Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Van Buren, AR
Thinking about moving to Van Buren, AR? This friendly city of 23,218 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $165,000 and average rents at $840. Residents enjoy a quick average commute of 19.7 minutes, plenty of sunny days (63% each year), and access to local schools and healthcare. While property crime rates are a bit higher than national averages, Van Buren boasts a welcoming small-town feel, low cost of living, and a mild southern climate—making it a great option for families and newcomers alike.
Demographics - Van Buren, AR
Demographics - Van Buren, AR
Van Buren, home to about 23,218 residents, features a moderately youthful median age of 36.5 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, with notable diversity and nearly 9% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its population density of just over 1,000 per square mile offers a blend of small-town comfort and suburban convenience.
Population:
23,218
Density:
1,030 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.5
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
78.2%
Black:
2.4%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
18.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Van Buren, AR?
Van Buren offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $165,000 and average rents around $840. The cost of living index sits well below the national average, making everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation manageable for most residents. State income taxes are moderate, providing further financial relief for families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$165,000
Gross Rent:
$840
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.4
Grocery:
89.3
Housing:
68.5
Utilities:
92.2
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
89.1
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Van Buren, AR a safe place to live?
While Van Buren enjoys a friendly, small-town atmosphere, property crime rates are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 46 chance annually. Violent crime is less common, at a rate of 431 incidents per 100,000 people, offering relative safety compared to larger cities. Residents are encouraged to take typical precautions to protect property and belongings.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
431
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,170
Crime Index:
2,601
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 232
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Van Buren, AR year-round?
Residents experience a mild southern climate, with winter lows around 29°F and summer highs reaching 93°F. The city gets a generous 63% of sunny days each year and about 47 inches of rainfall, supporting a lush, green landscape. Seasonal changes are noticeable but generally comfortable, making outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.

Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
50°F

Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
74°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
93°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
76°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Van Buren's neighborhoods are characterized by a median household income of $51,300 and a low unemployment rate of 3.8%. Most residents commute about 20 minutes to work, and the community maintains a strong educational foundation, with over 85% of adults holding a high school diploma. The area has a modest poverty rate and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Median Income:
$29,400
Household Income:
$51,300
Family Income:
$59,200
Per Capita Income:
$23,600
Income Male:
$41,800
Income Female:
$31,700
Poverty Rate:
15.8%
Non English Speakers:
8.7%
Rent:
$840
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
19.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.6%
Bachelors or More:
18.8%
Education
How are the schools in Van Buren, AR?
Van Buren offers a range of educational options, including well-rated public schools such as Van Buren High School, which serves about 1,400 students with favorable class sizes. Private schooling and higher education opportunities are available nearby, including the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith just eight miles away. The city's schools are known for supporting student success and community involvement.

Public Schools
Name:
Van Buren High School
Street:
2001 Pointer Trail
Phone:
479-474-6821
Students:
1,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Name:
Butterfield Trail Middle School
Street:
310 North 28th Street
Phone:
479-474-6820
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5

Private Schools
Name:
Union Christian Academy
Street:
4201 Windsor Dr, Fort Smith, AR
Phone:
479-783-7327
Students:
320

Colleges
Name:
University of Arkansas - Fort Smith
City:
Fort Smith
State:
AR
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
5,700
Healthcare
Healthcare in Van Buren is accessible, with major facilities like Baptist Health-Van Buren providing emergency services and general care. The city has about 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and 86% health insurance coverage, ensuring most people receive the care they need. Additional specialized services are available nearby, supporting the health and wellbeing of the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Alma Health & Rehabilitation
Address:
401 Heather Lane, Alma, AR 72921
Phone:
(479) 632-4343
Type:
Rehabilitation & Nursing
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Baptist Health-Van Buren
Address:
209 Pointer Trail W, Van Buren, AR 72956
Phone:
(479) 474-3401
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.2%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Van Buren, AR?
The housing market in Van Buren is attractive for both buyers and renters, with a median home price of $165,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $840. Homeownership rates are over 60%, and the area has seen steady appreciation, making it a solid investment for families. Rental vacancies are moderate, providing options for those seeking flexibility.
Median Home Price:
$165,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$840
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services in Van Buren are provided by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration at a conveniently located local office. Residents can handle vehicle registration, licensing, and other motor vehicle needs with ease. The office's helpful staff and accessible website make managing driving requirements straightforward.
State:
Arkansas
Department:
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration - Revenue Office
Address:
2216 Fayetteville Rd, Van Buren, AR 72956
Phone:
(479) 474-6921
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.