An affordable economic and cultural hub in northeast Arkansas
Jonesboro, Northeast Arkansas’ largest city, offers its more than 81,000 residents a cost of living that is 17 percent below the national average. That makes Jonesboro one of the most cost-effective cities for its size in the country. It is also northeast Arkansas’ economic engine, as it is home to Arkansas State University and two health care systems. “The interesting thing is that we are seeing a lot of people moving in from other states because of home prices and job opportunities,” says Kimberly Moseley, a Realtor with New Horizon Real Estate. Residents also enjoy an emerging cultural scene and plenty of recreational opportunities among the landscape of the Natural State. “I’ve been here for 18 years, and just seeing the growth and the city adding amenities and attracting more people, it has dramatically changed,” Moseley says. “People come here from all over to shop, eat, go to ASU games. Jonesboro is pretty much the hub of northeast Arkansas.”
Ridgepoint offers residents the peace and quiet of rural life without being too far from town.
Rankins Oak Forest features a wide variety of home types and architectural styles.
Vibrant murals adorn the walls of downtown Jonesboro's historic buildings.
Arkansas State University is Jonesboro's largest employer.
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Arkansas State University, hospitals anchor the regional economy
Arkansas State University, located just east of downtown, is the city’s largest single employer. The public, 4-year research institution employs more than 2,800. St. Bernards Medical Center and NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital are flagship facilities of two health systems that have more than 7,000 regional employees. Walmart is the largest employer in the city’s retail trade industry.
Southview Acres is located about 15 minutes from St. Bernards Medical Center.
Ridgepoint residents can do their daily shopping at Walmart.
Arkansas State University is home to around 17,000 students.
Northeast Arkansas Area Baptist Hospital is one of the premiere hospitals in the region.
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Median price for new homes is among the best in the country
The median home sales price is under $250,000. Housing starts at well under $100,000 for small, traditional homes, but most housing ranges in price from the low $100,000s to the mid-400,000s. Ranch-style designs anchor an eclectic mix of homes that offer spacious or oversized lots. Contemporary, brick-built homes are prominent in walkable subdivision settings. “We have a lot of new homes being built,” Moseley says. “New construction is a big thing here.”
Renovations of historic homes downtown stand out. The largest and most expensive homes are concentrated on the west side of the city in settings that include the sought-after Ridgepoint golf course community. Prices typically range from about $450,000 to $1 million-plus. The city also offers a variety of condos. Prices range from the low $100,000s to the mid-$200,000s.
Ridgepoint homes feature spacious lots.
Briarwood is situated on Crowley's Ridge, giving the neighborhood rolling hills.
There are new developments popping up around Jonesboro every year.
Rankins Oak Forest features many unique homes on large lots.
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Jonesboro and Valley View school districts stand out among six total districts
The modern expansion of Jonesboro resulted from the annexation of smaller cities such as Valley View and Nettleton. These communities were allowed to keep their independent school districts. As a result, the city is served by six separate districts. The largest is the Jonesboro School District, which earns a B-plus from Niche. The highest rated is the Valley View School District, which earns an A-minus. “A lot of people want to live in certain school districts, mainly because of the bus routes,” Moseley says. “At the same time, we have school choice in Arkansas, so you can go to whichever school you want. We really do have great schools, though. There are a lot of options, even with private schools.” Ridgefield Christian School is a K-12 institution that Niche gives an A-minus and ranks as the 16th-best private school in the state.
Valley View Intermediate School is a highly rated public school for grades 3 through 6.
Briarwood's high schoolers attend The Academies at Jonesboro High School.
Ridgefield Christian School is a top rated private school in western Jonesboro.
Annie Camp Junior High School is a part of Jonesboro School District.
