A contemporary city that grew out of Walmart's influence
Bentonville is the city that Walmart built. In 1950, when Walmart founder Sam Walton moved to town, the population was less than 3,000. Walton bought a dime store that was the precursor to Walmart. He set up shop across the street from the town square, which everyone knew by the Confederate statue at its center. Today more than 61,000 people call Bentonville home. The square is still the center of activity, but the statue is gone – a symbolic but meaningful gesture that signaled Bentonville’s transformation from traditional small town to contemporary urban city. Bentonville is now symbolized by a thriving community that revolves around world-class art, a vibrant dining scene and outdoor adventures that makes it the jewel of Northwest Arkansas. “With Sam’s vision and the connectivity of Walmart, … vendors and suppliers moved to the area to service Walmart. That changed our environment,” says Kalene Griffith, the longtime CEO/President of Visit Bentonville. “What Walmart did was create an innovative kind of culture in our community. Being the home of Walmart allowed us to see the possibilities.”
Learn the history and legacy of Sam Walton at the Walmart museum in downtown Bentonville.
The Bentonville square offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
See Stefan Sagmeister's "Lakes and Rivers" interactive art installation in Bentonville.
Nothing relaxes like an afternoon fishing the pond at Osage Park.
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Walmart’s latest expansion will include a new corporate campus
Bentonville cannot be separated from Walmart's economic impact, and that influence continues to grow. The company’s corporate headquarters will soon be moving to a 350-acre site closer to Interstate 49. The new headquarters will include 12 buildings, nine parking decks, a childcare center and two lakes. A hotel, auditorium and amphitheater are also planned for the site. J.B. Hunt, Tyson Foods and the Bentonville School District are other major employers.
Walmart continues work on it's new state of the art headquarters in Bentonville.
The current Walmart Headquarters is located on Walton Boulevard in Bentonville.
The new Walmart headquarters includes 12 buildings on a 350 acre site in Bentonville.
The new Walmart headquarters has a childcare center, hotel, auditorium, and ampitheater.
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Contemporary attractions include Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, diverse dining scene
Nothing illustrates the city’s changes more than the downtown square and its surroundings, which have been central to the community since 1837. On one side is Walton’s original store, which is now a museum. On the other is the Benton County Courthouse. While they point to Bentonville’s past, everything else points to its future. One of the premier downtown attractions is The Ledger office building, a contemporary workspace that stands out in more ways than one. “I think it’s the first bikeable building in the United States; you can take the ramp that’s outside the building all the way to the sixth floor,” Griffith says. “What I love about it is that it has integrated art into the facility. There’s even art on the ramps.” Bentonville is filled with public art, and the most well-known installation graces The Ledger’s exterior. “Lakes and Rivers” is the work of artist Stephan Sagmeister. The interactive installation consists of two largemouth bass designed with 268,947 shimmering disks that move and change with the elements. More contemporary art can be found at the 21C Museum & Hotel. Next door is Lawrence Plaza, a popular gathering place that is a splash park in the summer and a skating rink in the winter. The Plaza connects to other attractions such as Compton Gardens and Arboretum, Scott Family Amazeum and the Crystal Bridges Museum of Art. A passion project of Alice Walton and her Walton Foundation, the museum opened in 2011. Admission is free. “It has more than 500 pieces of art from the Colonial Period to the Contemporary Period,” Griffith says. “Amazing quality in a state-of-the-art facility. It’s an amazing experience for an art lover but also for someone who is a novice in the art world.” Downtown also features a dining scene typical of a much-larger city. Matthew Cooper, the chef at Conifer, and Rafael Rios, the man behind Yeyo's El Alma de Mexico, were 2024 James Beard Award finalists. Conifer is an upscale contemporary restaurant that focuses on fine dining in an intimate setting. “We have a lot of locally owned and chef-driven farm-to-table experiences in the community,” Griffith says. “Conifer is one of those, The Preacher’s Son, the Hive at 21C, Tusk & Trotter.” Yeyo's El Alma de Mexico is a family-run eatery whose inspiration is Mexican street food. It is part of the 8th Street Market, a community-focused hub that features a food truck park. Other downtown favorites include Pedaler’s Pub and Oven & Tap, known for its wood-fired pizza and craft cocktails. “You’ve got this mix of elevated cuisine and some really cool causal spots,” Griffith says. Boutique shops and independent businesses downtown include Onyx Coffee Lab, Three Dog Bakery and Block Street Records. Pinnacle Hills Promenade, which is located just off I-49, offers an array of upscale shopping and dining options. And, of course, residents can shop at Walmart Supercenter and several Walmart Neighborhood Markets.
