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lake when moving to arkansas

Your Ultimate Guide to Moving to Arkansas: 13 Things You Must Know

Let’s talk turkey about the great state of Arkansas, or as the locals would say, ‘Arkanssaw’. It’s not just the birthplace of the retail giant Walmart or the former home of President Bill Clinton. Oh, no. There’s so much more. So, if you are considering on moving to Arkansas, read on.

Imagine a place where the cost of living doesn’t leave you checking your pockets for spare change, a place where Mother Nature decided to showcase her best work, a place that offers four distinct, beautiful seasons. Yes, you guessed it. That’s Arkansas!

Tucked away in the South Central region of the United States, Arkansas is a warm embrace of southern hospitality wrapped in a blanket of natural beauty. In fact, it’s grown so rapidly, it’s currently one of the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the US. 

Folks are drawn to its quality of life, the range of outdoor activities, and of course, the affordable living. But before you pack your bags and hop on the next flight, let’s delve into some of the finer details you need to know when moving to Arkansas.

Here is the List of 13 Things to Consider When Moving to Arkansas

Before you Arrive in Arkansas

Alright, buckle up, partner. We’re going on a journey. The destination? Your impending move to Arkansas! But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s talk about what you need to do beforehand.

Choosing a reputable moving company is paramount, unless you’re Superman and can lift a couch with one hand while holding your coffee in the other. Just remember that your moving company should be like your favorite pizza – reliable, able to deliver on time, and always leaving you satisfied. Consider how long they’ve been in business, their website’s professionalism (No Comic Sans, please!), and of course, customer reviews.

Next stop on the checklist: mail forwarding. Because you don’t want your grandma’s holiday cards delivered to your old place, right? USPS offers a mail forwarding service that’s cheaper than your morning latte. This handy service will ensure all your bills, letters, and those weird catalogs you never subscribed to, find their way to your new Arkansas home.

Lastly, channel your inner Marie Kondo and purge anything that doesn’t “spark joy.” Use your move as a chance to declutter. Sell items online or donate them to charity. Just remember to keep your favorite teddy bear. Arkansas might be a new place, but everyone needs a little bit of old comfort.

What are the First Steps to Take When Arriving in Arkansas?

First impressions are important. So, let’s make sure your first few steps in Arkansas are more of a smooth waltz and less of a clumsy stumble.

Start by changing your address. Inform the DMV and all relevant authorities, ensuring you won’t have any unwanted surprises later on. If you plan to exercise your democratic muscles in Arkansas, make sure to register to vote, too.

Next, trade in your old driver’s license for a shiny new one. Arkansas expects you to do this within 30 days of moving. It’s like swapping your old favorite jeans for a new pair – a bit uncomfortable at first, but you’ll get used to it. If you don’t do it, well, let’s just say it’s better to avoid the hassle.

Finally, don’t forget about health and home insurance. Arkansas offers options aplenty. After all, your health and your new home in Arkansas are investments that deserve good protection.

when moving to arkansas its state flag

Best Places to Live in Arkansas

Just like a perfect coffee, Arkansas is filled with a mix of great flavors. Families fear not. Bentonville is a fantastic brew for you. Offering great housing, top-rated schools, and a plethora of recreational activities, it’s like living in a Norman Rockwell painting.

If you’re flying solo, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Fayetteville, the home of the University of Arkansas, is a cultural espresso shot with a heap of educational institutions, cafes, and restaurants.

Housing and Renting in Arkansas

Moving to Arkansas without a place to live is like forgetting to bring marshmallows on a camping trip. It can be done, but it’s not recommended.

If you’re looking for an apartment, websites like Zillow, and Apartments.com are your best friends. Think of them as your real estate matchmakers.

Now, if you’re looking for a house, Realtor, and Century21 will play cupid for you. Just remember to keep an open mind and heart.

Whichever route you choose, remember that your home should be a place where you feel comfortable, safe, and able to belt out your favorite songs in the shower without judgment. Happy house hunting!

Finding a Job in Arkansas

So, you’re moving to Arkansas and now you’re looking for that perfect job – the peanut butter to your jelly, the yin to your yang. Now, whether you’re into tech or have a knack for selling knick-knacks, Arkansas has got you covered.

LinkedIn and Indeed are the fairy godparents of the job-hunting world. These platforms can provide you with a host of job listings tailored to your specific skills and experience. Alternatively, you can look up companies you’re interested in and check their careers page. Remember, though, just like dating, don’t come across as too desperate.

Arkansas is a bustling hub for various industries, from healthcare to retail and manufacturing. Companies like Walmart and Tyson Foods have their headquarters here. So if you fancy sharing your lunch break with the corporate bigwigs, you’re in luck!

On a side note, don’t forget to update your resume and cover letter before hitting that ‘apply’ button. You wouldn’t go to a party without dressing up, right?

Education in Arkansas

Education in Arkansas is like the state’s famous cheese dip – diverse and satisfying. From primary schools to universities, Arkansas has an array of quality education options that can help you or your little ones grow and succeed.

For families, greatschools.org is an invaluable resource. It’s like Yelp, but for schools. It helps you find and compare schools in your area, offering details on everything from academic performance to extracurricular activities. It even has reviews, so you can see if that AP Calculus teacher is really as tough as they say.

For those of you seeking higher education, Arkansas is home to several top-notch institutions. The University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, and Hendrix College are just a few examples. It’s like being in a candy store, but instead of sweets, you’re choosing the future of your education.

Healthcare in Arkansas

When moving to a new place, it’s essential to know the healthcare scene. After all, health is wealth, right? And if we’re talking wealth, let’s make sure we’re investing wisely.

Arkansas offers a range of healthcare options, from large hospitals to small clinics. If you need to find a healthcare provider, websites like Zocdoc can be your trusty sidekick. 

