Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Little Rock, AR
Thinking about moving to Little Rock, AR? With a population of just over 200,000, Little Rock offers affordable living—median home prices are $207,000 and average rents are around $1,040. Commute times are short, averaging 19 minutes, and the city enjoys a mild climate with 61% sunny days each year. While crime rates are higher than average, residents appreciate strong healthcare options, diverse education choices, and the city’s welcoming Southern vibe. Explore cost of living, schools, and more below to plan your Little Rock move with confidence.
Demographics - Little Rock, AR
Demographics - Little Rock, AR
Little Rock is home to about 202,000 residents and features a fairly balanced age profile with a median age of 37.1 years. The city has a diverse community, with nearly half identifying as White and 41% as Black, and about 7.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and blend of cultures make it an inviting destination for newcomers.
Population:
202,591
Density:
1,650 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.1
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
47.5%
Black:
41.0%
Asian:
2.8%
Others:
8.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Little Rock, AR?
Living in Little Rock is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $207,000 and average rents around $1,040 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and individuals. Residents also benefit from reasonable utility costs and moderate state income taxes.
Median House Value:
$207,000
Gross Rent:
$1,040
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,470
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,330
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.9
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
72.0
Utilities:
95.4
Transportation:
98.1
Health Care:
89.7
Miscellaneous:
91.5
Crime
Is Little Rock, AR a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Little Rock are higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 1,421 per 100,000 and a property crime risk of 1 in 19. While it’s important to be aware of safety considerations, many neighborhoods offer a strong sense of community and ongoing local initiatives aim to improve public security. Newcomers should research specific areas to find the best fit for their needs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,421
Property Crimes Per 100k:
5,221
Crime Index:
6,642
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 70
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 19
Weather
What is the weather like in Little Rock, AR year-round?
Little Rock enjoys a mild climate with hot summers reaching highs of 93°F and winters averaging above freezing. The city receives about 50 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunny days 61% of the year. The pleasant spring and fall seasons make outdoor activities popular among locals.
Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
52°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
93°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
50.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents of Little Rock experience a median household income of approximately $57,000, with a 16.2% poverty rate and an unemployment rate of 4.6%. Most people commute less than 20 minutes to work, and the community values education, as nearly 90% hold a high school diploma or higher. The area’s cost-effective living and friendly neighborhoods foster a welcoming atmosphere.
Median Income:
$36,900
Household Income:
$56,929
Family Income:
$70,805
Per Capita Income:
$33,051
Income Male:
$43,700
Income Female:
$36,400
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$1,040
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
19.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
36.0%
Education
How are the schools in Little Rock, AR?
Education in Little Rock is diverse, with public schools like Central High and Forest Park Elementary, as well as private options such as Little Rock Christian Academy. The city is also home to higher education institutions like the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and Philander Smith College. Families benefit from a range of educational opportunities and student-focused environments.
Public Schools
Name:
Central High School
Street:
1500 S Park St
Phone:
501-447-1400
Students:
2,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Forest Park Elementary School
Street:
1600 N Tyler St
Phone:
501-447-3400
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Private Schools
Name:
Little Rock Christian Academy
Street:
19010 Cantrell Rd
Phone:
501-868-9822
Students:
1,400
Colleges
Name:
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
City:
Little Rock
State:
AR
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
8,300
Name:
Philander Smith College
City:
Little Rock
State:
AR
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Little Rock offers robust healthcare options, including major hospitals like UAMS Medical Center and Baptist Health Medical Center, both providing comprehensive emergency services. The city has a strong healthcare workforce, with 3.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% health insurance coverage. Access to quality medical care is a distinct advantage for local families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UAMS Medical Center
Address:
4301 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone:
(501) 686-7000
Type:
General & Teaching Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Baptist Health Medical Center-Little Rock
Address:
9601 Baptist Health Dr, Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone:
(501) 202-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.1%
Health Care Index:
73.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Little Rock, AR?
The Little Rock housing market is accessible, with median home prices at $207,000 and a rental vacancy rate of 8.2%. Homeownership is common, with 54% of residents owning their homes, and the market has seen a modest appreciation rate of nearly 4% over the past year. Renters can expect average two-bedroom rates around $1,040, making the city appealing for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$207,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,040
Owner Occupied Rate:
53.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Little Rock residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration’s Office of Motor Vehicle, conveniently located in the city center. The office provides a full range of DMV services with accessible contact options and an informative website. Newcomers can easily manage their driving needs upon arrival.
State:
Arkansas
Department:
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration - Office of Motor Vehicle
Address:
1900 W 7th St, Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone:
501-682-4692
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.