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Russellville, Arkansas

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

62
Overall Score

Russellville is a growing hub located in Pope County, Arkansas, beautifully situated along the banks of the Arkansas River and Lake Dardanelle. Founded in the mid-19th century and incorporated in 1870, the city has evolved from a quiet river settlement into a dynamic regional center. It serves as the proud home of Arkansas Tech University, infusing the area with a youthful energy and cultural vibrancy. People are drawn to Russellville for its unique blend of scenic natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a robust local economy anchored by major industrial and energy employers.

The character of Russellville is defined by its welcoming southern hospitality, tight-knit community feel, and progressive infrastructure. Flanked by the Ozark Mountains and the Arkansas River, the city attracts outdoor enthusiasts, families, and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle. Historic downtown districts sit comfortably alongside modern commercial developments, offering residents a pleasant mix of heritage and contemporary convenience. As the principal city of the Russellville micropolitan area, it continues to draw new residents looking for economic stability without the congestion of a major metropolis.

About Arkansas

Arkansas, known as "The Natural State," offers diverse geography from the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains to the Mississippi River Delta, fostering a relaxed, nature-oriented lifestyle. The economy, historically rooted in agriculture with rice and poultry as leading products, has diversified to include significant contributions from manufacturing (food products, chemicals, wood and paper products, aerospace parts) and a growing service sector, largely influenced by Walmart's presence. Living in Arkansas is generally affordable, with a cost of living consistently below the national average, particularly for housing. The state experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers, and while property taxes are low, sales taxes can be high.

29,521
Population
$48K
Avg Salary
82
Cost Index
62.4
Quality Score
How this 62/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 68 / 100 68.0 30% 20.4
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 82.0 66.3 25% 16.6
Economy & jobs Median household income: $50,877 Income needed to live here: $42,000 Unemployment rate: 4.1% 62.6 20% 12.5
Growth Population growth rate: 0.32% Job growth rate: 1.5% 41.5 15% 6.2
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 67 / 100 67.0 10% 6.7
Overall score 62.4

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 1 (fast), q=75), last refreshed 11 October 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Russellville

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Quality Scores

Business
67
Livability
73
Affordability
82
Growth
69

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Russellville is significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious families, students, and retirees. Housing costs, in particular, remain exceptionally affordable, with median property values and average rents tracking well below national benchmarks. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation services also contribute to a lower overall cost index, allowing residents to stretch their disposable income further than they would in larger metropolitan regions.

While housing and standard consumer goods remain economical, certain expenses like specialized healthcare and specialized goods can align more closely with broader regional trends. Energy costs are tempered by local utility structures, though seasonal cooling and heating demands can cause minor fluctuations throughout the year. Overall, the local economic ecosystem ensures that residents experience a high purchasing power parity, allowing for comfortable living standards on modest household incomes.

Average Rent
$800/mo
Groceries
$380/mo
Transport
$110/mo
Utilities
$165/mo
Healthcare
$210/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$40.00
Cinema ticket
$11.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$18.00
Monthly groceries
$350.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$120.00

Salary Insights

Russellville features a resilient and diversified job market anchored by heavy manufacturing, education, energy, and food processing sectors. Major employers include Arkansas Nuclear One (Entergy), Tyson Foods, and Arkansas Tech University, providing a stable foundation of professional and technical opportunities. The city functions as a critical economic engine for Pope County and surrounding areas, drawing a daily commuter workforce that supports a thriving retail and service sector.

In recent years, the local economy has seen steady growth in entrepreneurial ventures and small business support systems, fostered by regional economic development initiatives. While traditional industries still dominate employment figures, remote work and digital infrastructure expansions have slowly introduced more flexibility for telecommuters. The presence of a major university ensures a continuous pipeline of educated talent entering the workforce each year.

The average salary in Russellville is $47,991 per year. You would need approximately $42,000 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Healthcare & Social Assistance +2.50% Manufacturing (Food Processing) +1.60% Retail & Hospitality +1.80% Education & Higher Education +2.00% Energy & Utilities +1.20%

Climate

🌡️
Avg Temp
☀️
Summer High
❄️
Winter Low
🌧️
"
Annual Rain
💧
68.00%
Humidity
🌤️
Sunny Days

Transport

Transportation in Russellville is predominantly car-dependent, with a layout optimized for efficient driving and minimal traffic congestion relative to larger urban centers. Interstate 40 runs directly through the city, providing swift regional transit connections to Little Rock and Fort Smith. Average commute times are short, allowing residents to traverse the city in minutes rather than hours.

