Safest Places to Live in Arkansas

Arkansas offers natural beauty, affordability, and strong communities, making it a great place to live. While some areas have higher crime rates, many towns provide safety, active communities, and reliable public services.

In 2024, the state reported a violent crime rate of 6.9 per 1,000 and a property crime rate of 25.5 per 1,000, with only 44% of residents feeling safe. Arkansas also faces challenges with natural disasters, healthcare, and education, impacting overall quality of life.

This guide explores the safest places to live in Arkansas in 2025, covering crime statistics, disaster preparedness, and key factors to consider when choosing a secure home.

Here’s a detailed look at some of the safest cities in Arkansas, based on Arkansas crime rates and other key safety factors.

A charming small town in Central Arkansas with low crime rates and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for families and retirees.

• Violent Crimes: 0.7 per 1,000 residents

• Property Crimes: 0.7 per 1,000 residents

• Population: ~5,500

Why It’s Safe:

Greenbrier consistently ranks among the low-crime cities in Arkansas, thanks to its active law enforcement and strong sense of community. Located in Central Arkansas, Greenbrier is known for its excellent schools, affordable housing, and small-town charm.

Best For: Families and retirees seeking a quiet, affordable place with low crime rates.

Nestled in Northwest Arkansas, this peaceful and affluent suburb offers low crime, excellent schools, and a welcoming environment for families.

• Violent Crimes: 0.8 per 1,000 residents

• Property Crimes: 3.1 per 1,000 residents

• Population: ~5,000

Why It’s Safe:

Cave Springs, located in Northwest Arkansas, is one of the safest and most affluent communities in the state. With its low-crime neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and strong local economy, Cave Springs is a top choice for families and professionals.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and retirees looking for safe suburbs in Arkansas near job opportunities.

A family-friendly town near Fort Smith known for its low crime rates, great schools, and a tight-knit, community-oriented atmosphere.

• Violent Crimes: 1.3 per 1,000 residents

• Property Crimes: 3.7 per 1,000 residents

• Population: ~9,400

Why It’s Safe:

Located near Fort Smith, Greenwood offers a family-friendly atmosphere, low crime rates, and an excellent school district. This best small town in Arkansas is perfect for raising children, with its many parks, sports facilities, and tight-knit community.

Best For: Families and those looking for a safe small town with strong schools and affordable housing.

A growing Little Rock suburb with low crime, affordable housing, and a quiet, family-friendly setting perfect for commuters and young families.

• Violent Crimes: 0.7 per 1,000 residents

• Property Crimes: Data not specified

• Population: ~4,200

Why It’s Safe:

Austin, a growing suburb of Little Rock, is known for its low crime rate, high-rated schools, and small-town feel. As one of the best places to live in Arkansas, Austin offers easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a quiet, family-friendly environment.

Best For: Families, young professionals, and commuters working in Little Rock suburbs.

A scenic community in the Ozark Mountains, popular among retirees and outdoor enthusiasts for its safety, lakes, and hiking trails.

• Violent Crimes: Data not specified

• Property Crimes: Data not specified

• Population: ~29,000

Why It’s Safe:

Bella Vista, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, is a scenic community known for its low-crime neighborhoods and outdoor activities in Arkansas. With lakes, golf courses, hiking trails, and an active retiree population, Bella Vista offers both security and a high quality of life.

Best For: Retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle in Northwest Arkansas.

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Although Arkansas is landlocked, it is still vulnerable to extreme weather, including storms and tornadoes. If you’re looking for towns with the least risk of hurricane-related damage, consider the following:

Located in Northwest Arkansas, Fayetteville is far from the Gulf of Mexico, reducing its exposure to hurricane-related storms and flooding.

Home to Walmart’s headquarters, Bentonville is another safe option, as it lies in a region that is less prone to severe storm damage.

In Northeast Arkansas, Jonesboro is far enough from hurricane impact zones while still offering urban conveniences and strong infrastructure.

While Central Arkansas can experience severe weather, some Little Rock suburbs offer safer locations with better emergency preparedness plans.

Arkansas offers a blend of safety, affordability, and natural beauty. The state's low cost of living, coupled with its low crime rates, makes it an attractive option for many. Additionally, the presence of major corporations like Walmart and Tyson Foods contributes to a robust job market. Before making a move, consider visiting the state to experience its communities firsthand and determine if it aligns with your lifestyle and needs.

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But if you're also keeping a close eye on your budget, don't worry—we’ve got you. Our guide to the most affordable places to live in Arkansas shows you where safety and savings go hand in hand.

And if you're still weighing your options, wondering whether to rent or buy, you're not the only one asking that question right now. Our Rent vs. Buy comparison breaks down the pros, cons, and long-term trade-offs—so you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and a plan that fits your life.

Greenbrier is recognized as one of the safest cities in Arkansas, boasting low crime rates.

Arkansas has several cities with crime rates below the national average, offering safe living environments.

Safety in Arkansas is typically assessed using parameters such as violent crime rates, property crime rates, and the presence of law enforcement agencies.

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Discover how our all-in-one homebuying platform can increase your buying power and put money back in your pocket. Start your journey today!

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