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Rejuvenated downtown district offers expanded entertainment options
Downtown Jonesboro has become the city’s premier destination. Restaurants, entertainment venues and boutique shops line the streets of a vibrant district that is a focus of growth. Craighead County is a dry county, meaning establishments can serve alcohol but not advertise. However, the city council recently voted in favor of a downtown entertainment district. The designation allows for taprooms, taverns, bars and private clubs. “The city has really renovated downtown,” Moseley says. “They’re trying to keep more college graduates here in the area instead of having them leave for Northwest Arkansas. The entertainment district just went into effect, and people can walk around downtown with alcohol on the weekends during certain hours. I think that was also done in the hopes of generating more sales for individual businesses.” Main Street, a buzzy thoroughfare filled with historic buildings, hosts popular festivals and parades throughout the year. Big-box retailers, grocery stores and an array of dining options are concentrated along several commercial corridors.
Briarwood is home to Ntive Brew Works, Jonesboro's first microbrewery.
The Forum is a performance space in downtown Jonesboro.
Jonesobor City Council voted to establish the Jonesobor Downtown Entertainment District in 2024.
Briarwood offers convenient access to local retail areas.
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Gearhead Outfitters has helped to upgrade Craighead Forest Park, other recreational centers
Craighead Forest Park is the highlight of the city’s 20 parks and sports complexes. The picturesque green space on Crowley’s Ridge is anchored by a lake and features an array of recreational options spread across almost 700 acres. Anglers can fish dockside or launch boats into the 60-acre lake, which also offers room for kayaks and paddleboats. Outdoors enthusiasts can even camp there. Visitors also have access to ballfields, athletic courts, a disc golf course, children’s playscapes and miles of walking trails. “What has really helped outdoors sports here is Gearhead Outfitters. They have provided opportunities and worked with the city to make parks, especially Craighead Forest, more attractive.” Other recreational destinations of note include Joe Mack Campbell Sports Complex and Miracle League Park, which features a large rubberized ballfield designed to accommodate children and adults with mental and physical limitations. The city is also home to five community centers. Jonesboro Country Club and RidgePointe Country Club offer 18-hole golf courses and additional resort-style amenities.
Rankins Oak Forest is located near Ridgepointe Country Club.
Joe Mack Campbell Park is a large city park near Rankins Oak Forest.
Ridgepoint is a 15 minute drive from Craighead Forest Park.
Wood Trace is only a 10 minute drive from Downtown Jonesboro's shops and restaurants.
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I-555 provides access in and around the city
The city does not have a traditional public transportation system, but Jonesboro Economical Transportation offers fixed-route and paratransit services within the city limits. North East Arkansas Transit offers a similar service for residents of rural areas. The Interstate 555 bypass runs through the city and provides access to a network of regional roadways in and around Jonesboro. I-555 becomes I-55 south of the city and leads directly to Memphis about 70 miles away. Memphis International is the closest commercial airport.
Crime
The Jonesboro Police Department recently released a 10-year crime report. The numbers show that most criminal offenses rose steadily starting in 2014 but peaked during the pandemic in 2020. Since then, crime rates have fallen steadily. In the latest 2024 monthly report, the rate of property crime remained the same year-over-year, but violent crime dropped about 20 percent.
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Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Aaron Bloodworth
Video By
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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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Jonesboro, AR sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Jonesboro, AR over the last 12 months is $234,500, up 11% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 3027 Fairview Dr, located in the heart of Jonesboro and within the Jonesboro School District. This brick and vinyl-sided home has been updated inside and out, including all-new exterior siding and windows. Inside, you’ll find new LVP flooring, fresh paint throughout, new kitchen cabinets and countertops, a new stove, and an updated bathroom with a new vanity and tub/shower combination.
