Discover 10 surprising facts about living in Arkansas—from affordable lakefront homes and world-class mountain biking to Hot Springs history, food culture, and more.
When people think about living in Arkansas, they usually picture beautiful mountains, lakes, and trails that give it the nickname “The Natural State.” But there’s so much more to know—some fun, some practical—that could surprise you if you’re considering moving here.
Hi, I’m Anthony Mosley, a real estate broker in Bentonville, Arkansas. In this guide, I’ll share 10 little-known facts about Arkansas that will give you a clearer picture of what life is really like here.
1. You Don’t Have to Pump Your Own Gas (in One Arkansas Town)
Yes, you read that right—there’s still a full-service gas station in Lonoke, Arkansas where someone will pump your gas, wash your windshield, and check your oil.
Outside of New Jersey (where self-service is actually illegal), this is a rare convenience. Plus, Arkansas consistently has some of the lowest gas prices in the U.S.
2. Affordable Lakefront Homes in Arkansas
Thinking of buying a home in Arkansas? Here’s good news: you can often find lakefront property under $400,000.
Hot Springs, Beaver Lake, and other areas offer waterfront homes at prices much lower than the national average. For comparison, the average lakefront property in Northwest Arkansas recently sold for about $965,000—still more affordable than similar homes in many other states.
3. Hot Springs National Park: Older Than Yellowstone
Arkansas is home to the oldest federally protected area in the United States—Hot Springs National Park, established in 1832.
With springs reaching up to 143°, it’s a historic spot where Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson, and even Al Capone once visited the bathhouses. It’s also considered the birthplace of spring baseball.
4. Arkansas Property Taxes Explained
Here’s a common misconception about living in Arkansas: the state does not collect a vehicle property tax. Instead, counties assess personal property taxes based on 20% of your car’s value, multiplied by the local millage rate.
Most of this money funds schools, which is why Northwest Arkansas is known for its top-rated school systems.
5. Arkansas is the Mountain Biking Capital of the World
If you love the outdoors, you’ll love that Bentonville, Arkansas, is known as the Mountain Biking Capital of the World.
With dozens of trails like Coler, Slaughter Pen, and the Back 40—plus nearby destinations like Devil’s Den State Park and Mount Nebo—you can ride year-round. Unlike many states, you don’t have to drive for hours to reach world-class trails; they’re right in town, surrounded by restaurants and coffee shops.
6. Arkansas Weather: Four True Seasons
One of the pros of living in Arkansas is experiencing all four seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures above 100°. Fall brings stunning colors, spring delivers plenty of rain, and winters are mild with the occasional snow or ice storm.
Fun fact: Arkansas averages about 40 tornadoes per year, so weather here can be unpredictable!
7. A Surprisingly Diverse Food Scene
Arkansas has an evolving food culture that goes far beyond Southern comfort food. You’ll find Vietnamese pho, Indian curries, Korean barbecue, and Latin American flavors.
And here’s something you probably didn’t know: cheese dip was invented in Little Rock, Arkansas, which now hosts the annual World Cheese Dip Championship.
8. Mining for Diamonds in Arkansas
One of the most unique experiences when living in Arkansas is visiting Crater of Diamonds State Park—the only public diamond mine in the U.S. You can dig, search, and keep whatever you find. More than 35,000 diamonds have been discovered there since it became a state park in 1972.
9. Arkansas Has a Thriving Arts Scene
Arkansas might surprise you with its hidden art culture.
In Bentonville, you’ll find the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, one of the most stunning museums in the country. Little Rock is home to the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, while Hot Springs features galleries, sculptures, and handcrafted jewelry.
Arkansas truly blends small-town charm with world-class culture.
10. The Internet is Better Than You Think
A lot of people assume rural Arkansas means poor internet, but that’s not the case. Arkansas broadband coverage has expanded significantly in recent years.
Populated areas like Bentonville, Little Rock, and Jonesboro have reliable service, and rural areas can use providers like Starlink satellite internet.
Speed Round: Fun Arkansas Facts You Didn’t Know
- The Buffalo National River was the first national river in the U.S. (1972).
- Alma, Arkansas, calls itself the Spinach Capital of the World.
- Walmart was founded in Arkansas (first store opened in Rogers in 1962).
- Hot Springs hosts the world’s shortest St. Patrick’s Day parade at just 98 feet long.
- The state is legally pronounced Arkansas—not “Ar-Kansas.”
Final Thoughts: Should You Move to Arkansas?
From affordable housing and a growing food scene to outdoor adventure and culture, Arkansas has a lot more to offer than many people realize.
If you’re considering moving to Arkansas or Northwest Arkansas, I’d love to help.
📲 Ready to Explore Northwest Arkansas?
Whether you’re still dreaming or ready to pack boxes, I’m here to help.
I’m Anthony Mosley, your local guide to all things Bentonville real estate and relocation in Northwest Arkansas.
👉 Contact me today for a free consultation or home search:
📧 anthony@ignwa.com
📞 479 319-7229
🌐 anthonymosleyrealestate.com
📞 Let’s Connect
Let’s talk about your goals, budget, and timeline so we can make your move a smooth and successful one. Whether you’re headed to Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, or anywhere in Northwest Arkansas, I’m here to help.
Have questions or thinking about making a move to Bentonville or Northwest Arkansas?
Reach out anytime—or watch the full video for visuals and charts on my YouTube Channel.
— Anthony Mosley, Real Estate Broker, Bentonville, Arkansas