Jobs & Economy in Fort Smith

Fort Smith is a historically rich city situated along the Arkansas River on the border with Oklahoma, serving as the commercial and cultural hub of the Western Arkansas River Valley. Founded as a military post in 1817, the city played a pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States and retains a vibrant frontier heritage showcased at the Fort Smith National Historic Site. Today, it balances its storied past with a growing economic footprint, featuring a revitalized downtown, diverse neighborhoods, and a welcoming community atmosphere that attracts new residents seeking southern hospitality and affordable living.

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.