Arkansas is endowed with natural attractions that include forest, rivers, and mountain ranges and this has made it one of the most popular destinations across the United States. However, when one is relocating to another state or state/house hunting, safety is also an essential factor to consider. Here, using the latest FBI Uniform Crime Reporting data, we’re taking a look at some of the safest cities in the Natural State.
1 Bentonville
Bentonville crowned the safest city in Arkansas, ranks highest among all the cities in the state. With Walmart's corporate headquarters located in this vibrant Ozark area, it has seen amazing development over the past ten calendar years. Still, Bentonville has one of the lowest rates of violent and property crime among all the cities as their population keeps rising.
Bentonville, a community with more than 54,000 people, has a remarkably low crime rate in 2019—just 90 violent crimes reported. With only 1.65 violent crimes per 1000 persons, it is much fewer than the statistical average of Virginia and the United States overall. With 1,312 overall cases—24 events per 1000 residents—violent crimes were likewise low. Safety in Bentonville is not much of a concern whether you are simply visiting and staying in a hotel or a parent of little children. Northwest Arkansas is alive with a developing economy and lots of recreational activities; it is not unexpected that many people find great attractions in this trendy mountain city.
2 Hot Springs Village
Hot Springs Village is the largest gated community you are likely to find in Arkansas; it is in the Ouachita Mountains region. A suburb with predominantly pine forests, this area covers 26,000 acres and more than 12,000 houses, which are located near Hot Springs. Living within the community, the residents themselves finance the police force and security and as a result, the crimes are significantly reduced every year.
In 2019, the incident of violent crimes was recorded at 14 while property crimes were registered at 144. However, for a country of such a size, these numbers are simply astounding. With diverse tracts of land and miles of trails for hiking and biking through woodlands, the safety of its residents is a priority here. The peculiarities of the location of Hot Springs Village and the architecture of houses ensure that people can be isolated from others while still being together with like-minded people. It is such a quiet and serene environment that both retirees and families with children will find this place ideal for living.
3 Mountain Home
Nestled in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, the city of Mountain Home has much to offer in the way of fabulous outdoor activities and a beautiful environment. Arkansas has ranked this as one of the safest metro areas. While in 2019 only 133 violent crimes were committed per the population of over 13 thousand people which gives an approximate number of ten violent crimes per thousand people. There were relatively low property crimes too; the total amount was 684 or 52/1000 of the total population.
The residents have spectacular mountain views and clear lakes, and many of the state parks are within a few miles away. From water skiing at Norfork Lake to bike riding, walking, or jogging at various trails, Mountain Home residents can engage in physical activities and do not have to fear the vices associated with big cities. The fact that the city is situated off a major interstate also makes it appealing to veterans because of the slow pace and activities that relate to country life.
4 Bella Vista
Northwest Arkansas maintains its safety record and the picturesque town of Bella Vista is its latest testament. Every house in this village is built in the scenic environment of the Ozark hills and valleys making it look like the world is out of the cities. This type of work environment was created in 1965 as a summer resort town, and the laid-back atmosphere still lingers on to this very day. For the same year, out of 28,266 residents of Bella Vista, only 76 violent crimes were committed, making it a minuscule number compared to other states or the whole country. The violent crime rate of 2.7 per one thousand people and property crime average of 35 per one thousand people deter criminals from the area.
Time has passed over nice boat rides in the clear watered lakes, playing golf on one of the many public golf courses, and taking nature trails. Bella Vista has grown significantly over the years, but thanks to the tight-knit community of retirees who have made a home out of the attractive landscape and safety of the town, it has never lost its rural charm. To those individuals interested in moving to the state located in the middle of the beautiful rolling hills of Arkansas, few places can offer the sense of security that Bella Vista can.
SafetyFirst
However, it has to be pointed out that absolutely no community is beyond the reach of crime. Still, the following four cities in Arkansas are ranked as some of the safest areas in the Natural State according to the latest statistics. Thus, they are perfect places to work and live or have a peaceful vacation since their violent and property crime rates are very low. These cities boast some of the most professional police departments, close-knit relationships with the community, and active watch and ward by citizens on focal points therefore, every city aims at ensuring the safety and security of its residents and any other persons in their region.
So no matter if one seeks spectacular mountain views lively metropolitan life, or even Southern hospitality in small towns, one can sleep soundly knowing that all these communities are safe. Bentonville, Hot Springs Village, Mountain Home, or Bella Vista are the best places to find the safest city in Arkansas. Would you like to share if you have been to any of the safest cities in Arkansas? Share with us your most beloved aspect of living or traveling to that particular place!
