Safest Cities in Arkansas 2025 | Crime-Free & Affordable

Want to live where crime is rare, schools excel, and your investment grows?

Arkansas in 2025 offers hidden gems that rank among the safest cities in America - and they’re more affordable than you think.

Whether you’re looking for Arkansas safety or comparing crime rate by city, this guide delivers data-backed rankings on the safest cities for families, retirees, and remote workers. From Greenbrier’s near-zero crime to Fayetteville’s mountain safety zone, you’ll get side-by-side stats, home prices, and why each city is worth your move.

Choose safety, affordability, and fit with this side-by-side view of Arkansas’s top low-crime cities.

These cities combine low crime rates with livable prices and community perks—ideal for safer, smarter home buying in 2025.

If you're also considering the Carolinas, compare with the Safest Cities in North Carolina (2025) for a broader Southeast view.

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If you’re looking for the safest city in Arkansas to raise a family or retire in peace, Greenbrier continues to lead the state in 2025. With violent crime rates under 1 per 1,000 residents, it's not just safer — it’s a standout nationwide.

Located just north of Conway, AR, Greenbrier offers small-town charm with big safety stats, a growing housing market, and strong community infrastructure. It’s especially appealing to those comparing crime rates in Arkansas cities or wondering where to find low-risk places with high family value.

• Violent Crime: Only 0.7 per 1,000 residents — among the lowest crime rates in Arkansas
• Property Crime: Also 0.7 per 1,000 — an excellent signal for buyers and parents
• Strong police presence + community-led crime prevention programs
• Quick access to jobs and schools in Conway, without compromising on peace

• Families prioritizing low crime and great schools
• Retirees looking for quiet, walkable neighborhoods
• Homebuyers comparing safest cities in Arkansas for 2025 or evaluating where the crime rate is lowest in Arkansas

• Median Home Price: ~$210,000
• School Rating: 8/10 (Niche)
• YoY Home Value Growth: +6.2%
• Nearby Cities: Conway, Vilonia, and Wooster

Bonus Insight: Greenbrier ranks above other Arkansas towns like Bentonville, Mena, and Russellville for community safety, access to amenities, and school satisfaction — making it one of the most well-rounded choices for long-term peace of mind.

Considering other Southern safe zones? Here’s our updated guide to the Safest Places to Live in Georgia.

Cave Springs isn’t just one of the safest cities in Arkansas—it’s also among the most desirable suburbs in Northwest Arkansas. With violent crime rates as low as 0.8 per 1,000 residents, upscale neighborhoods, and direct access to tech jobs in Bentonville and Fayetteville, this city blends security with upward mobility.

Families and professionals looking for low crime rates, high home value appreciation, and school excellence are increasingly choosing Cave Springs over other Arkansas cities with similar home prices but weaker safety scores.

• Violent Crime: Just 0.8 per 1,000 – better than national averages for similar-sized towns
• Property Crime: Remains low at 3.1 per 1,000, despite rapid growth
• Sits near Bentonville (home to Walmart HQ), drawing high-income earners and better-funded public services
• Part of the Northwest Arkansas safe cities corridor along with Bentonville, Rogers, and Bella Vista

• Dual-income families in tech, logistics, or healthcare looking for stable growth zones
• Parents prioritizing school quality + safety
• Retirees who want low-maintenance living in a low-crime Arkansas zip code

• Median Home Price: ~$365,000
• School Ratings: 9/10 (average across top public schools)
• 12-Month Home Value Growth: +8.5%
• Nearby Cities: Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale

Cave Springs often outperforms cities like Fayetteville and Fort Smith in terms of crime reduction, home value stability, and walkability. If you're seeking an area with low violent crime, minimal property theft, and high civic engagement, Cave Springs belongs at the top of your list.

Want a broader look at where security meets lifestyle in the Southeast? Don’t miss our guide to the Safest Places to Live in Virginia —another high-growth state with strong family appeal.

Greenwood quietly ranks among Arkansas’s safest cities—but what makes it special is how well it balances security, affordability, and community life. With a violent crime rate of just 1.3 per 1,000 residents, strong school ratings, and low housing costs, it’s become a top destination for families seeking safety without sacrificing space or value.

