A city trying to move forward with a shrinking population
Once a prosperous agricultural and manufacturing hub, Pine Bluff has struggled to move forward amid economic setbacks, educational disparities and high crime rates. This Arkansas Delta city about 45 miles south of Little Rock lost almost 13 percent of its population between 2010 and 2020, the highest in the nation. During that time the local school district was taken over by the state. Since then officials have made a concerted effort to reshape Pine Bluff. The city welcomed a casino, downtown revitalization is in the works, and the state recently voted unanimously to return the school district to local control. Pine Bluff also has a new mayor, former state representative Vivian Flowers. Her first order of business was to create transition committees targeting improvements in several areas, including the budget, education and public safety. For the first time in decades, there is hope for a brighter future in Pine Bluff.
Pine Bluff is pushing to move forward after a rough economic past and declining population.
The downtown district of Pine Bluff is pushing through economic struggles.
1/2
Delta Rhythm & Bayous Cultural District is the city's signature project
The city’s signature project is the creation of the Delta Rhythm & Bayous Cultural District in downtown. Plans include an outdoor plaza and blues memorial honoring many of the genre’s greats; the nation’s first park honoring the segregation-era Chitlin’ Circuit; and an outdoor cinema dedicated to regional stars of film, television and theater. Downtown is already home to a collection of historical murals. The district is projected to generate $13.6 million in tourist spending and a total economic impact of $18.2 million annually. Also, Go Forward Pine Bluff recently received a grant of more than $500,000 from the federal government to help fund efforts to attract more businesses to the U.S. Highway 63 corridor south of the downtown riverfront.
The Jefferson County Courthouse is a cool architectural design in Pine Bluff.
There are several different activities to enjoy throughout downtown Pine Bluff.
1/2
Lake Saracen, Arkansas River, Jefferson County Regional Park are recreational highlights
Pine Bluff has always offered easy access to outdoor recreation. Residents can fish from the banks of Lake Saracen downtown, take advantage of the pavilion at Saracen Landing and enjoy a waterfront walking trail. More trails can be found at Delta Rivers Nature Center, which features exhibits illustrating the state's natural history. On the other side of the nature center is the Arkansas River, a haven for boaters and anglers. Nestled along its shores is Jefferson County Regional Park, the largest of the city’s 19 parks. Featured amenities include boat ramps that provide access to the river and Lake Langhofer, a softball complex and an 18-hole golf course. More golf is available to members of the private Pine Bluff Country Club. The city’s newest recreational facility is an aquatic center, which has quickly become a regional destination. Popular attractions include the Arkansas Railroad Museum and Saracen Casino Resort, which opened in 2020. A $250 million hotel and event center is slated to open on the casino grounds in the fall of 2025.
Pine Bluff Regional Park has several playground options for kids to enjoy.
Lake Sarecen is a great place to enjoy some boating activities in Pine Bluff.
1/2
Cozy older homes make up the majority of housing
The median home price in Pine Bluff is slightly under $100,000. Smaller, older homes are common in the heart of the city. Midcentury ranch-style designs are prominent among homes offering more interior space and larger lots in wooded settings. These options are typically found on the west and south sides. Residents enjoy a temperate climate with all four seasons. Summers are hot, and winters are cold but short. Extreme temperatures are rare. The city averages 54 inches of precipitation per year, which includes the occasional blanketing of snow.
Smaller, older homes are common in the heart of Pine Blulff.
Some of the homes in Pine Bluff are located along Lake Saracen.
1/2
New high school campus expected to open in 2026
The state took over the Pine Bluff School District amid financial problems and low test scores. The 2023 vote to return local control was unanimous. Niche currently gives the district a grade of D-plus. The city is also home to the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff.
There are many activities to enjoy at Dollarway High School.
Younger students in the area may attend Southwood Elementary.
1/2
Primary commercial corridor is 28th Avenue
Shopping and dining options are concentrated along 28th Avenue, a centrally located commercial corridor. The downtown area offers a variety of dining destinations. A food truck park featuring regional cuisine is planned for the Delta Rhythm & Bayous Cultural District.
Captured Moments offers great options for local goods in Pine Blulff.
Find new sports apparel at Hibbett Sports in Pine Bluff.
1/2
Crime dropped in 2023, but rates remain higher than state, national averages
The police department’s latest annual crime report showed that the city’s overall crime rate dropped 10.9 percent in 2023. However, the 11.7 percent decrease in overall property crime was offset by a 40 percent increase in homicides. Overall crime rates remained higher than the state and national averages. The department’s mid-year 2024 report showed that rates were flat year-over-year. An interactive website was created in 2023 as part of the department’s efforts to keep residents informed about public safety and related initiatives.