Welcome to Market 4687 Hwy 141 N in Jonesboro, AR within the Jonesboro School District. Priced below current appraisal. Situated on 15.2 ± acres just outside city limits, this 2023 built, 2-story barndominium offers 3,280 sf of living space and a rare combination of gated entrance, circle drive, beautiful landscaping, 9 ± fenced acres, stocked pond, and saltwater inground pool creating an outdoor
Welcome to Market 2305 Paula Dr. in Jonesboro, AR in the Robinwood Subdivision within the Jonesboro School District. This recently renovated 3,965 sf traditional home offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and sits on a .44 ac +/- corner lot. The 1,855 sf main level features a foyer, living room w/ gas log fireplace, sunroom w/ exterior access and an eat-in kitchen w/ a large island w/ breakfast bar,
Affordable, Move-In Ready Home in a Prime Jonesboro Location! Looking for an affordable, move-in ready home in Jonesboro? This centrally located 3-bedroom, 1-bath home is ready for its next owner after more than 20 years of being lovingly cared for by the current owner. Location is key! Situated directly across from Turtle Creek Mall, you'll have shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday
Room to spread out on 1.47 acres! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers 1,368 sq ft of comfortable living space, topped with a durable, low-maintenance metal roof built to handle Arkansas weather. Beyond the main home, you'll find a versatile shop building — perfect for a workshop, extra storage, hobby space, or housing equipment and toys. Whether you're looking for elbow room, a place to
Beautiful brick home tucked away in a peaceful cul-de-sac, offering both privacy and convenience. Step inside to a welcoming foyer with a formal dining room just off the entryperfect for hosting. The spacious living room features a vaulted wood plank ceiling and a stunning floor-to-ceiling wood-burning fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The oversized primary suite includes a
Location, Location, Location! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch-style home is nestled in the desirable Melton Addition and has been beautifully updated inside, making it truly move-in ready. Updates include fresh paint, refreshed kitchen cabinets, a stylish backsplash, updated light fixtures, a relaxing soaker tub, and so much more. Conveniently located in the heart of Jonesboro, this home
Enjoy the charm of early 1900s character paired with thoughtful modern updates in this well-maintained Folk Victorian home set on a shaded corner lot just minutes from downtown Jonesboro. This two-story property offers 2,564 square feet of living space with a flexible layout that works well for both everyday living and entertaining. The main level features a welcoming living room, a cozy second
Enjoy a private backyard setting with a tree-lined view, wood privacy fencing, and a newly extended covered deck that gives you plenty of space for morning coffee, grilling, or relaxing outdoors. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1,494 square feet with a comfortable open floor plan and a spacious living area. New flooring throughout gives the interior a fresh feel, while the primary suite
Welcome home to this classic beauty nestled in the highly desirable Melton Addition, where timeless charm meets modern comfort. From the moment you step inside, you'll appreciate the beautiful hardwood floors that flow throughout the home and into the spacious living room, highlighted by a stunning wood-burning fireplace. The roomy kitchen offers abundant cabinet storage, generous counter space,
Welcome to Market 717 Melton Dr. in Jonesboro, AR within the Jonesboro School District. This contemporary-style home offers 2,528 sf and 272 sf in the heated & cooled basement, all situated on .39 acres +/- in the Midtown area of Jonesboro. Wrapped in wood and accented by large windows, the home features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage w/ storage rooms. All bedrooms are upstairs,
Welcome to 3027 Fairview Dr, located in the heart of Jonesboro and within the Jonesboro School District. This brick and vinyl-sided home has been updated inside and out, including all-new exterior siding and windows. Inside, you’ll find new LVP flooring, fresh paint throughout, new kitchen cabinets and countertops, a new stove, and an updated bathroom with a new vanity and tub/shower combination.