Tucked just outside Fort Smith, Greenwood is part of the western Arkansas corridor that consistently outperforms state averages in both school satisfaction and public safety.

• Violent Crime: 1.3 per 1,000 — below the Arkansas average of 6.9
• Property Crime: 3.7 per 1,000 — aided by active neighborhood watch programs
• Strong local leadership + well-funded public services = higher safety perception
• Direct access to Fort Smith employment market without the city’s higher crime exposure

• School-focused families who want peace of mind and great educational support
• Buyers seeking low crime towns near Fort Smith
• Parents comparing Arkansas crime rate by city before relocating
• Those wanting a tight-knit feel in a fast-improving town

• Median Home Price: ~$195,000
• School Rating: 8/10 (Greenwood School District)
• Recreation Access: High — parks, youth sports, walkability
• Nearby Cities: Fort Smith, Hackett, Mansfield

Greenwood consistently outpaces nearby areas like Van Buren, Alma, and even parts of Little Rock in safety metrics. It’s also a smart move for first-time buyers looking for low property taxes, stable prices, and a safer alternative to Arkansas’s larger urban zones.

Interested in family-safe neighborhoods beyond Arkansas? Check out the Safest Places to Live in Illinois—especially if you're relocating from the Midwest.

For buyers seeking quiet Arkansas suburbs with ultra-low crime, Austin is one of the state’s best-kept secrets in 2025. With a violent crime rate of just 0.7 per 1,000 residents, this small town in Lonoke County is gaining attention from commuters, young families, and first-time buyers who want peace, proximity, and property value—all without the noise of a big city.

Positioned just northeast of Little Rock and near Cabot, Austin offers safe neighborhoods, new construction growth, and quick access to Highway 67, making it ideal for professionals and families alike.

• Violent Crime: 0.7 per 1,000 — matching the safest cities in the state like Greenbrier
• Property Crime: Remains minimal thanks to low-density zoning and community vigilance
• Located near Cabot and Beebe, but with stronger crime prevention stats
• Homeownership rate is rising, drawing more long-term residents and civic investment

• Little Rock commuters who want a safer, slower pace
• Young families priced out of metro areas like Bentonville or Conway
• Homebuyers comparing Arkansas suburbs with low crime and high value appreciation
• Veterans and military families relocating near Little Rock AFB

• Median Home Price: ~$225,000
• School District: Shares boundaries with top-rated Cabot Public Schools
• New Construction Growth: +9% YoY
• Nearby Towns: Ward, Cabot, Beebe

While bigger cities like Springdale or North Little Rock may offer more amenities, Austin delivers a unique combo of affordable real estate, low crime, and strong community identity. It’s especially attractive to buyers exploring safe towns in central Arkansas with room to grow.

Curious how other budget-friendly safe cities compare? See our latest on Affordable Places to Live in Oregon — a West Coast option with surprisingly similar suburban perks.

In 2025, Bella Vista stands out as one of Arkansas’s safest cities—but what makes it even more attractive is its perfect blend of natural beauty, senior-friendly infrastructure, and low crime rates. With gated communities, HOA-monitored neighborhoods, and proximity to Northwest Arkansas's booming economy, Bella Vista is a magnet for retirees, remote professionals, and outdoor lovers.

The city’s crime rates are consistently among the lowest in Arkansas, with some neighborhoods reporting near-zero violent incidents for multiple years. That peace of mind, paired with trails, lakes, golf, and healthcare access, makes it one of the most livable small cities in the South.

• Low violent crime: One of the top-ranked safe places in Arkansas for 2025
• HOA patrols, private security, and tight-knit neighborhoods
• Built for low traffic, high walkability, and strong community cohesion
• Located minutes from Bentonville and major hospitals, yet surrounded by nature

• Retirees seeking a slower pace with peace-of-mind safety
• Remote workers wanting beauty and broadband, not break-ins
• Buyers seeking low-crime areas near Bentonville without the price tag
• Anyone comparing safest places to live in Northwest Arkansas for long-term planning

• Median Home Price: ~$260,000
• Community Type: HOA neighborhoods with full amenities
• Nature Access: 7 lakes, 100+ miles of trails, 6 golf courses
• Nearby Cities: Bentonville, Pea Ridge, Gravette

Considering retiring somewhere equally scenic and secure? Explore the Safest Places to Live in South Carolina for East Coast inspiration.

