What to know when moving to Fort Smith, AR
Fort Smith at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 55.3% of residents are renters and median household income is $42,568.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $837, making housing relatively affordable.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 23.9%, economic challenges are present.
- Commute:
- Only 0.4% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $837/month in rent.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Fort Smith has a population of about 19,966, and 55.3% are renters, indicating a strong rental market. The area has an education rate where only 21.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, which may appeal to those seeking a more relaxed educational environment. However, the poverty rate of 23.9% shows that economic challenges exist, which can influence local opportunities and services.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a highly educated community since only 21.1% hold a bachelor's degree.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $837, while the median owner-occupied home value is $113,200.
- The community has a poverty rate of 23.9%, which reflects economic conditions.
- Only 0.4% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Renter percentage is 55.3%, showing a significant portion of the population is renting.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for Arkansas shows that property crime is at a state annual rate of 1,691.2 per 100,000 residents, which is 9.3% higher than the national average. Violent crime is significantly higher in Arkansas at a rate of 541.9 per 100,000, which is 66.6% above the national average.
- Violent crime: Arkansas has an annual rate of 541.9 per 100,000 vs. the national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime: The state rate is 1,691.2 per 100,000, compared to 1,546.9 nationally.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate has decreased by 34.9% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Arkansas).
Schools & Higher Ed
Fort Smith has access to 6 postsecondary institutions, including:
- University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
- Academy of Salon and Spa
- Arkansas Colleges of Health Education
- Career Academy of Hair Design - Fort Smith
- Designer Barber & Stylist School
- Designer Barber & Stylist School -
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES + College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
While climate data is unavailable, Fort Smith has several parks and outdoor spots that make for great outings:
- Fort Smith National Historic Site - 4.7 (2432 reviews)
- Creekmore Park - 4.5 (1402 reviews)
- Ben Geren Regional Park - 4.6 (1264 reviews)
- Parrot Island Waterpark - 4.2 (1425 reviews)
- United States Marshals Museum - 4.7 (754 reviews)
Source: Google Places API.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Sebastian County, the job market shows a total employment of 57,809 with an unemployment rate of 4.3% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 4.3% (December 2025)
- Employment: 57,809
- Labor force: 60,395
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.