Searcy has reinvented itself many times in the last 200 years, down to its name. In the 19th century, it was called White Sulphur Springs after its natural hot springs. Two centuries later, thousands of jobs in shale drilling supported the town in the 2000s. After the natural gas boom subsided, Harding University became one of Searcy’s biggest employers and transformed the city of 23,800 people into a modern college town. The university and other job opportunities at Walmart Distribution and Unity Health have led to a citywide growth spurt. “When I went away to college in 1991, our main street was just a little two-lane road, and now it’s the biggest road in town,” says Lee Teed, a lifelong Searcy local and an executive broker with Re/Max Advantage. “When I’m driving out of town, I’ll see the new construction where the town used to end.”
Originally established as Harding College in Morrilton, Arkansas, in 1924, Harding relocated to Searcy in 1934 and became a university in 1979.
Once a little two-lane road, Searcy's Main Street is today a busy thoroughfare.
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Harding University and Harding Academy offer educational options
Harding University has been in Searcy since 1934, and the private Christian university brings over 3,000 undergraduate students to the city every year. The university operates Harding Academy, a private kindergarten through 12th grade school with an A on Niche. It is also one of Niche’s top 10 private high schools in the state. The A-minus-rated Searcy School District and C-plus-rated Riverview School District provide public school options. Arkansas State University Beebe, a technology-focused trade school, also has a Searcy campus.
Harding University is home to the Harding Bisons.
Riverview High School in Searcy maintains a student-teacher ratio of 8:1.
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In-demand homes near Harding and Searcy Country Club
Searcy’s median home price is $204,000, lower than the Little Rock and Arkansas medians. Buyers can find 19th-century Colonial Revival homes and brand-new custom builds in the same neighborhood. Residences near Harding University are in demand for faculty and staff. Those close to the Searcy Country Club also sell quickly. On average, homes in Searcy leave the market after 34 days, faster than the national average.
Some subdivisions in Searcy are filled with newly constructed, custom-built homes.
There is high demand for homes close to the Searcy Country Club.
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Searcy’s Main Street, as seen on Hulu
Main Street and Race Avenue have a mix of locally owned bars, grills and coffee shops, which all serve as community gathering spots. "I cannot walk in somewhere without seeing someone I know, and everyone treats you like family," Teed says. Six local businesses, including El Mercado Grocery Store, NoomaLife yoga studio and Whilma's Filipino Restaurant, got a spotlight on the Hulu reality series "Small Business Revolution" in 2019. Anyone shopping in Searcy may notice the city has a nearly 10% sales tax, higher than the state average.
In 2019, El Mercado Grocery Store was one of a few local Searcy businesses to be featured on Hulu's reality series "Small Business Revolution.".
In 2019, Whilma's Filipino Restaurant in Searcy was featured on the Hulu reality series "Small Business Revolution.".
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Trout fishing on the Little Red River
Golfers, fishers and hunters can all find something to do in Searcy. The city has two 18-hole golf courses; River Oaks Golf Course is public and offers discounted student rates, while the century-old Searcy Country Club is members-only. A portion of the Little Red River, a top trout-fishing location, runs through town. The Bald Knob Refuge is open for waterfowl hunting every winter when it fills with thousands of migrating ducks and geese.
There are two golf courses in Searcy that everyone may enjoy, including River Oaks Golf Course.
The Little Red River, a popular fishing destination, flows east through Searcy.
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Arkansas’s longest-standing church and courthouse
Centuries of history are on display across White County. The Smyrna Methodist Church is the longest-standing church in Arkansas, and the White County Courthouse is the oldest operational courthouse in the state. The Benjamin Clayton Black House was one of the first buildings in Arkansas to be included on the National Register of Historic Places. The Victorian-style mansion now serves as a gallery with exhibits by local artists.
Smyrna Methodist Church in Searcy, built in 1857, is the longest-standing church in Arkansas.