Cabot has earned its place among the safest cities in Arkansas for families—and it’s not by accident. With strong public investment in schools, emergency services, and infrastructure, this fast-growing Little Rock suburb delivers on both safety and livability.

Cabot’s violent crime rates remain low, especially compared to nearby cities like Jacksonville or North Little Rock. That, combined with stable housing prices, military commuter access, and top-tier public schools, has made it a go-to for families, military professionals, and first-time buyers in Central Arkansas.

• Low violent and property crime rates year after year
• Home to one of the best-funded public school districts in Arkansas
• Just 30 minutes from downtown Little Rock—but feels like a world away
• Increasingly popular among Little Rock AFB military families for long-term housing

• Families looking for a safe place to raise children with school support
• Buyers comparing crime rates near Little Rock suburbs
• Military and remote workers looking for low turnover, high value housing
• Homeowners looking for long-term equity in safe Arkansas neighborhoods

• Median Home Price: ~$240,000
• School District: Cabot School District (Top 5 in Arkansas)
• Public Safety Ranking: Top 3 among Central AR suburbs
• Nearby Cities: Austin, Ward, Jacksonville

Local Advantage: Cabot outperforms nearby towns like Sherwood and Searcy in crime prevention, student achievement, and civic funding. Whether you’re relocating or upgrading, Cabot gives you the space, safety, and structure for a smart move in 2025.

Still comparing safe suburban options across the U.S.? Explore the Safest Places to Live in Indiana for another state with strong family appeal and low crime numbers.

In a state known for affordability, Mena quietly delivers one of the best combinations of low crime, low cost, and high peace of mind. Nestled near the Ouachita National Forest, this small town isn’t just scenic—it’s also one of the safest places to live in Arkansas in 2025, especially for retirees, remote workers, and buyers seeking quiet security.

What makes Mena special isn’t just its low violent crime rate—it’s the culture of trust and community-driven policing. The local economy is stable, the streets are calm, and homes remain incredibly affordable compared to larger Arkansas cities with higher crime exposure.

• Violent Crime: Among the lowest in the state
• Located away from major urban corridors = lower property crime risk
• Strong community ties, responsive law enforcement, and low traffic areas
• Near national forest trails, lakes, and recreation zones — not high-risk zones

• Retirees looking for low taxes and crime-free living
• Remote workers seeking nature, peace, and broadband
• Buyers who want to own land or larger lots in a safe part of Arkansas
• People priced out of cities like Bentonville, Fayetteville, or Hot Springs

• Median Home Price: ~$175,000
• Homeownership Rate: High — long-term residents, low turnover
• Living Costs: 20% below national average
• Nearby Areas: Hatfield, Wickes, Board Camp

Small Town, Big Advantage: Unlike more developed areas with fluctuating safety, Mena holds steady. It’s safer than parts of Russellville, Springdale, and Texarkana, while offering better views, better air, and fewer sirens. Add in its proximity to hiking trails, rivers, and mountain roads, and you’ve got a safe-haven town that’s still undervalued.

Looking to compare Mena to another low-crime, nature-friendly region? Check out the Safest Places to Live in Colorado — especially if you’re drawn to forests, clean air, and tight-knit towns.

Jonesboro flips the script on what you'd expect from a mid-sized Arkansas city. Despite its population size and urban infrastructure, Jonesboro maintains lower crime rates than many smaller towns. It's one of the few places in Arkansas where you get city amenities, economic opportunity, and relatively low violent crime—all in one package.

As the home of Arkansas State University and multiple hospitals, Jonesboro benefits from a large public safety presence, 24/7 emergency response, and steady local investment. It's become a top pick for students, healthcare workers, first-time homebuyers, and remote professionals who don’t want to compromise on either cost or security.

