Paragould, the seat of Greene County, Arkansas, gets its name from the intersection of two railroad paths owned by 19th-century industry moguls, J.W. Paramore and Jay Gould. It is the only city in the country with its name. Today, over 30,000 people live on the edge of Crowley’s Ridge, in a city affectionately nicknamed the Friendly City. “Everybody knows everybody, it’s a small town,” says Realtor Angelic Davis with Prestige Real Estate.
The railroad still plays a crucial role in the city’s economy, with Greenbrier Rail being one of the major employers. Others include manufacturing organizations like Tenneco, Inc. and Anchor Industries and healthcare facilities like Arkansas Methodist Medical Center.
Paragould earned its name from the two railroad moguls whose tracks intersected in the 1870s.
Major employers, such as Greenbrier Rail, play an important roll in Paragould's economy.
1/2
Median price significantly below national average
Many of the single-family homes in Paragould are ranch-style houses from the mid-to-late-20th century that have been renovated in the past few years. Older cottages and new construction are also available. The median price is $185,000, significantly less than the national figures from the National Association of Realtors. “It’s going to be cheaper than what Northwest Arkansas or central Arkansas will be,” Davis says. Undeveloped lots can start at about $7,000 but can exceed $450,000.
In Paragould, the majority of recently built homes have attached garages.
Ranch-style homes are a popular choice in Paragould.
1/2
School district hosts events for entire city
Paragould School District receives a B from Niche and hosts an annual pep rally that is open to the whole community. Private schools in the area include Crowley’s Ridge Academy, rated B-plus, and St. Mary’s Catholic School. Crowley’s Ridge College is a private, religious institution with four schools: arts and sciences, biblical studies, business and technology and teacher education.
St. Mary's Catholic School in Paragould maintains a student-teacher ratio of 10:1.
Crowley’s Ridge College in Paragould is a private, religious institution.
1/2
New bike lanes in car-dependent community
In late 2024, Paragould added a bike lane and expanded sidewalks to Court Street, one of the major thoroughfares in town. Otherwise, residents rely on their cars to get around. Highways include Business Route 412 and U.S. Route 49. Memphis, Tennessee is about 80 miles away and is home to the nearest airport: Memphis International Airport. About 94 miles away, it offers over 30 nonstop destinations. Jonesboro is the closest major city, about 22 miles away.
Chain restaurants, big-box retailers, and supermarkets can be found along Business Route 412 in Paragould.
One of the main thoroughfares in Paragould is U.S. Route 49, which travels roughly 22 miles to Jonesboro.
1/2
Downtown area home to museum and shops
Paragould’s Main Street adds to its small-town charm. “Downtown is home to some locally owned, unique little boutiques and shops,” Davis says. There are also museums, like the Greene County Museum, where the Paragould Meteorite is on display. In 1930, this meteor landed just outside the city and fractured into three pieces, the largest reportedly weighing over 800 pounds. The Collins Theater is another popular venue downtown, hosting concerts, plays and dances. “It used to be a movie theater,” Davis says. Fresh produce can be found at the Paragould Farmers Market on most Saturday mornings from May to October. Chain establishments and big-box stores like Walmart are along major roads like Business Route 412.
Many of the city’s local restaurants and shops can be found in Paragould's historic downtown district.
The history of the region is preserved at the Greene County Museum in Paragould.
1/2
Re-introducing Paragould tradition in 2025
Paragould's Loose Caboose Festival is a celebration of community themed around the railroads for which the city is named. Many other city events are put on by Downtown Paragould, which plans events like Downtown After Hours, a free concert series, and the Downtown Paragould Christmas Parade. The Greene County Fair has been running for over 130 years and is every Labor Day weekend.
Developing trail will lead to Crowley’s Ridge
There are several parks across town. Reynold Park is known for its 33-acre fishing lake, which is stocked with catfish, trout and largemouth bass. An ongoing project in the city is the 8 Mile Creek Trail. Almost half of the path is paved; the goal for the final is to lead to Crowley’s Ridge State Park. The ridge is a geological formation considered a former island along the Mississippi River. Today, its ecosystem encourages hardwood trees like sugar maple, which are rare in the region. At the Paragould Community Center, indoor recreation includes basketball, racquetball and pickleball. Outside are an inclusive playground, softball and soccer fields. It neighbors the city's aquatic center, which has indoor and outdoor swimming.
Enjoy the stunning views of Reynolds Park's 33-acre lake in Paragould.
Eventually, 8 Mile Creek Trail will be connected to Crowley's Ridge State Park in Paragould.
1/2
High humidity in Paragould
At the peak of summer, Paragould’s climate is hot and muggy. According to City Data, humidity levels are about 10% higher than the national average. The winters tend to be cold and dry. The city borders Arkansas's "tornado alley," making it prone to tornadoes.
Crime statistics for Paragould are not readily available.