The World's first bikable office building, The Ledger, is in downtown Bentonville.
The Amazeum is an incredible experience for kids and kids at heart.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville is iconic.
Many kids learn to skate at Lawrence Plaza during the Lights on the Square.
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A dedicated cycling culture in the ‘Mountain Biking Capital of the World’
Growth and modernization are also evident in Bentonville’s recreational options. Residents have access to about 100 bike trails in and around the city. “You can go to the downtown square and get on a trail within one block. It’s an urban single-use trail. That’s almost unheard of. Most places you have to drive somewhere to get on a trail.” The focus on biking is relatively new, having grown out of discussions among officials during COVID. The city, however, has quickly adapted to support its ambitions. “Our community as a whole has adopted cycling,” Griffith says. “Our hotels have bike lockers, our restaurants have bike racks, our retailers have bike racks. Everyone has bought in.” This includes the city having protected bike lanes and specific trails for adaptive riders. “We’re not catering to just one group, we’re catering to all,” Griffith says. “It allows us to call ourselves the ‘Mountain Biking Capital of the World.’” The more-challenging mountain bike trails are concentrated at Slaughter Pen Trail and Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. The Razorback Regional Greenway, which begins just north of Bentonville in Bella Vista, is a 40-mile bike path that connects all of the major cities in Northwest Arkansas. It ends at Kessler Mountain Regional Park in Fayetteville. Osage Park is a popular green space built around Lake Bentonville. The walkable complex is highlighted by floating boardwalks that allow visitors to walk on water, so to speak. The lake is large enough to offer space for kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. Pickleball courts and a playground provide additional activities. “I’ve been here 20 years, and one of the things I value is that you still have that small-town charm and southern hospitality along with the big-city amenities that are very accessible,” Griffith says. “It creates a quality-of-life experience. There’s always something to do within our community.”
Coler Mountain Bike Preserve features over 19 miles of trails, differing in difficulty.
The Slaughter Pen Trails compose of 40-plus miles of single-track in Bentonville.
Compton Gardens connects to the Razorback Greenway and the Slaughter Pen Trail.
The pickleball courts are a great place to spend an evening with friends or family.
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Median home price highest in Northwest Arkansas
With significant growth comes an increased standard of living. Bentonville’s median household income increased about 25 percent from 2017 to 2022. The current median home price of $462,000 is the highest in Northwest Arkansas. It’s also slightly higher than the national average. The city offers a mix of historic homes, sprawling estates, established ranch-style options and new construction that includes contemporary condos and townhouses. Large Victorian-style homes stand out among the extensive renovations in some of the city’s more expensive neighborhoods. Overall, prices range from $300,000 to more than $3 million. To combat the need for affordable housing as the population expands, the city created Project ARROW in partnership with the city council, local developers, national planning commissioners and residents. The initiative launched in 2023, spearheaded by the Housing Affordability Work Group. Residents enjoy a temperate climate and all four seasons. The occasional snowstorm can cause issues given the city’s location in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains.
New homes are common in the vastly expanding Bentonville, with a variety of new traditional styles.
Condominiums are one of many new types of homes popping up across Bentonville.
Bentonville offers many renovated historic homes like this one, built in 1890.
Newer neighborhoods of larger homes are springing up in west Bentonville.
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All 23 schools in Bentonville School District are A-rated
The Bentonville School District, which earns an A-plus from Niche, serves almost 19,000 students. Niche ranks it as the second-best district in the state. All 23 of its schools are A-rated. Bentonville High School is the largest non-charter public school in the state. Northwest Arkansas Community College earns a B from Niche. The school recently partnered with Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food to offer an innovative approach to education in the culinary arts. The Certified Sous Chef Apprenticeship consists of technical instruction and on-the-job paid training over the course of two to three years. The Alice L. Walton School of Medicine is a medical teaching school that is slated to open in 2025. A related Walton facility is the Heartland Whole Health Institute, which is being built on the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art campus.
Niche.com rates Mary Mae Jones Elementary as #40 in Best Public Elementary Schools in Arkansas.
