Metro areas in Arkansas: income, rent and home values
Arkansas has 7 metropolitan areas with annual Census data, led by Memphis, TN with 1.3 million residents. Household incomes are highest in Fayetteville, AR ($86,840). Renters spend the smallest share of income in Fayetteville, AR (25.8%) and the largest in Hot Springs, AR (35.3%). The fastest-growing metro since 2021 is Fayetteville, AR (+11.3%).
| Metro area | Population | Median income | Median rent | Home value | Rent / income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis, TN | 1,343,277 | $70,884 | $1,330 | $280,700 | 32.9% |
| Little Rock, AR | 779,165 | $72,308 | $1,171 | $248,700 | 28.5% |
| Fayetteville, AR | 621,366 | $86,840 | $1,330 | $364,300 | 25.8% |
| Fort Smith, AR | 234,140 | $62,830 | $937 | $219,700 | 28.3% |
| Texarkana, TX | 146,496 | $58,415 | $1,002 | $203,500 | 28.1% |
| Jonesboro, AR | 139,440 | $60,959 | $1,064 | $216,000 | 27.3% |
| Hot Springs, AR | 99,695 | $59,320 | $1,063 | $265,800 | 35.3% |
Includes 3 metro areas that cross into neighboring states.
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Arkansas at a glance
What is the most affordable metro area in Arkansas for renters?+
Fayetteville, AR, where renters spend a median 25.8% of household income on rent (2025 Census data).
Which metro area in Arkansas has the highest income?+
Fayetteville, AR, with a median household income of $86,840 in 2025.
How many metro areas are in Arkansas?+
7 metropolitan statistical areas in Arkansas have annual Census estimates (population 65,000+).
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2025 1-year estimates (released September 2026), with 2024 and 2021 for trends. Figures are survey estimates with margins of error; small differences between metros may not be meaningful. Metro areas use the official Metropolitan Statistical Area boundaries. Compiled and analyzed by Metro Research. Methodology.