Written By
Zia Sampson
Photography Contributed By
Mary Drost
Video By
Aiyshanti Green
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kyah Mancil,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
Welcome to this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath brick home located in the desirable Center Hill area! Featuring durable laminate flooring throughout, this all-electric home offers both comfort and efficiency. The updated kitchen provides a modern touch, while the spacious layout gives you room to live and entertain with ease. Step outside to enjoy the covered patio overlooking a fully fenced
Welcome to Market 1809 Woodland Dr, Paragould, AR! Fully updated and move-in ready! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features a desirable split floor plan with modern finishes throughout. Inside, you’ll find vinyl flooring throughout the entire home, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious primary suite complete with a walk-in shower and built-in storage in the walk-in closet. Major upgrades
Welcome to Market 2712 Oxford Street in Paragould, Arkansas. Built in 2013, this all-electric brick home offers approximately 1,809 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Sitting on a 0.35 +/- acre lot in the Carriage Hills subdivision, you’ll appreciate the large, well-maintained yard with plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors. Inside, the layout is functional and comfortable, with
Great investment opportunity with strong rental potential! This unique property features four single-family homes situated together, offering versatility and steady income possibilities. Three of the units offer 3 bedrooms, while one spacious unit features 4 bedroomsproviding a great mix for tenant demand. Each home is equipped with central HVAC for year-round comfort. Three of the properties
Welcome home! This cozy 3-bedroom, 1-bath home is perfect for first-time buyers or anyone looking for a great investment opportunity. You’ll love the comfortable layout and the detached garage that offers extra space for storage, hobbies, or a workshop. With a newer roof already in place, you can enjoy added peace of mind, and your insurance agent will thank you for it. Whether you're ready to
Great opportunity with two single-family homes on one lot! Whether you're looking for an income-producing property or a flexible living arrangement, this setup offers endless possibilities. Live in one home and use the second as a mother-in-law suite, guest house, or rental for additional income. Both homes provide great potential for investors or homeowners wanting to offset their mortgage with
Great investment opportunity with strong rental potential! This unique property features four single-family homes situated together, offering versatility and steady income possibilities. Three of the units offer 3 bedrooms, while one spacious unit features 4 bedrooms—providing a great mix for tenant demand. Each home is equipped with central HVAC for year-round comfort. Three of the properties
This well-maintained home offers a spacious layout, comfortable living areas, and a large backyard perfect for enjoying the outdoors. A large open foyer welcomes you inside and leads into the main living area, where the open living room features recessed lighting and a striking accent wall that creates a modern focal point while still feeling warm and inviting. Neutral paint throughout the home
This 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers the perfect blend of character and modern updates in a location that’s hard to beat. Inside, you’ll find rich hardwood floors, abundant natural light, and a spacious living area that feels warm and inviting. The formal dining space provides flexibility for hosting, a home office, or everyday use. Unique details like the wood ceiling add charm and personality you
Welcome to this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath brick home located in the desirable Center Hill area! Featuring durable laminate flooring throughout, this all-electric home offers both comfort and efficiency. The updated kitchen provides a modern touch, while the spacious layout gives you room to live and entertain with ease. Step outside to enjoy the covered patio overlooking a fully fenced
Welcome to Market 1809 Woodland Dr, Paragould, AR! Fully updated and move-in ready! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features a desirable split floor plan with modern finishes throughout. Inside, you’ll find vinyl flooring throughout the entire home, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious primary suite complete with a walk-in shower and built-in storage in the walk-in closet. Major upgrades
Wooded 4-acre tract with paved highway frontage in Greene County Tech School District. This property offers mature trees, sloping topography, and multiple potential building sites. City water and electric are available at Hwy 358 frontage (buyer to verify provider and connections). No septic system is currently installed. Includes an old frame structure and small shed, both sold at no value.
Wooded 4-acre tract with paved highway frontage in Greene County Tech School District. This property offers mature trees, sloping topography, and multiple potential building sites. City water and electric are available at Hwy 358 frontage (buyer to verify provider and connections). No septic system is currently installed. Includes an old frame structure and small shed, both sold at no value.
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 1,888 sq ft of comfortable living space! Completely remodeled approximately 10 years ago, this home blends modern updates with lasting charm. Recent improvements include a newer roof for added peace of mind. Situated on a desirable corner lot on the west side of town, the property features a fully fenced backyard—perfect for pets, play, or
Great opportunity with two single-family homes on one lot! Whether you're looking for an income-producing property or a flexible living arrangement, this setup offers endless possibilities. Live in one home and use the second as a mother-in-law suite, guest house, or rental for additional income. Both homes provide great potential for investors or homeowners wanting to offset their mortgage with
Choose from 3 spacious and well-designed living options, all fully equipped with fine amenities including all electric, washer and dryer, central heat and air and more! Carriage House is conveniently located close to Hwy 49 and we are a short walk to the new community center, restaurants and Wal-Mart. We serve both school districts of Greene County Tech and Paragould with buses picking up school
Be the very first to live in one of these lovely two bedroom, one bath units that has just been completed. All kitchen appliances are furnished. Separate laundry room. Open concept living room and dining room. Parking slab with bonus pad to park your side by side or boat. Covered front and back porch area to relax after a hard day at work. Pet friendly. Applications can be made online by visiting
Welcome to Silverwood Apartments in Paragould, Arkansas! Living in this beautifully developed apartment community provides everything you want right at home, in your own neighborhood. We are located convenient to Hwy 412 and Hwy 49 and just minutes to local restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Whether your preference is upstairs with added views or downstairs for convenience, your spacious
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
