Of all the 50 wonderful states in the country, Arkansas has our hearts. In addition to being absolutely, spectacularly beautiful, it’s also a safe and sweet state to call home. While, of course, the Natural State has its share of crime, by and large, there are plenty of safe towns in Arkansas. Don’t believe us?

According to the most recent data from Safewise, the safest cities in Arkansas, robbery accounts for just 5% of the violent crime rate. That’s below the state’s average of 9% and the nation’s average of 22%. What’s more, 15 of the safest cities have violent crime rates that are well below the state, regional, and national averages. Add it all up, and the Natural State is a safe and wonderful place to live — and here are the safest places to live in Arkansas.

Please note, the safety of these towns was determined by the most current data from Safewise, as well as schools and crime information from each city, and are listed in no particular order.

1. Rogers, Arkansas
Rogers, AR, USA
Doug Wertman/Wikipedia
One of the fastest-growing Arkansas cities, Rogers rivals Bentonville as one of the nicest places to live in northwest Arkansas. The Rogers School District continues to perform well and is one of the state's bragging points, too.
2. Magnolia, Arkansas
Magnolia, AR 71753, USA
Billy Hathorn/Wikipedia
Known for its excellent network of local volunteer services, Magnolia (located in the southern part of the state with a population under 12,000 residents) also places education in high esteem, being the home of Southern Arkansas University. https://web.saumag.edu/social/2019/09/24/fun-things-to-do-on-campus/
3. Bentonville, Arkansas
Bentonville, AR, USA
Brandonrush/Wikipedia
The city of Bentonville, Arkansas, was founded in 1837 with a population of only 30 and incorporated in 1873 with a population of 500. Today, Bentonville remains a safe and welcoming environment for tourists and residents alike.
4. El Dorado, Arkansas
El Dorado, AR 71730, USA
Chris Litherland/Wikipedia
Located in Union County in the southern central portion of the state, El Dorado is one of the larger towns in this part of Arkansas. A highly education focused town, El Dorado is a good place to bring up the kids with more than 400 teachers and administrators working to meet the needs of all students. Over 50 percent of El Dorado's teachers and administrators hold advanced degrees. It's also a beautiful place to live; the South Arkansas Arboretum is nearby and is a can't-miss destination.
5. Prairie Grove, Arkansas
Prairie Grove, AR, USA
Brandonrush/Wikimedia
Located in Washington County, Prairie Grove has a small-town vibe that attracts families yet isn't far from the big-town amenities that are popping up all over northwest Arkansas. The town has an amazing parks system and lots of historical attractions of interest, too.
6. Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Siloam Springs, AR, USA
Brandonrush/Wikipedia
A mid-sized town in Arkansas, Siloam Springs still maintains its quirky small town charm with a diverse number of shops and restaurants for tourists and locals to safely enjoy. As for education, the town is home to John Brown University and the Siloam Springs School District has earned overall high marks on the GreatSchools ranking system.