Little Rock is accessible via I-530
Pine Bluff is relatively easy to get around by bus or car. Local points of interest include Jefferson Regional Medical Center on 40th Avenue. Interstate 530 provides access to the state capital of Little Rock and the Clinton National Airport.
Pine Bluff residents can take a short drive to Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport for travel needs.
There are many public bus stops throughout Pine Bluff.
1/2
Written By
Matt Pallister
Photography Contributed By
Zach Manwell
Video By
Daniel Quattro
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Pamela Barker,
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
On average, homes in Pine Bluff, AR sell after 170 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Pine Bluff, AR over the last 12 months is $295,000.
AUCTION LOCATION: 213 Haynes Drive, Pine Bluff, AR 71603 (PROPERTY 1) 213 Haynes Drive is a 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath, Split-Level Brick & Frame Home with 2,275± Square Feet of Living Area Space & a 1-Car Garage. (PROPERTY 2) 216 Haynes Drive is a 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath, 1-Story Brick Home with 2,156± Square Feet of Living Area Space & a 2-Car Carport. Remember, these Two Properties Will be Sold
A beautiful single-family home total remodel from top to bottom, new floors, walls, the kitchen is drop dead gorgeous. The home is located at 1300 W 28th Ave in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, within the Linden Heights Addition subdivision. Built in 1949, the home offers approximately 2,541 square feet of living space, all on a single story. The structure features brick exterior walls, a composition
3 bedroom, 1 bath home in need of extensive repairs. Property is being sold as-is and will require significant renovation throughout. Owner financing is available with acceptable terms. Property will be conveyed by Limited Warranty Deed or Quit Claim Deed. Ideal opportunity for investors or buyers looking for a full rehabilitation project. No utilities are on; buyer to verify all information
Your NEW HOME sits on a little more than 1 Acre of land & is ALL NEW!! The following outlines a few of the BRAND NEW UPDATES that have been made: NEW DRIVEWAY W/EXTRA PARKING PAD, NEW ROOF, NEW HVAC, NEW WATER HEATER, NEW ELECTRICAL, NEW PLUMBING, NEW INTERIOR PAINT, ALL NEW LIGHTING FIXTURES (CEILING FANS IN BEDS & LIVING), NEW RECESS LIGHTING & NEW LVP FLOORING THRU-OUT!! NEW ROMAN SMOOTH ROUND
Just outside the community of Sulphur Springs in Jefferson County, Arkansas, this beautiful 5-acre parcel offers the perfect blend of privacy and convenience. The property is heavily wooded with a mix of mature pine and hardwood trees, creating an ideal setting for a homesite, weekend retreat, or recreational getaway.Utilities are available at the road, making future development even more
Discover the perfect blend of accessibility and seclusion with this 20.11 acre tract of land. Ideally situated just 5 miles South of I530, short distance from the convenience of town. This property offers the ultimate canvas for your vision. Highway frontage gives excellent visibility and easy access for residential, recreational, hobby farm or potential commercial development. This land is
This property is located in a prime location, A Business District with commercial and government offices. Are you an investor looking for that great opportunity? "Optional Owner Financing is available with no credit check. Terms: 10-20% down; 6.5% simple interest, 1-5 years, 10 years max." And the best part is 423 W. Barraque Street Pine Bluff AR next-door is also available for sale
This sale includes both buildings. The front home features 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms downstairs, with 2 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom upstairs. The second building has 2 apartments downstairs with 2 full bathrooms, and 2 bedrooms with 1 full bathroom upstairs. Both buildings have been recently remodeled and equipped with a fire sprinkler system. Interior features include luxury vinyl and original
Investment Opportunity! Well-maintained 5-unit efficiency apartment complex offering immediate income potential. All five units are currently leased with strong rental history, generating approximately $2,000 per month in rental income. A new roof was installed in 2025, providing added value and reducing future capital expenses. Property features low-maintenance efficiency units, making it an
Beautiful waterfront home on a quiet dead-end road with direct water access and a large dock for boating and fishing. The elevated living area is located entirely upstairs and sits above the flood elevation, supported by a current elevation certificate. The lower level is used as garage, workshop, storage, and utility space, providing exceptional flexibility. The upper level features all
