What to know when moving to Fayetteville, AR
Fayetteville at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated area where 42.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 55.8% are renters.
- The Major Draw:
- The median gross rent is $973, making it relatively affordable compared to national averages.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 28.3%, some residents face economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.7% use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median home value of $323,900 to find a place here.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Fayetteville features a population of nearly 49,000, with a median household income of $50,413. The community reflects a strong educational background, as 42.5% of residents have a bachelor's degree. With 55.8% of the population renting, you will find a variety of housing options. The area experiences about 99 rainy days a year, so be prepared for some wet weather.
Probably not your spot if you prefer easy access to public transit, as only 0.7% of residents commute via public transport.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $973, which is quite manageable for most budgets.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $323,900, indicating a stable housing market.
- The community has a poverty rate of 28.3%, suggesting economic diversity.
- 55.8% of residents are renters, providing a dynamic housing landscape.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Arkansas, the property crime rate is 1,691.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 9.3% higher than the national average of 1,546.9. Although the violent crime rate at 541.9 per 100,000 is significantly higher than the national average of 325.3, it has seen a decline of 17.9% since 2022.
- Violent crime: 541.9 per 100k vs. national 325.3, with a 17.9% decrease since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,691.2 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, with a 32.5% decrease since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 34.9% since 2022, now at 6.8 per 100k.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Arkansas).
Schools & Higher Ed
Fayetteville has access to five postsecondary institutions, contributing to the educational landscape of the area.
- Career Academy of Hair Design-Fayetteville
- Paul Mitchell the School-Arkansas
- University of Arkansas
- Career Academy of Hair Design (Springdale)
- Northwest Technical Institute (Springdale)
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES & College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Fayetteville experiences an annual precipitation of 59.6 inches across about 99 rainy days. The area has a mild climate, with limited snowfall of just 0.3 inches per year. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy several parks and recreational areas.
- Lake Fayetteville Park - 4.7 stars (2,433 reviews)
- Wilson Park - 4.7 stars (1,856 reviews)
- Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park - 4.8 stars (1,376 reviews)
- Gulley Park - 4.7 stars (1,174 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Washington County, the unemployment rate stands at 3.2%, with a labor force of 142,414. This translates to about 137,904 employed individuals, indicating a healthy local economy.
- Unemployment rate: 3.2% as of December 2025
- Employed: 137,904
- Labor force: 142,414
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.