Want to know what’s prompting so many Americans to pack up and move to Arkansas these days? Just ask Martin Smith, landscape architect and resident of Birdeye in Cross County in northeast Arkansas near Memphis.
“I think it’s an excellent place for young couples to come and settle,” Smith says. “With the advent of technology and connectivity, you can do anything here. The Natural State is true to its name. Why Arkansas? For me, it’s the cultural aspect, the authentic experiences of the Delta, the natural resources, the ability to go rock climbing, to go mountain biking, to float in the bayous. It’s the beauty of the state, the beauty of the people, the beauty of the rural communities and the towns. That sums it up.”
Smith has plenty of company. According to a report by HireAHelper, Arkansas was the No. 1 state that people moved into, by ratio, during 2021. Arkansas had 44% more people move into the state than move out.
The study looked at more than 90,000 moving jobs booked in the U.S. through its online platform during 2021. It compared these numbers to 2020 data to identify population shifts and the net gains and losses that each state had last year.
Many of those who elected to relocate to Arkansas cited the state’s low cost of living (third lowest in the U.S.), abundant options of affordable housing, and plethora of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed year-round.