Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Central City, AR
Considering a move to Central City, AR? Home to around 11,143 residents, this friendly community offers a low cost of living with median home prices at $128,000 and average rents of $740. Commutes are short, averaging about 20 minutes, and you'll enjoy 58% sunny days each year. While property crime rates are somewhat elevated, Central City features convenient access to schools and nearby hospitals, making it an affordable choice for families and individuals seeking a small-town lifestyle in Arkansas.
Demographics - Central City, AR
Demographics - Central City, AR
Central City, AR, has a population of just over 11,000, featuring a predominantly White community with a median age of nearly 38 years. The city offers a balanced gender ratio and a small but present multicultural population, with about 6.5% of residents speaking languages other than English at home. Its moderate population density supports a friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
11,143
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.8
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.0%
Black:
1.8%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
8.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Central City, AR?
Central City boasts an affordable cost of living with a median home value of $128,000 and average rent at $740 per month. The city's cost of living index is well below the national average, making it a budget-friendly option for families and individuals. Utilities and everyday expenses are also reasonably priced, helping residents stretch their incomes further.
Median House Value:
$128,000
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,340
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,025
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$365
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
64.5
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
91.7
Health Care:
89.8
Miscellaneous:
88.4
Crime
Is Central City, AR a safe place to live?
Residents of Central City experience a moderate level of crime, with property crime rates higher than the national average and a 1 in 234 chance of being a victim of violent crime. While this means taking typical safety precautions is wise, many neighborhoods maintain a strong sense of community. The overall crime index suggests that while crime exists, it is manageable with vigilance.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
427
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,460
Crime Index:
2,887
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 234
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Central City, AR year-round?
Central City enjoys a mild climate with warm summers averaging highs in the low 90s and winters that rarely dip below freezing. The city receives nearly 48 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine about 58% of the year, making it appealing for those who enjoy a variety of seasonal weather. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and comfortable outdoor living.
Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
49°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
69°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
The community in Central City has a median household income of about $40,800, with a noticeable portion of residents living below the poverty line. Most adults are high school graduates, and the typical commute is under 20 minutes. While public transportation usage is minimal, the area is known for its approachable, close-knit neighborhoods.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$40,800
Family Income:
$49,200
Per Capita Income:
$21,900
Income Male:
$36,200
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
21.5%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
19.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.1%
Bachelors or More:
17.0%
Education
How are the schools in Central City, AR?
Central City offers a range of educational opportunities, from local public and private schools to nearby colleges like the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith just 8 miles away. Small class sizes in public schools foster personalized attention, while higher education options are easily accessible within a short drive. Families benefit from a solid foundation for learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Central City Elementary School
Street:
1400 Hwy 22
Phone:
479-783-3615
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.4
Name:
Lavaca High School
Street:
311 Holly Street, Lavaca
Phone:
479-674-5612
Students:
325
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Private Schools
Name:
Immaculate Conception School
Street:
223 S 14th St, Fort Smith
Phone:
479-783-6798
Students:
410
Colleges
Name:
University of Arkansas – Fort Smith
City:
Fort Smith
State:
AR
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
5,600
Name:
Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus
City:
Ozark
State:
AR
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
2,100
Healthcare
Central City residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Mercy Hospital Fort Smith and Baptist Health-Fort Smith nearby, both providing emergency services. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 89% of residents covered by health insurance, most healthcare needs are well-supported in the area. The local healthcare index underscores generally reliable medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Hospital Fort Smith
Address:
7301 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72903
Phone:
(479) 314-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Baptist Health-Fort Smith
Address:
1001 Towson Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901
Phone:
(479) 441-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.6%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Central City, AR?
The housing market in Central City is accessible, with a median home price of $128,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $740. Homeownership is common, with about 58% of residents owning their homes, and vacancy rates are moderate. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates make it a stable choice for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$128,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
DMV services for Central City are provided by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration at the Fort Smith Revenue Office on Garrison Avenue. Residents can handle vehicle registration, licensing, and other motor vehicle needs locally. For more information or to schedule an appointment, the office maintains an accessible website and contact number.
State:
Arkansas
Department:
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration – Revenue Office
Address:
616 Garrison Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901
Phone:
479-783-0279
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.