Related Stories

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Hurts Donut In Arkansas

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Hurts Donut In Arkansas

 This Is The Most Arkansas Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

This Is The Most Arkansas Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

 Discover 7 Of Arkansas' Most Iconic Views On This Epic 5-Hour Road Trip

Discover 7 Of Arkansas' Most Iconic Views On This Epic 5-Hour Road Trip
7. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs, AR, USA
Photolitherland/Wikipedia
Widely known as a tourist town, the small population of Eureka Springs is a friendly populace that's practically perfect. Arkansas residents with an open mind and small-town spirit will feel very comfortable in this picturesque mountain town.
8. Mena, Arkansas
Mena, AR 71953, USA
Lauren Shufelberger/Wikipedia
Mena, located in the western part of the state in Polk County, has a population under 6,000 residents and is home to picturesque fall colors, outdoor destinations that attract tourists from all over, antique shops, and a friendly hometown feeling. What's not to love?
9. Harrison, Arkansas
Harrison, AR 72601, USA
Photolitherland/Wikipedia
Situated in the heart of the Ozark Mountains in Boone County, Harrison is known as a as a lodging, dining, and entertainment center for visitors to the Buffalo National River. Residents of Harrison are very genial and welcoming to tourists and new residents. Every year the Arkansas Hot Air Balloon State Championship showcases the wonders of hot air ballooning, putting the charm factor of this lovely Arkansas town over the top!
10. Cotter, Arkansas
Cotter, AR, USA
Archedamian/Wikipedia
Located in Baxter County, the small town of Cotter, Arkansas, only has a population of little over 900 residents. Despite its small-town status and comfortable north-central Arkansas location, Cotter is still strongly connected to travel as it's located near two separate commercial airports, Ozark Regional Airport and Flippin Municipal Airport. Students attend Cotter School District, including Cotter High School and Amanda Gist Elementary School. This small town is an absolute haven for trout fishing with numerous options. Cotter Trout Dock Guided Trout Fishing Tours is a great resource for both beginner and experienced enthusiasts, too.
11. Jasper, Arkansas
Jasper, AR 72641, USA
Photolitherland/Wikipedia
One of the Natural State's smallest yet most culturally important towns, Jasper is a dream of a place to visit. This tiny little locale has a population of just over 740 residents, leaving all of the big town worries out of sight and out of mind. Get to know all of your new neighbors at the historic Ozark Cafe while you're there!
12. Norfork, Arkansas
Norfork, AR, USA
Photolitherland/Wikipedia
Located in Baxter County, not much is heard about Norfork and the residents (population under 600) like it just fine that way! One of the oldest settlements in northern Arkansas, Norfork is small yet big on education. Norfork High School has been nationally recognized as a Silver Medalist and nationally ranked on the best High Schools Report developed by U.S. News & World Report. A great place to experience some of that history is at the Jacob Wolf House.

So, what do you think of our list of safe towns in Arkansas? Did your locale make the list? If not, no worries — Arkansas is a fantastic place to live that’s full of wonderful places to raise a family and establish a life. The Natural State is a safe and beautiful place to live, and we simply adore it!

For some of the most beautiful places to explore in the Arkansas, be sure to read our nature lovers guide to Arkansas’ natural beauty.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Safest Towns In Arkansas

Sarah | May 16, 2021

What are some of the prettiest towns in Arkansas?

We simply adore Eureka Springs, a hidden gem in Arkansas that has a lot to offer. With historic sites, beautiful outdoor escapes, and amazing Victorian architecture, this tiny-town destination has something for everyone in the family. You may not have thought about Arkansas for your next road trip, but allow us to change your mind! For starters, it's stunningly beautiful. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is full of scenic views. That's because the Ozark region is well-known for its natural springs, glorious waterfalls, lakes, and caves. Then, there's the super-charming downtown district. Eureka Springs features a quaint downtown lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants that attract both tourists and locals. All around Eureka you can find traces of Victorian architecture that is worth a snapshot or two. Plus, of course, amazing restaurants, wonderful local businesses, and some of the kindest people you'll ever meet! As a bonus, it's also one of the safest towns in Arkansas.

What are some fun day trips in Arkansas?

Arkansas has no shortage of fun places to visit, starting with its charming and winsome small towns. In Oark, there's an old-fashioned general store that promises to whisk you back in time. Having first opened in 1890, the eponymous Oark General Store's original purpose was simply to provide goods to the town - after all, the nearest big city isn't for miles. From snacks to homemade jams and other canned goods to homestyle fare from the onsite restaurant, there's little you can't find at Oark General Store! In terms of outdoor attractions, look no further than Wilson Park in Fayetteville. This whimsical urban oasis features myriad works of art, including an enchanting castle designed by a very talented sculptor. It's like stepping into a fairytale without leaving your own backyard. For more fun attractions to visit in Arkansas, be sure to check out this article!

Is Arkansas a nice place to live?

Absolutely! In addition to being a safe place to live *and* drop-dead gorgeous, Arkansas is home to plenty of bucket-list-worthy man made attractions to our name, as well. From historic suspension bridges to relaxing train rides through the Boston Mountains, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you like to explore unique parks, visit quirky museums, or stroll down Main Street in a charming small town, Arkansas is the place to be for a fun family adventure.

Related Articles