Stop what you are doing and take a look at this. Located in the hilltop area, this home is convenient to NEA hospital, Nettelton public schools and local eats. With a recent updates and a great layout, you'll want to see this in person. The kitchen has quartz countertops, roof is 2 years old, and 3 year old water heater will give a first time home buyer peace of mind. Not to mention a great size
This custom brick home offers the perfect combination of style, comfort, and room to spread out! Featuring 4 Bedrooms & 2 baths on the main level and a 5th bedroom & half bath upstairs. Step inside to an inviting open floor plan with raised ceilings flowing through the living room, kitchen, and dining area. The living room is anchored by a stunning floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace with gas logs
Welcome to Market 4687 Hwy 141 N in Jonesboro, AR within the Jonesboro School District. Priced below current appraisal. Situated on 15.2 ± acres just outside city limits, this 2023 built, 2-story barndominium offers 3,280 sf of living space and a rare combination of gated entrance, circle drive, beautiful landscaping, 9 ± fenced acres, stocked pond, and saltwater inground pool creating an outdoor
Welcome to The Raphael, where modern living meets exceptional amenities in the heart of Jonesboro. Our beautifully renovated apartment homes feature stylish finishes, updated interiors, and spacious layouts designed to elevate your everyday living experience.Residents enjoy an incredible collection of newly renovated community amenities, including a resort-style swimming pool,
Fully Occupied — JOIN OUR WAITLIST!We are currently fully leased, but we are accepting applications for our waitlist. Please give us a call, and we would be happy to send you an application.Availability is subject to change as future openings become available.We’re a pet-friendly, smoke-free community! Give us a call or send us an email to schedule a tour, book an in-person
We’re a pet-friendly, smoke-free community! Give us a call or send us an email to schedule a tour, book an in-person appointment, or get answers to your questions.The Brody - 1/1 - 665 sq ft - 12 months ($985), 9 months ($1010), 6 months ($1035), 3 months ($1085)The Bryce - 2/1 - 865 sq ft - 12 months ($1025), 9 months ($1050), 6 months ($1075), 3 months ($1125)The Bennet - 2/2 -
Life is exciting in downtown Jonesboro. Located just steps away from the best dining and entertainment, University Lofts, is a brand-new luxury living complex, offering furnished 1-bedroom lofts. With an onsite gym, free Wi-Fi, in – unit washer & dryer, gated parking, and the best views downtown has to offer. University Lofts is truly a one of a kind living experience.Gated Parking
Welcome to The Urban Loft Co. at Greensborough Village! Looking for luxury unique loft living? Our amazing community of furnished housing, puts you in the heart of the best food and entertainment the city has to offer. This modern community is where residents come for an active and connected lifestyle. Find yourself in the middle of all the action, and explore everything Jonesboro, AR has to
Allow us to captivate and spoil you in the relaxing, maintenance-free South Jonesboro apartment home of Willow Creek. Willow Creek captures the small town flavor of Jonesboro in this master planned community. Enjoy luxurious comforts in our apartment homes with spacious floor plans and beyond. Stroll through an awe-inspiring landscape, bask by the pool, or catch up on work in the state-of-the-art
SEPTEMBER 2026 RENT SPECIAL Place Deposit Today and Receive $75 Off Per Month on 2-Bedroom/2-Bathroom Apartments!*Requires a 12Mo. Lease | Limited Time Offer | Restrictions Apply | Call for Complete Details*Welcome to The Links at Jonesboro Apartments in Jonesboro, Arkansas! Living in this beautifully developed apartment community provides everything you want right at
Infused with all the modern conveniences, The Reserve at Sage Meadows takes full advantage of the pastoral surroundings and golf course views unique to Sage Meadows. Enjoy the privacy and comfort offered by our gated community while being minutes from NEA Baptist, Arkansas State, and the exciting growth of the north side of Jonesboro. Come home to a golf course view in Jonesboro Luxury
Experience the ideal blend of convenience, comfort, and community at DLP Jonesboro. Located just minutes from downtown Jonesboro and Arkansas State University, our pet-friendly community offers a peaceful retreat where lush green landscapes, modern amenities, and inviting spaces come together to create a place you’ll love to call home.Choose from our stylish one, two, and three-bedroom
Welcome to Deerfield Crossing—the area’s most exclusive and luxurious gated townhouse community. Open floor plans, stained concrete floors, high ceilings, crown molding, and covered parking leave little to be desired. Their ideal location puts professionals minutes from NEA Baptist and Arkansas State. Families enjoy the benefits of being in the Brookland School District, along with a number of
The Landing at Greensborough Village is centurally located where you can eat, shop, and play! We have a heart for Jonesboro and are truly excited to bring a luxury apartment complex to Jonesboro's first and only city within a city. Take a tour with us and see what low maintenance, luxury living is all about at The Landing at Greensborough Village.
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