Ardis Ann Middle School is a highly rated, public school located in Bentonville.
Fulbright Junior High School is a top rated, public school located in Bentonville.
Bentonville High School is rated A+ by Niche.com
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Convenient access throughout the region via I-49
Interstate 49 is the primary corridor for travel through Northwest Arkansas. Rogers is just minutes away, and the interstate provides quick access to Springdale and Fayetteville. Northwest Medical Center is a centrally located facility that has been serving the city since 1942. Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas is right off I-49. Bentonville does not have comprehensive public transportation, but Ozark Regional Transit offers on-demand service to selected destinations and provides a paratransit service as well. The Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport is now the Northwest Arkansas National Airport. It offers travel to more than 25 destinations.
Crime
Bentonville’s rapid growth has resulted in some big-city problems, such as increased crime. However, the crime rate is still 36% below the national average, according to statistics released by the FBI in September of 2023. Both violent and property crimes are individually below the national average, with one in 308 people likely to experience violent crime and one in 84 likely to be a victim of a property crime. In 2022, the Bentonville Police Department introduced a community tool called Bentonville Citizen Connect. The app lets locals search specific areas for crime rates, report incidents and request service needs.
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Bentonville, AR sell after 47 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Bentonville, AR over the last 12 months is $491,062, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Immaculate 5,579 SF Hanover home offering timeless design, thoughtful updates, and abundant space for both everyday living and entertaining. The redesigned kitchen features high-end appliances, quartz countertops, and a large island. Two living areas with fireplaces, plus an upstairs bonus space with balcony, provide flexible living options. A dedicated office/den with built-ins, Trex deck, and
Christopher HutchensCollier & Associates- Rogers Branch
Welcome to effortless modern living in the heart of Bentonville. This newly constructed townhouse showcases exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful design, offering four spacious bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms—including two primary suites that provide flexibility for co-living, guests, or multi-generational living. The gourmet kitchen features high-end appliances that will delight any home chef,
Unbeatable location near Crystal Bridges Museum, the Alice Walton School of Medicine, Downtown Bentonville & Walmart’s new campus. Enjoy a vibrant community with top-tier amenities, including a clubhouse, pool, pickleball court, dog park, yard maintenance & access to the countries top premier mountain biking trails. Faulkner floor plan boasts LVP flooring, crown molding, blinds, ample storage &
Heather CampbellWeichert, REALTORS Griffin Company Bentonville
Fully updated Bentonville home on a spacious .37-acre lot, just minutes from Downtown, trails, and the new Walmart Home Office. This 3-bedroom charmer blends modern upgrades with a quiet, oversized backyard, giving you the perfect balance of convenience and breathing room. Step inside to a bright, move-in-ready interior with all-new cabinetry, counters, appliances, lighting, sinks, faucets,
From the beautiful covered front porch to the large, covered patio in the back, this home is meant to be enjoyed inside and out! Like new with designer finishes throughout. Open floor plan with vaulted ceilings and custom beams on the ceiling. Chefs’ kitchen with gas cooktop, quartz counters, Frigidaire pro series appliances, and walk in pantry. French doors to the study on the main level.
