Welcome to Bentonville, AR, a city that combines the charm of small-town living with the amenities of a burgeoning metropolitan area. Nestled in Northwest Arkansas, Bentonville is a hub of economic activity, cultural richness, and outdoor adventure. 

This ultimate guide will provide you with everything you need to know about moving to Bentonville, AR, from the economic opportunities and quality of life to the best neighborhoods and relocation tips.

Why Move to Bentonville, AR?

Bentonville, Arkansas, has become an attractive destination for many due to its robust economy, cultural richness, and affordable living. 

Central to Bentonville’s economic allure is the presence of Walmart’s global headquarters, which has spurred the growth of numerous ancillary businesses and job opportunities in the area. 

Major corporations such as Tyson Foods and J.B. Hunt Transport Services also have significant operations here, contributing to a diverse and dynamic job market. 

Additionally, Bentonville is experiencing an 80% growth in STEM jobs, positioning itself as an emerging tech hub in the region. This economic stability is complemented by an impressive unemployment rate of 2.9%, well below the national average.

Beyond its economic advantages, Bentonville offers a high quality of life with a cost of living that is 1.3% lower than the national average. 

The city’s housing market is particularly favorable, with median home prices around $379,915, making homeownership both affordable and a good investment due to steady property value appreciation. 

Bentonville’s vibrant cultural scene includes world-class attractions like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary, a contemporary art space. 

The city also hosts numerous events, such as the Bentonville Film Festival, enhancing its appeal as a lively and engaging community. 

These factors combined make moving to Bentonville, AR, an appealing option for families, professionals, and anyone looking for a balanced lifestyle.

Housing in Bentonville

The housing market in Bentonville, AR, has seen significant growth and competitiveness in recent years. As of early 2024, the median listing home price in Bentonville has surged to approximately $575,000, reflecting a substantial year-over-year increase of 20.6%. 

Homes in Bentonville are selling for a median price of $460,000, with properties typically spending around 62 days on the market. 

The per-square-foot price has also risen, with a current median of $239. This growth indicates a strong seller’s market, driven by high demand and limited supply, making it a prime area for real estate investment.

In terms of availability, there are currently around 512 homes for sale in Bentonville, ranging from affordable options at $45,000 to luxury listings exceeding $21 million. 

This wide range offers opportunities for various buyers, whether looking for starter homes or high-end properties. Additionally, the rental market in Bentonville is robust, with 211 properties available for rent, priced between $895 and $5,900 per month. 

The competitive nature of Bentonville’s housing market is further emphasized by recent sales data, showing homes often selling very close to their list prices, averaging just 0.94% below asking price.

Employment Opportunities

Bentonville, Arkansas, presents a vibrant job market fueled by its diverse economic landscape and the presence of major corporations like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt. 

As of 2024, Bentonville is seeing significant growth in employment opportunities across various sectors, including retail, healthcare, technology, and the arts. Walmart alone provides a plethora of job openings ranging from entry-level positions to executive roles. 

Additionally, the city’s commitment to expanding its tech sector has resulted in an 80% growth in STEM jobs, making it an appealing destination for tech professionals and innovators.

The local government of Bentonville is also actively hiring, and offering positions in public administration, maintenance, and public safety, among others. 

The City of Bentonville emphasizes equal opportunity employment, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment. 

Moreover, the job market is supported by a range of roles in hospitality, customer service, and the arts, with companies like Oasis Hospitality Group and various local galleries providing unique employment options. The average commute time in Bentonville is relatively short at about 20 minutes, adding to the city’s appeal for working professionals looking for a balanced lifestyle.

Education and Schools

Bentonville, AR, is home to a robust and highly regarded educational system. The Bentonville School District serves over 19,000 students across 24 schools, including 13 elementary schools, five middle schools, four junior highs, and two high schools. 

The district is known for its exceptional academic performance, boasting an average student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, which facilitates personalized instruction and support. 

The district’s emphasis on academic excellence is evident with a high graduation rate of 94% and a significant number of students participating in Advanced Placement (AP) courses. 

In 2023, Bentonville schools had 2,018 AP students who took 3,185 exams, with 63% scoring a 3 or higher, indicating strong college readiness among graduates.

The quality of education in Bentonville is further highlighted by the district’s impressive rankings. Schools like Bright Field Middle School and Willowbrook Elementary are ranked in the top 1% in the state for their high proficiency in math and reading. 

Evening Star Elementary and Osage Creek Elementary also stand out, ranking among the best public elementary schools in Arkansas. 

The district supports a wide range of extracurricular activities, including nationally recognized programs in visual and performing arts, athletics, and computer science, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education. 

Additionally, Bentonville schools offer more than 40 career pathways for high school students, preparing them for both college and career success.

Transportation

Transportation in Bentonville, AR is both comprehensive and accommodating, designed to cater to the needs of residents and visitors alike. 

The Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) provides a free bus service that connects Bentonville with nearby cities like Rogers, enhancing regional mobility. This service operates from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with additional on-demand transit options available. 

On-demand services allow riders to schedule trips via a smartphone app, with a nominal fee of $1.25 per ride, making transportation both accessible and affordable. These services ensure that residents can easily access essential locations, from workplaces to recreational areas.

For those arriving by air, the Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) offers numerous direct flights, ensuring that Bentonville is well-connected nationally. 

The city also provides various rental car services from companies like Enterprise, Avis, and Hertz, alongside ride-hailing options such as Uber and Lyft. For local travel, Bentonville’s public transit system includes routes with convenient stops across the city, making it easy to explore. 

If you are planning to move to Bentonville, hiring moving companies in Bentonville AR can significantly ease the process. Professional movers not only transport your belongings safely but can also help you acclimate to the city by providing valuable insights about the area.

Community and Safety

Bentonville, AR, is known for its strong sense of community and robust safety initiatives. The city hosts various events and programs designed to foster community engagement and cohesion. 

For instance, the “Bentonville Together” initiative, launched by Mayor Stephanie Orman in 2020, aims to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across the city. 

This initiative includes the annual Bentonville Together Multicultural Festival, which celebrates the city’s diverse cultural heritage through food, music, and arts. The city also organizes events like “Spring Clean the Streets Day,” where residents come together to clean up local streets and parks, enhancing community spirit and environmental stewardship.

Safety is a top priority in Bentonville, with comprehensive services provided by the Bentonville Fire Department and the city’s police force. The Bentonville Fire Department is highly regarded, boasting an ISO Class 1 rating, the highest possible for fire protection services. 

This rating reflects the department’s excellence in fire prevention, emergency medical services, and disaster response. Additionally, the Bentonville Police Department is committed to maintaining a low crime rate through community policing strategies and regular engagement with residents. 

Programs like neighborhood watch and regular community meetings help ensure that Bentonville remains a safe and welcoming place for all its residents.