"The Brick Capital of the World" sits on the edge of the Ouachita Mountains
How does a city get built? In Malvern, the answer is brick by brick — literally. Thanks to three Acme Brick plants that use locally sourced clay, Malvern calls itself “The Brick Capital of the World.” The city of around 11,000 is the seat of Hot Spring County and sits on the eastern edge of the Ouachita Mountains. Downtown buildings are made of different shades of clay, giving them a historic feel, and several brick-related events are held throughout the year.
Outside of brickmaking, many locals work in the education services field. A 150-acre industrial park near Interstate 30 is being cleared to make room for more businesses. Malvern’s lower home prices and location near the Ouachita River also attract homebuyers.
An aerial view of the Ouachita Mountains near Malvern, where rolling peaks stretch across the horizon.Stacks of freshly made bricks at Acme Brick Company in Malvern, showcasing the city's industrial roots.
Stacks of freshly made bricks at Acme Brick Company in Malvern, showcasing the city's industrial roots.
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Brick homes with large lots at below-median prices
Homes have a median price of about $160,000, well below the state median. Brick homes from the 1970s are popular. Lots and large parcels of land are also available. Jason Edington, a Realtor and executive broker with Keller Williams Realty, says Arkansas locals tend to prefer living on the city's outskirts, as the lots are large enough that residents often won’t see or hear their neighbors. “The value is better than in Arkadelphia or Hot Springs, and you’re still close to the interstate,” Edington says.
Another charming brick home in Malvern, reflecting the city’s rich tradition in brick craftsmanship.
A classic brick home in Malvern, blending timeless design with small-town warmth.
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Short distances from Hot Springs and Little Rock
U.S. Route 67 cuts through downtown Malvern. South Main Street turns into Highway 9 and leads out of the city. Interstate 30 runs just north of the city. The resort city of Hot Springs is about 20 miles northwest. Little Rock, around 45 miles northeast, is home to Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, which has domestic flights to several destinations. The South Central Arkansas Transit program provides point-to-point transportation with advance notice. Baptist Health Medical Center-Hot Spring County is a 72-bed hospital with a Level IV trauma center.
Just a short drive from Malvern, visitors unwind and explore the lively charm of Hot Springs.
Locals from Malvern enjoy a relaxing day in nearby Hot Springs, a favorite weekend escape.
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Ouachita River Whitewater Park has water sports and fishing
The area’s parks focus on recreation. Ouachita River Whitewater Park, about three miles northwest of downtown, provides access to the river and offers kayaking and fishing. Floating down the river, starting at the Remmel Dam, is also an option. “I grew up floating the rivers in the summer, and doing it in Malvern is my favorite because that water is so cold,” Edington says. Malvern City Park has athletic facilities and a playground. Less than 20% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, well below the urban U.S. average.
The Ouachita River winds near Malvern, offering a scenic spot for reflection, fishing, and outdoor adventure.
Malvern locals float peacefully on a nearby lake, soaking up the sun and the slower pace of the weekend.
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The Malvern Rodeo has been held annually for more than 70 years
The Hot Spring County Museum showcases artifacts from the area’s history inside the Boyle House, a two-story home built in 1893. The Arkansas Yarn Co. hosts knitting classes and has a custom dyeing studio. Game Craz Arcade has foosball and air hockey tables alongside retro arcade games.
Cruise Nite in Malvern is a series of car shows held once per month from April to October. Other events are held at the Hot Spring County Fairgrounds, including the Malvern Rodeo, which has been held annually for more than 70 years.
Diamond State Moto Complex, around 5 miles from Malvern, has four motocross tracks and offers several training programs.
Malvern High School football games bring the community together
Students are served by the Malvern School District, which has a B-minus Niche grade. The district serves nearly 2,000 students across four schools. Malvern High School earns an individual B score. Edington says the school's football games draw large crowds on Friday nights.
Malvern High School, home of the Leopards, where pride runs deep and futures take shape.
Malvern Middle School stands as a cornerstone of the community, where students learn, grow, and connect.
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South Main Street is the city's shopping hub
Retail boutiques and other stores are congregated along South Main Street. Dining options are a mix of chain restaurants and local eateries. El Parian Mexican Restaurant serves authentic cuisine. A Walmart Supercenter is flanked by Larry’s Pizza, McDonald’s and other fast food places. The Hot Spring County Farmers Market is held on Friday mornings.
Charming local boutiques line Main Street in Malvern, offering unique finds and friendly hometown service.
A shopper browses inside a Malvern boutique, enjoying the cozy charm of local retail.
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Hot summers and wet winters
Malvern’s violent crime and property crime rates have dropped in recent years. Both rates are above national averages. Malvern experiences four seasons. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are wet. Hot Spring County is at a moderate risk of hail, flooding and strong winds.
Written By
Ryan Kohn
Photography Contributed By
Justin Prokop
Video By
Joan Wall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Selina Felton,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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Located just outside the Donaldson city limits in the Ouachita School District, this thoughtfully designed custom-built home on 3.15 acres offers quality construction, flexible space and modern efficiency. The exterior features LP Smart Siding with a 50-year warranty, a welcoming wrap-around porch, and a spacious back deck overlooking the backyard. A storage shed and whole-home backup generator
YOUR TURN! This property is a blank slate ready for your vision. It has been taken down to the studs and been given a new roof, windows, sliding patio door, subfloors, framing, plumbing, and an entire new HVAC system. Whose ready for their next project? AGENTS READ REMARKS
This charming 4-Bedroom 2 Bathroom Brick home thoughfully updated situated on a spacious 1.73 -acre lot, fully fenced front and back yard. this property has a new roof, new hot water heater, HVAC system 3-4 years, fireplace incert for comfort and peace of mind. Additional features 1 two story shop. 1 16x16 block building in back yard. 1 covered boat cover or carport 20x25. Located in a highly
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot with potential Ouachita River view and near the White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot with potential Ouachita River view and near the White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
Prime residential lot near the Ouachita River and White Water Park. City utilities at street. Buy it now and get those dreams moving forward. Convenient to interstate with short commute to Hot Springs, Benton, Little Rock, or Arkadelphia.
One bedroom apartment totally new with all bills paid! This apartment is brand new from the floors up. New appliances, new cabinets, new lights, new porch, new bathroom, new wall covering, new paint, new heat and air system. Rent includes electric bill and water. ALL BILLS PAID! 2 Bedroom 1Bath also at 1328 Lincoln Unit A available. ALL BILLS PAID. $1,150
Beautiful remodel on this unique 3 bed 1 bath home. Central air and heat, all new kitchen and appliances, new bathroom, big corner lot. Lots to love in this one!
Just totally remodeled 1 bedroom home in North Malvern. Perfect for one or two people. All new kitchen, cabinets, range, refrigerator, new flooring throughout entire house. All new bathroom with new toilet , new vanity, new shower. Completely repainted. Ready to move in.
Custom built 1 bedroom 1 bath home. Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank floors, central air and heat, washer and dryer.
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