Location is everything in this updated 4 bed, 2 bath home offering 2,264 sf of living space. Positioned directly on the Razorback Greenway, it is a short 4-minute bike ride or 15-minute walk to the center of the new Wal-Mart campus. The home is currently operating as a successful Airbnb. The furnishings and decor are negotiable, allowing for a seamless turnkey opportunity. Inside, you will find a
From the welcoming front porch to the light-filled, open-concept interior, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home invites you to slow down and savor every moment. The kitchen is more than just stylish—it’s built for real life, with modern finishes, plenty of workspace, and a natural flow that brings everyone together. The primary suite has it all, featuring an upgraded tile shower and a timeless design that
Seller to pay up to $7k towards buyer's closing costs with acceptable offer!! Excellent condition, rare 4 bedroom home, in this subdivision, is an excellent choice for a growing family. Open floor plan makes this attractive home feel so spacious. Wood-look tile floors in the main living areas make it easy to clean. Gas stove for the family chef and in-line hot water heater, NEST thermostat. Roomy
NEW PRICE! Highly Coveted Southwest Bentonville Home! Welcome to this welcoming home in the sought-after Cornerstone neighborhood! This spacious property features an open floor plan with 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a versatile playroom—perfect for families or entertaining guests. Enjoy designer touches throughout, including crown molding, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and
Ready to shine bright? This is the one you've been waiting for! Nestled on a generous corner lot in vibrant downtown Bentonville, this spacious property offers rare potential under $1M. A unique find with room to create your dream lifestyle — think accessory dwelling unit (ADU), pool + pool house, or just enjoy the expansive layout as is.Step outside to upper-level composite decking for a
Designed for effortless entertaining, this exceptional residence offers a private in-ground pool, expansive patio, outdoor stereo, and firepit—creating a true backyard oasis. Set on a beautifully landscaped corner lot, the home provides direct gated access to the community walking trail, perfectly balancing privacy and convenience. The interior features 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 2
Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly sought-after Talamore community, this exceptional European-designed luxury estate sits on over 4 acres. Often described as a French Country Craftsman, the home offers three levels of contemporary elegance, including a full second kitchen and in-law suite at the walk-out basement level. Step outside to a covered patio with a gas fireplace—perfect for
Beautiful 7.5 acres in Bentonville that’s mostly flat, cleared, and build-ready. A pond and barn convey, offering immediate utility for storage, animals, or future hobby-farm plans. Plenty of room for a custom home, shop, and outdoor living while keeping wide-open views. You're less than 20 minutes from XNA and downtown Bentonville, this is for sure a property to see! This tract is being split
Prime secluded neighborhood location to build a new house or a townhouse/condo in this area. Only three-minute walk to vibrant downtown, to cemetery, parks like Gilmore and Jame Berry, behind Walmart old home office, and to the connecting Razorback green trail that goes all the way down to new Walmart campus. Excellent opportunity for investors, developers, homeowners, builders, or anyone wanting
Discover the perfect setting for your dream home on this beautiful 3.5-acre parcel, offering the ideal balance of open space and natural charm. The land features mostly level land with gentle contours and some mature hardwoods while remaining mostly open—perfect for designing a custom home, outdoor living spaces, and enjoying wide-open views. A 4-bedroom septic system is already installed, saving
Charming 3-bedroom home in the Cahill Subdivision, just minutes from downtown Bentonville and the Walmart Home Office. Hardwood flooring throughout with tile in the kitchen and bathroom. Spacious bedrooms, a deep one-car garage, and a huge backyard that is partially fenced for added privacy. Unbeatable location close to shopping, dining, and trails. **No Carpet** Refrigerator and washer/dryer
Welcome to 300 Windrift Avenue, a well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located in a quiet and desirable Bentonville neighborhood. This inviting property offers a comfortable, functional layout filled with natural light throughout. The spacious living areas are perfect for relaxing or entertaining, while the kitchen provides ample cabinet and counter space for everyday cooking and storage.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Regional Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, fenced in yard and all appliances included. 1 month free rent with all 1 year leases signed by March 1, 2026.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Regional Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, fenced in yard and all appliances included. 1 month free rent with all 1 year leases signed by March 1, 2026.
If you are looking to own a home in Bentonville around $450K, this is for you. These modern looking homes come with several upgrades such as quartz countertops, LVP flooring, Upgraded cabinets to the ceiling and EV Port. Home comes with washer/dryer.
If you are looking to own a home in Bentonville around $450K, this is for you. These modern looking homes come with several upgrades such as quartz countertops, LVP flooring, Upgraded cabinets to the ceiling and EV Port.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Regional Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, fenced in yard and all appliances included. 1 month free rent with all 1 year leases signed by November 1st, 2025.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Regional Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, fenced in yard and all appliances included. 1 month free rent with all 1 year leases signed by October 1st, 2025.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Reginal Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, fenced in yard and all appliances included. 1 month free rent for tenant with all 1-year leases signed by October 1, 2025.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Regional Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, fenced in yard and all appliances included. 1 month free rent with all 1 year leases signed by September 1st, 2025.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Regional Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, fenced in yard and all appliances included. 1 month free rent with all 1 year leases signed by September 1st, 2025.
Brand new duplexes in Bentonville close to NWA Regional Airport for lease. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car garage, LVP throughout home, granite countertops, ceiling fans, open floorplan, covered back patio for grilling/entertaining, and all appliances included. 1 month free rent for tenant with all 1 year leases signed by August 1, 2025.
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