They’re the Batman to your Robin in the search for the right healthcare provider. You can search by specialty, location, insurance, and even languages spoken.

For those with prescriptions, transfer them to a local pharmacy. Walgreens and CVS are common and convenient but don’t discount local pharmacies. They might not have the flashy logos, but they often have the same medications and a heaping dose of charm.

Cost of Living in Arkansas

Living in Arkansas is like finding a designer label at a discount store – you get a whole lot of bang for your buck. The cost of living here is about 13% lower than the national average. Yes, you read that right, and no, it’s not a typo!

But remember, while the overall cost of living in Arkansas is lower, prices can fluctuate between cities and rural areas. And while we all love a good deal, it’s important to ensure the cheaper cost of living doesn’t compromise your quality of life. So, shop wisely!

Arkansas Income and Expense Table Comparison

 Little Rock, ARUnited States Average
Income$48,463$61,937
Housing$137,200$239,200
Food$2,994$3,240
Healthcare$5,411$6,033
Utilities$1,915$2,097
Transportation$4,375$5,270
Misc$2,712$3,159
(Source: bestplaces.net)  

Outdoor Activities in Arkansas

Calling all nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and people who just can’t sit still – Arkansas is your haven! The Natural State is its nickname for good reason. It’s like the great outdoors decided to have a party and made Arkansas its venue.

From hiking trails to fishing spots, wildlife reserves to national parks, Arkansas is a veritable playground for any outdoor adventurer. The Buffalo National River is a must-visit for those who love canoeing or kayaking. It’s like the Monaco Grand Prix, but for water sports and minus the million-dollar yachts.

And let’s not forget about the state parks. With 52 of them sprinkled around the state like confetti, you’re sure to find one that tickles your adventure bone. A trip to Crater of Diamonds State Park might even make you a diamond digger for a day!

top breakfast view when moving to arkansas

Food Scene in Arkansas

Arkansas isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to dine. Get ready to bid adieu to your diet plans because the food scene in Arkansas is as tempting as an unattended chocolate cake.

From food trucks offering mouthwatering street eats to upscale dining spots with Michelin aspirations, Arkansas knows how to tantalize your taste buds.

Get your BBQ fix at joints like Jones Bar-B-Q Diner, one of the oldest BBQ restaurants in the world. Or if your sweet tooth calls succumb to the siren call of the Possum Pie – a layered dessert that’s far tastier than its name suggests. Trust me, it’s a slice of heaven minus the possum.

Also, get ready for the state’s renowned cheese dip. Yes, it’s a thing here and no, it’s not just melted cheese. It’s like the superstar of your nacho dreams.

Moving Around Arkansas

Now that we’ve covered the what and where of Arkansas, let’s talk about the ‘how’. Moving around Arkansas isn’t a scene from Mad Max: Fury Road. You don’t need a souped-up monster truck; a regular car will suffice.

Arkansas isn’t overly congested, so you can expect less traffic than in larger cities. It’s almost like the vehicles respect your personal space. Also, the public transport system in the urban areas is reliable, featuring buses and trolleys.

For those with a green conscience, biking is popular in cities like Fayetteville and Little Rock. Plus, who doesn’t like a little wind in their hair?

And remember, even if you’re using GPS, keep a map handy. Not just because technology can betray you, but because reading a map is a lost art form, like crafting a perfect sandwich or making a mixtape. So, channel your inner explorer and hit the Arkansas roads!

The Eclectic Music Scene in Arkansas

Welcome to the land where music, culture, and soul converge – Arkansas! Arkansas’ music scene is as diverse as its landscapes, with everything from blues and jazz to bluegrass and rock-n-roll. 

The cities echo with harmonies and melodies that will soothe your soul and put a rhythm in your step. And let’s not forget about the numerous music festivals and live music venues dotted across the state. It’s like the state is constantly throwing a music festival and everyone’s invited!

Ever heard of the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Helena? It’s legendary! Or the Wakarusa Music Festival in Ozark, which, by the way, is not just a Netflix show. 

And for those who like to mix some learning with their tunes, the Old State House Museum hosts a ‘Second Friday Art Night’ where you can explore local art while jiving to some live music.

Arkansas’ Thriving Art and Culture Scene

Art enthusiasts moving to Arkansas are in for a treat. The state houses a vibrant art scene that mirrors its rich history and diverse culture. 

From internationally acclaimed museums like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, which can make even the ‘Mona Lisa’ blush, to local art festivals and craft fairs, Arkansas offers a plethora of opportunities for art lovers to indulge in.

Ever wondered what the cavemen painted on their walls? Head to Arkansas’ numerous historical sites and discover ancient Native American rock art.

Or visit the towns of Eureka Springs and Hot Springs, where art isn’t just displayed, it’s lived. Here, art and life are like two peas in a pod – inseparable and enchanting.

Conclusion

In closing, when it comes to moving to Arkansas, there’s no place quite like it. Between its warm, welcoming communities, the breathtaking landscapes, and the affordable cost of living, Arkansas has a charm that’s hard to beat. 

This journey has taken us from knowing the best places to live, setting up utilities, getting around, to the fun facts about this wonderful state. Who knew Arkansas is North America’s only diamond-bearing state? Or the biggest rice producer among the 50 states?

Relocating, undoubtedly, is a big decision. It’s more than just moving your belongings; it’s about starting a new chapter of your life. So, it’s essential to be equipped with as much information as you can. Hopefully, this article has given you some invaluable insights into what it’s like moving to Arkansas, and you’re now ready to make the leap.

Remember, moving is not just about the destination, but the journey too. And who knows? This journey might just lead you to your own diamond in the rough! Arkansas, here you come!

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