• Crime Rate: Lower than Fort Smith, Pine Bluff, and parts of Little Rock
• Campus and hospital patrols enhance security around high-traffic zones
• One of the few urban areas in Arkansas where crime is trending down
• Strong infrastructure, street lighting, and neighborhood zoning keep petty crime low

• Students and faculty at ASU looking for affordable, safe rentals or starter homes
• Healthcare professionals working at NEA Baptist or St. Bernards
• Families looking for an urban safety zone without Little Rock prices or risks
• Buyers comparing Arkansas cities by crime rate + job opportunity

• Median Home Price: ~$190,000
• Rental Cost: Below Arkansas average — high supply from student housing
• Workforce: Education, healthcare, logistics, retail
• Nearby Cities: Paragould, Trumann, Brookland

Jonesboro outperforms other Arkansas cities its size in both public safety metrics and livability scores. It’s an ideal fit for buyers searching for safe cities in Northeast Arkansas, especially those priced out of Northwest Arkansas metros like Bentonville or Fayetteville.

Still weighing your options between college towns or medical hubs? Explore the Safest Places to Live in Ohio for another smart, steady-state alternative.

While many Arkansas cities are stepping up in safety, others still struggle with violent crime, property theft, and weak infrastructure. Whether you’re a homebuyer, investor, or planning to relocate, knowing which areas to approach with caution can save you from long-term stress and short-term regrets.

We’re not here to fearmonger — but if crime rate trends, law enforcement challenges, or economic instability matter to you (and they should), these cities rank among the least safe in Arkansas in 2025.

• Violent Crime Rate: 10.4 per 1,000 — among the highest in the state

• Issues with gang violence, underfunded law enforcement, and property crime

• Despite being near Memphis, it lacks the infrastructure support of a metro area

• Best avoided for families or first-time homebuyers seeking peace of mind

• Crime Rate: High for both violent and property crime (esp. burglary & assault)

• Low-income levels, educational gaps, and reduced public safety resources

• Some areas show promise, but many neighborhoods remain high-risk zones

• Pine Bluff crime rate searches are increasing — not for good reasons

• A consistent presence on “most dangerous cities in Arkansas” lists

• Ongoing problems with policing gaps, educational decline, and poverty

• Violent crime rate remains above state average, with limited economic recovery

• Best viewed as a long-term redevelopment zone — not a relocation destination in 2025

Before buying or investing in any city with a high crime rate, dig into:

• Local law enforcement budgets

• Recent violent crime vs property crime trends

• School district funding and graduation rates

• Availability of public transportation, lighting, and emergency response times

These indicators often predict whether a “bad neighborhood” is declining further—or quietly recovering.

Want safer cities with similar price points and better upside? See our breakdown of the Most Affordable Places to Live in Michigan, where low prices don’t come with safety trade-offs.

Arkansas may not sit on the Gulf Coast, but it's no stranger to severe weather. While hurricanes rarely make direct landfall here, the state can still face tornadoes, flash flooding, and storm surges from surrounding systems—especially in southern and eastern regions.

If you’re relocating and want low crime and low natural disaster risk, these towns stand out for their elevation, distance from flood zones, and weather resilience—not just their affordability or charm.

• Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, far from hurricane paths

• Consistently avoids flood damage due to higher elevation

• Also one of Arkansas’s safest cities with strong infrastructure and weather alerts

• Popular among retirees and professionals avoiding coastal risk

• Protected by geography from Gulf-driven storms

• Excellent city planning, drainage, and emergency readiness

• Home to Walmart HQ = consistent investment in public infrastructure and response

• Among the lowest-risk Arkansas cities for storm, flood, and crime

• In Northeast Arkansas, far from storm surge or coastal risk

• Proximity to hospitals, universities, and city-managed emergency systems

• Low hurricane impact + moderate crime levels = balanced safety profile

• One of the most affordable safe cities in Arkansas for 2025

• While Little Rock does face storms, certain elevated suburbs offer better protection

• Areas like Chenal Valley, Hillcrest, and parts of Maumelle show stronger infrastructure and storm drainage

• Combine with low-crime neighborhoods for dual-layer safety

• Distance from Gulf Coast + Mississippi River Basin

• Located in Northwest or North-Central Arkansas

• Invested in city planning, zoning, and emergency communication systems

• Bonus: Check FEMA floodplain maps and local tornado history

Looking for other regions with both weather safety and lifestyle upside? Check out the Safest Places to Live in Virginia —a state that balances elevation, preparedness, and prosperity.

Yes—low-crime cities in Arkansas offer better long-term value, stability, and resale power.

