First post here. I work in insurance and With a population of 89,496, Fort Smith is a smaller city. Average temperature is around 63--F, so the weather is moderate. The unemployment rate is 4.1%, which is about average. There's a real sense of community in certain neighborhoods. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Anyone in a similar situation? Thanks! It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.
28 upvotes
6 Replies
Nova Scott
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 7 years ago from Miami and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 4-bed in Riverside. It's improving for what you get.
Jobs: The market is growing right now, especially in engineering. If you're in construction you might struggle.
People: Generally improving. It took about 12 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: hit or miss. Tons of options if you like craft beer.
Hope this helps!.
37 upvotes
Gloria M.
it depends on the neighborhood
35 upvotes
brooks_chef
My experience has been mostly positive. I'm still on the fence after all this time. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, Give it a chance - it might surprise you..
31 upvotes
Katherine M.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 7 years. Moved from Houston for family. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is tough. We bought in 2020 at k and it's now worth up a bit than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. The market is competitive but not impossible.
**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. finance is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are affordable for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
there are trade-offs but the good outweighs the bad. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have national forests within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are tough. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Not a lot of cultural diversity. Far from beaches/mountains. And healthcare can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For young professionals, I'd say this is a 7/10. It's not for everyone but it works for us.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
24 upvotes
Sebastian Parker
Hot take but I'm still on the fence after all this time. I know a lot of people disagree but after 2 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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