2023 to 2024, with the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) experiencing an average annual job growth of 2.7% in the 12 months ending March 2025. The city's economic resilience is further highlighted by Arkansas having one of the fastest-growing economies in the nation in 2024.

The most common employment sectors in Fayetteville as of 2024 include Health Care & Social Assistance, Educational Services, and Retail Trade. Major employers and ongoing expansions, such as those at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the completion of a new Walmart corporate campus, are expected to continue driving job creation. The city also fosters an entrepreneurial climate, with new programs introduced in 2024 to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. The unemployment rate in Fayetteville was 3.9% in 2026, which is below the national average.

The average salary in Fayetteville is $70,000 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade +1.80% Manufacturing +2.20% Health Care & Social Assistance +2.50% Educational Services +2.00% Wholesale Trade +2.80%

Climate

🌡️
60°F
Avg Temp
☀️
86°F
Summer High
❄️
30°F
Winter Low
🌧️
41.10"
Annual Rain
💧
70.00%
Humidity
🌤️
257
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Fayetteville primarily relies on personal vehicles, as public transportation options are somewhat limited, making car ownership almost a necessity for many residents. Most people in Fayetteville drove alone to work in 2024, and the average commute time was 18.5 minutes, which is shorter than the national average. Car ownership in Fayetteville is approximately the same as the national average, with an average of two cars per household.

Despite the car dependency, Fayetteville is recognized for its walkability, with a Walk Score of 89 out of 100, indicating that most errands can be accomplished on foot. The city has invested in its pedestrian infrastructure, with over 50 miles of paved trails and 75% of residents living within a half-mile of a trail. While traffic can be congested during major university events, the city's active transportation plans aim to further enhance walkability and bikeability.

19 min
Avg Commute
30.00/10
Transit Score
89.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Fayetteville consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S..
The cost of living in Fayetteville is 8.6% lower than the national average.
The city boasts a high livability score of 81/100, ranking in the 96th percentile nationally.
Fayetteville has a strong job market, with job growth outpacing the national rate since 2011.
The city is very walkable, with a Walk Score of 89 out of 100, and extensive trail systems.
Drawbacks
Fayetteville's total crime rate is 32% higher than the national average.
The violent crime rate in Fayetteville is 18% higher than the national average.
Public transportation options are limited, making car ownership almost a necessity.
The homeownership rate in Fayetteville (41.8% in 2024) is lower than the national average.
Traffic congestion can be an issue, particularly during major university events.

Questions about Fayetteville

What people ask about living in and moving to Fayetteville, Arkansas.

What’s the overall vibe of living in Fayetteville? General 1 answer

Fayetteville blends a small‑town feel with the energy of a college community. The cost of living is modest, with an average rent of $1,402 and a median salary of $70,000, making everyday expenses manageable. While the safety score suggests some caution, many neighborhoods are quiet and family‑friendly. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation, a growing arts scene, and a variety of dining options. The city’s...

How does Fayetteville's cost of living compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Fayetteville's cost of living index is 91, meaning it is about 9 % cheaper than the national average of 100. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation tend to be lower, while housing costs are close to the national median. With an average rent of $1,402 per month, you’ll find that your housing budget stretches further here than in many larger metros. Keep in mind that personal spending habits...

Is Fayetteville a safe place to live? Safety 1 answer

Fayetteville’s safety score is 45.0 out of 100, indicating higher crime levels than many suburban areas. Crime tends to be concentrated in specific neighborhoods, while many residential districts experience relatively low incident rates. Prospective residents should review crime maps and statistics available from the city’s public safety department or state law‑enforcement websites. Additionally, speaking with local...

What should I know about utilities and services when moving to Fayetteville? Moving Here 1 answer

When you move to Fayetteville, you’ll need to arrange electricity, natural gas, water, and waste services. The city’s utility providers have online portals where you can set up new accounts, schedule service start dates, and view rate structures. Internet and cable options are offered by several regional providers; compare plans for speed and price. Don’t forget to register your vehicle and obtain a state driver’s li...

How are the public schools rated in Fayetteville? Schools & Education 1 answer

Fayetteville is served by a public school district that includes several elementary schools, middle schools, and a high school. Performance ratings are published annually by the state department of education and can be viewed on the district’s website. Generally, the district’s schools perform at or near state averages, with some schools receiving higher marks for academic achievement and extracurricular programs. Pa...

What public transportation options exist in Fayetteville? Getting Around 1 answer

The city operates a public transit system that includes fixed‑route buses covering most of the urban core and surrounding neighborhoods. Service hours typically run from early morning until early evening on weekdays, with reduced weekend schedules. For real‑time routes, fares, and service updates, consult the city transit authority’s website or mobile app. Additionally, the city maintains a network of bike lanes and...

What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Fayetteville? Housing 1 answer

The average rent across Fayetteville is $1,402 per month, which includes a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single‑family units. One‑bedroom apartments in central areas tend to be at or slightly above this average, while options farther from the core may be lower. To gauge current listings, check regional rental websites, local classifieds, or the city’s housing authority portal, which often provides up‑to‑date mark...

What recreational activities are popular in Fayetteville? Things to Do 1 answer

Fayetteville offers a blend of outdoor and cultural amenities. The city maintains numerous parks, trail systems, and green spaces ideal for hiking, biking, and picnicking. There is a vibrant arts scene with galleries, music venues, and community festivals that occur throughout the year. For specific event calendars, check the city’s cultural affairs webpage or the regional tourism board, which list upcoming concerts,...

What are the average salaries like in Fayetteville? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

The median annual salary in Fayetteville is about $70,000, which is comparable to many mid‑size U.S. cities. This figure reflects a range of industries, including education, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. For recent graduates, entry‑level positions may start below the median, but the city’s relatively low cost of living helps offset lower wages. Job seekers should explore the city’s employment portals, the re...

Where can I find hospitals or clinics in Fayetteville? Healthcare 1 answer

Fayetteville has a major medical center that provides emergency services, inpatient care, and a variety of specialty clinics. In addition, there are several outpatient clinics and urgent‑care facilities spread throughout the city. For detailed provider lists, insurance network directories, and appointment scheduling, visit the health system’s website or the state health department’s provider lookup tool. It’s also us...

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Fayetteville? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.
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