If you're weighing “is it worth buying a home in a low-crime city?”, consider this: properties in safer areas like Greenbrier, Cave Springs, and Cabot often see:

• Faster appreciation: Low-crime = high demand = rising home values

• Lower insurance premiums: Safer ZIP codes cost less to cover

• Higher resale appeal: Families and retirees prioritize safety

• Peace of mind: Emotional ROI is real—especially for parents and remote workers

Use a side-by-side scorecard to compare crime stats, prices, and perks—before you buy.

Here’s how to do it smart:

• Step 1: Look at violent crimes per 1,000 residents — key safety signal

• Step 2: Check property crime (break-ins, theft) separately

• Step 3: Use real estate + school data to weigh total livability

• Step 4: Use tools like NeighborhoodScout, local police reports, or Niche school ratings

• Step 5: Compare against home prices — not just averages, but trends

Pro tip: Cities like Greenwood (1.3/1K) and Austin (0.7/1K) outperform urban spots like Little Rock in every category. Safety often correlates with smarter infrastructure and longer-term value.

Safety and affordability don’t always align—here’s how to choose based on your goals.

If you’re torn between a safe suburb like Cabot and a cheap city like Pine Bluff, you’re not alone.

• Lower crim
• Better schools
• Stronger resale value
• More community programs

• Slightly higher upfront cost
• Longer commutes (in some cases)

• Lower entry price
• Larger lot sizes
• May qualify for grants or programs

• Higher crime = insurance cost + emotional toll
• Slower growth or negative value trends
• Weaker school and safety infrastructure

Bottom Line: If you're playing the long game, suburbs with safety win every time—especially with reAlpha’s cashback offers to offset cost.

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Fayetteville is one of the safest larger cities in Arkansas—especially in elevated neighborhoods like Mount Sequoyah. Crime rates are lower than most urban areas, with strong university and hospital security zones. It’s a top pick for families and professionals who want college-town vibes without compromising safety.

• Safe zones: East Fayetteville, Mount Sequoyah, Root School District

• Local perks: Bike trails, farmer’s markets, and low property crime

• Bonus: Fayetteville also ranks among the safest college towns in the South

Little Rock has both safe and high-risk zones—knowing the difference is key. While the downtown area and southwest corridors face higher crime, neighborhoods like Hillcrest, The Heights, and Chenal Valley are consistently ranked safer.

• Safer zones: The Heights, West Little Rock, Hillcrest, Midtown

• Smart move: Compare ZIP codes + school districts before buying

• Tip: Look for areas with high owner-occupancy and active HOAs

Arkansas ranks mid-tier nationally for safety—but certain cities beat the odds. While urban crime affects the averages, cities like Greenbrier, Bella Vista, and Cave Springs outperform the U.S. average for both violent and property crime.

• Arkansas average violent crime: ~6.9 per 1,000

• Cities like Greenbrier/Austin: <1.0 per 1,000

• Safer than: Louisiana, Mississippi, and parts of Missouri

You’ve found where safety, value, and lifestyle meet in Arkansas. Now it’s time to lock in your home and your savings — starting with your mortgage.

With reAlpha Mortgage, you don’t just finance your dream home — you unlock the largest cashback in the state:

• 25% back when you use a reAlpha Realty agent
• 50% back when you bundle with reAlpha Mortgage
• Full 75% back when you add Title services

Why start with your mortgage? Because it’s the smartest first move: lower payments, faster approvals, and bigger cashback to reinvest in your home or lifestyle. Whether you’re choosing Greenbrier’s peace, Cave Springs’ growth, or Cabot’s family focus, reAlpha Mortgage gives you a safe, affordable, and financially powerful path to ownership.

Greenbrier and Austin lead with just 0.7 violent crimes per 1,000 residents—among the lowest in the U.S. for towns their size.

Yes, depending on the city. Northwest Arkansas cities like Bella Vista, Cave Springs, and Fayetteville score far below national crime averages.

West Memphis tops the list with a violent crime rate over 10 per 1,000 residents.

Greenbrier, Cave Springs, Cabot, and Bella Vista deliver low crime, stable prices, and strong resale potential.

Yes-low-crime areas often see faster appreciation, lower insurance rates, and higher resale demand.

Find the Perfect Mortgage in Arkansas with Be My Neighbor.

Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance—all in one place.

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