Investor special duplex opportunity with upside potential. Property was acquired through a tax auction sale and will convey with a Limited Warranty Deed only. Seller will not provide title insurance. Property is being sold strictly AS-IS, WHERE-IS with no repairs or warranties expressed or implied. This duplex is currently NOT habitable and will require extensive rehabilitation prior to
Step into a home that blends timeless character with modern updates. Featuring original hardwood flooring throughout, this property has been newly remodeled and is ready for its next chapter. Whether you're looking for a solid investment opportunity, a place to call home for you and your family, or you're a first-time homebuyer, this property checks the boxes. The home comes equipped with stove,
Investor Alert! Don't miss this rent-ready 4-plex in White Hall offering strong cash flow potential! Each unit features 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, with Units 3 & 4 completely updated including fresh interior paint, new flooring, modern light fixtures, and new water heaters. Three of the four units have new HVAC systems, and the property also boasts a new roof and new exterior plumbing for peace of
THE PROPERTY WAS COMPLETELY RENOVATED IN 2018, FEATURING A NEW ROOF, 2 NEW WATER HEATERS, AND THE TRANSFORMATION OF CARPORT SPACE INTO A MASTER BEDROOM SUITE WITH A FULL BATH AND SITTING AREA. THERE ARE TOO MANY UPGRADES TO LIST. THE BACKYARD INCLUDES A SEPARATE BUILDING SUITABLE FOR A MAN-CAVE OR SHOP WITH ELECTRICITY. THE TOTAL 3.81 ACRES FEATURES A BEAUTIFULLY MANICURED LAWN.
This 2 bed, 1 bath unit has everything you need! Enjoy a kitchen equipped with a refrigerator and stove/oven, plus the convenience of washer & dryer connections—making everyday living that much easier. Visit www.homesofarkansas.com to apply!
Welcome to The Kenwood, a newly renovated apartment community in Pine Bluff, AR. With extensive property-wide improvements nearing completion, residents can enjoy refreshed apartment homes, modern finishes, and upgraded community spaces. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and everyday essentials, The Kenwood offers comfortable living with a fresh new look. Come experience the exciting
REMAX Platinum offering newly remodeled 1 Bedroom 1 Bath apartments in Pine Bluff! Close to Super 1, Relyance Bank, and several convenient stores and restaurants! Water PAID! Tenants have to pay Electricity that's it! Rent $600/month Deposit is $300 Section 8 accepted! NO PETS!!! Refrigerator and Stove Included! Call the office today!
Welcome to Sunset Village Apartments - Your Ideal Pine Bluff Retreat! Find your perfect fit among our six diverse floor plans, including spacious townhomes, in a community designed for your lifestyle and convenience. From 24-hour access and laundry facilities to a playground, tennis court, and picnic area, Sunset Village has everything you need to feel right at home. Our prime Pine Bluff location
Nice 2-bedroom, 1 bath home conveniently located near shopping, banking, and restaurants. This home features an enclosed porch as well as a 1 car garage. Pet friendly, but pets must be approved prior to leasing. To apply, please visit www.homesofarkansas.com.
Welcome home to Camelot Townhouses & Apartments. We are conveniently located close to medical centers, shopping centers, restaurants and fine schools. Take time to stop by and check out the spacious one, two and three bedroom floor plans, where our professional management team will be glad to assist you. We offer a variety of amenities to suit all of your needs.Camelot Townhouses and
Newly updated, one bedroom, one bathroom unit. Appliances and water services are included. To apply, please visit www.homesofarkansas.com. Vinyl floors, Walk-in closets, some* wheelchair accessible, Window coverings.
Now available! This nice 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom second-floor apartment offers 680 sq. ft. of comfortable living space. The apartment includes a refrigerator, stove, heat, air conditioning, vinyl flooring, window coverings, a shared balcony, and is wheelchair accessible. Water, sewer, and trash are all included in the rent. No pets allowed.
Independent Living is for seniors who are able to live on their own in an apartment or house, but who want the conveniences of living within a community that provides amazing customer service!
Cozy Remodeled 1 Bedroom Apartment – $500/Month Recently remodeled 1 bedroom, 1 bath apartment offering efficient living with modern updates. This unit features a built-in bed frame and dresser, maximizing space and convenience. Equipped with a window unit for heating and cooling and a security screen door for added peace of mind. Tenant is responsible for water, electric, and gas. Rent: $500 per
At Studio One Apartments in Pine Bluff we pride ourselves with having some of the nicest apartments in town to enjoy living in... we believe It's not enough to just have a place to live. We want our tenants to be glad they live in a place they are proud to call home. In 2010 Studio One was purchased by new owners and underwent a major Remodel. The complex was totally upgraded from the ground up.
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.