Public transit options are limited, meaning most daily errands and commutes rely on personal vehicles. However, pedestrian and cycling infrastructure has seen incremental improvements, particularly around the university district and downtown core where walkability is highest.

18 min
Avg Commute
40.00/10
Transit Score
52.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
Average rent and overall cost of living are roughly 60% lower than the national average per Zillow and federal data.
Abundant outdoor recreation access, sitting directly adjacent to Lake Dardanelle and the Arkansas River.
Strong institutional anchor and cultural vitality provided by Arkansas Tech University.
Stable industrial and energy employment base anchored by major operations like Arkansas Nuclear One and Tyson Foods.
Short average commute times and easy access via Interstate 40.
Drawbacks
Poverty rate sits higher than the national average, standing at approximately 20.8% per U.S. Census Bureau data.
High car dependency with limited public transportation infrastructure for non-drivers.
Median household income trails both state and national averages.
Vulnerability to severe weather events typical of the Arkansas River Valley region.
Limited high-end entertainment and luxury retail options within city limits.

Questions about Russellville

What people ask about living in and moving to Russellville, Arkansas.

How does the cost of living in Russellville compare to the national average? Cost of Living 1 answer

Russellville’s cost of living index is 82, meaning it is 18% below the national average. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are generally cheaper. Housing costs are lower too, with an average rent of $800 per month. This can translate into significant savings over time, especially if you’re on a moderate income.

What is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Russellville? Housing 1 answer

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Russellville is about $800 per month. Prices can vary based on location, age of the building, and amenities, but this figure gives a solid baseline for budgeting. Checking local listings on real‑estate websites or contacting a local leasing office can help you find current market rates.

What is the average salary in Russellville and how does it compare to the national average? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

The average salary in Russellville is $47,991 per year, which is roughly 15% below the national average. While wages may be lower, the lower cost of living can offset the difference. If you’re a professional, you may find opportunities in local industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education, but you may need to research specific employers and job openings through local job boards or the city’s economic d...

How safe is Russellville for families? Safety 1 answer

Russellville’s safety score is 68 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety. Crime rates are generally lower than in larger metropolitan areas, but like any community, certain neighborhoods may have higher incidents. Reviewing local crime statistics on the city’s official website or through community forums can give you a clearer picture of specific areas.

What are the school options for my children in Russellville? Schools & Education 1 answer

Russellville offers a range of public schools managed by the local school district, as well as several private institutions. The district’s website provides information on enrollment, school performance, and district boundaries. Visiting schools in person or contacting the district’s admissions office can help you assess which schools best fit your children’s needs.

Is public transportation reliable in Russellville? Getting Around 1 answer

Public transportation in Russellville is limited compared to larger cities. A local transit authority operates a few bus routes that connect downtown, residential areas, and nearby commercial centers. Schedules can be irregular, so many residents rely on personal vehicles. Checking the transit authority’s website for route maps and timetables will give you the most up‑to‑date information.

What healthcare facilities are available in Russellville? Healthcare 1 answer

Russellville hosts a network of healthcare providers, including primary care clinics, specialty practices, and a regional hospital that offers emergency, surgical, and diagnostic services. The hospital’s website lists departments, staff credentials, and patient resources. For more specialized care, patients often travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities.

What recreational activities can I enjoy in Russellville? Things to Do 1 answer

Russellville offers a variety of outdoor and cultural activities. The city has parks with walking trails, a river for fishing and kayaking, and a community center that hosts events and classes. Local festivals and farmers’ markets also provide seasonal entertainment. Checking the city’s event calendar or local tourism board can help you plan visits.

What should I know about moving into Russellville? Moving Here 1 answer

When moving to Russellville, consider the lower cost of living and modest housing market. Plan for a budget that includes $800/month for rent, utilities, and groceries. Research local services such as utility providers, waste collection schedules, and community resources. It’s also wise to connect with local residents through community groups or online forums to learn about the neighborhood culture and practical tips...

What is the overall vibe of living in Russellville? General 1 answer

Russellville is known for its small‑town charm, friendly residents, and strong sense of community. The city hosts regular events that bring people together, and many families appreciate the slower pace of life. While it may lack some of the amenities of larger cities, the lower cost of living and moderate safety score make it an appealing option for those seeking a quieter, community‑focused lifestyle.

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Russellville? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.

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