Two cities became one in 2006
Helena-West Helena is the tale of two Louisiana cities uniting after consolidation in 2006. Located off the Mississippi River, the city is known for its Civil War history. "Helena-West Helena has a timeless feel. Some areas truly remind you of stepping into a scene from Gone With the Wind," says Glenn McDonald, a local Realtor and appraiser with Integrated Assets Realty. The combined cities are also considered the birthplace of delta blues music, one of the first styles in the blues genre. "It's a small Southern town that still has that 'classic Americana' vibe—quiet streets, small parks, town squares, familiar faces and a slower pace of life," says McDonald. "I've worked with buyers from Memphis and North Mississippi who purchase homes here as weekend getaways or quiet retreats. They like the peace and the ability to invest in something with potential."
Buying a home or investment property in Helena-West Helena
The city has several historic houses from the early 1900s, especially along Perry Street. "There are large, Victorian-style homes that have incredible character and are often priced well below market value," McDonald says. "You can get them for a steal, but they usually require renovation and reliable contractors to bring them back to life." There are also American Foursquares, ranch-styles and shotgun houses.
The median price for a single-family home is around $85,000. Less than half of residents are homeowners. "I've worked with clients who have turned their properties into short-term rentals like Airbnb. Some use it as a second home; others are looking to invest in properties they can renovate and rent out," McDonald says. Home prices are significantly lower than in larger cities like Memphis and Little Rock. "Financing here can be a hurdle. Some buyers face challenges with lending due to the area's rural nature and lower comps," McDonald says. "Still, there's significant upside for cash buyers and investors."
Local parks put history on display
The eastern section of the community contains multiple public green spaces. Helena River Park is a spot to fish along the boardwalk and launch a small boat into the water. The on-site trail leads directly to Historic Downtown Helena. Many locals and visitors will camp at the park during the King Biscuit Blues Festival. "There's a lot of Civil Rights and Delta history here, like the Delta Cultural Center and memorials downtown," McDonald says. "Helena played a role during the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. It's a powerful reminder of the area's legacy." The cultural center manages green spaces like Battery C. Historical Park and the landmark New Fort Curtis. Freedom Park has an outdoor exhibit of educational signs and statues commemorating local African American experiences during the war.
U.S. Highway 49B has shopping and casual eateries
Most dining is off U.S. Highway 49B and to the east, in downtown. "There's a lot of character around Court Square Park in downtown. It's the kind of place where you can find local art, live blues music and good Southern cooking," McDonald says. The area has a variety of cuisines, but Southern-style seafood and barbecue are among the local favorites. To the east awaits casual establishments like Biscuit Row BBQ and Delta Que & Brew. Further west, at Delta Fish Market Bar & Grill, patrons can order fried catfish, ribs and frog legs. The U.S. 49 business route leads to a Hays Supermarket and Walmart Supercenter.
King Biscuit Blues Festival is a local favorite
King Biscuit Blues Festival is a four-day event where locals celebrate the city's musical roots through stage and street performances. The festival was birthed from the "King Biscuit Time," the longest-running radio show in the country. "The festival is one of the city's biggest traditions," McDonald says. "I've seen people hang those festival posters like artwork in their homes. It's more than just an event. It's part of the city's identity. It draws people from all over the region."
Learning with public schools, KIPP charters or Phillips Community College
Helena-West Helena School District was formed in 1946, well before the cities consolidated. The district and its only two schools have C-minus grades on Niche. J.F. Wahl Elementary accepts kindergarteners to sixth graders. Students between seventh and twelfth grade attend Central High. KIPP: Delta Public Schools provides charter options for local families. Phillips Community College of the University of Arkansas has been a part of the area since 1965. The two-year institution offers certificates and associate degrees.
Traveling to nearby towns and cities on local highways
The city has medical offices such as UAMS Health - Family Medical Center and Progressive Health of Helena. U.S. 49B and Arkansas Highway 185 connect the two sections of the city. Crossing over the Helena Bridge, along U.S. 49, brings commuters across the border into Mississippi, within 7 miles. "The bridge into Mississippi connects Helena to nearby Tunica and Clarksdale just a short drive away," McDonald says. "There's a lot of regional movement that adds to Helena's appeal, especially for those looking to get away without being too far removed."
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