White County Courthouse in Searcy is the oldest operational courthouse in the state.
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Interstate 57 leads straight to Little Rock
Interstate 57 runs on the city's south side and connects directly to Little Rock, 51 miles away. State Highways 13, 36 and 267 also go through Searcy. The city does not have a public transportation system, so these highways are the main ways to travel. The Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock is the closest commercial airport.
Tornadoes are possible in central Arkansas
Searcy has hot, humid summers and mild winters. Hail, tornadoes, high winds and lightning storms are common in central Arkansas. An EF-0 tornado touched down in White County as recently as 2024. The Searcy Police Department submitted data to the FBI showing an overall decline in crime between 2022 and 2023, including a 13% decrease in theft and a 6% decrease in assault.
Written By
Delaney Murray
Photography Contributed By
Mary Drost
Video By
Dan Mack
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Corina Jordan,
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.
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On average, homes in Searcy, AR sell after 19 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Searcy, AR over the last 12 months is $255,000.
There’s something truly special about a rock home with a big yard... it instantly feels like home sweet home! This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home on the west side of town offers that perfect blend of warm country charm and a highly desirable, convenient location. The striking rock exterior sets the tone the moment you arrive, and that character continues inside with a stunning rock wood-burning
Sierra BurressMichele Phillips & Co. Realtors Searcy Branch
A blank canvas with room to dream. This 1.4-acre residential lot offers utilities at the road through First Electric, Summit Utilities, and SOWCO water. Mature trees provide natural beauty, and the surrounding established homes create an inviting setting. Priced below its previous appraised value, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.
Newly developed upscale subdivision with beautiful 3 acre lots. Natural gas, water and electric has all been run and ready to hook onto in front of the lot. Lot located on the higher side of the S/D with paved roads and curbs and a beautiful gated entrance. This three acre lot has a beautiful setting and it is very peaceful according to the seller!
This land features three heavily wooded lots totaling 3.61 acres on the hill above the lake. There is a spot where you can see the lake between the houses. The neighborhood is governed by a bill of assurance and protective covenants. New constructions are restricted to a minimum of 1,700 square feet, ensuring cohesive, high-quality development throughout. Features fully paved roads and county
Newly developed upscale subdivision with beautiful 3 acre lots. Natural gas, water and electric has all been run and ready to hook onto in front of the lot. Lot located on the higher side of the S/D with paved roads and curbs and a beautiful gated entrance. This three acre lot has a beautiful setting with a really nice shade tree.
Welcome to one of Searcy’s most sought-after addresses—just steps from Searcy Country Club and surrounded by beautiful golf course homes. Perfectly positioned on a spacious 0.66-acre lot, this 4,158 sq ft residence offers timeless design, exceptional space, and the ideal setting for both everyday living and entertaining. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by a stunning two-story foyer that
Spacious 3 Bedroom/2 Bath Home in Established Neighborhood! This well-maintained home offers plenty of room to spread out, featuring generously sized rooms. Step in from the inviting front porch & into the spacious living room, highlighted by a cozy gas fireplace that serves as the heart of the home. Just off the living area, you'll find a dining space large enough to accommodate a full-size
Charming 2-Bedroom Cottage Near Harding Perfect investment for parents or anyone looking for a home or rental. Discover this delightful 2-bedroom, 1-bath cottage perfectly situated just two blocks from Harding University. Whether you are looking for a prime long-term rental or a high-demand Airbnb property, this home offers the perfect blend of character and modern reliability and a HUGE back
ATTENTION!!!!!! This is your opportunity to own a piece of HISTORY!! Built in 1898!! This home is full of charm and character. They don't build them like this anymore. This 4-bedroom 2-bathroom historic home has so much to offer someone that has the time to give it the love it deserves. Take a look at the 3 bay windows looking out on the corner lot. This home is in the heart of Searcy at the edge
Hidden Gem with Space, Privacy & Plenty of Possibilities!Looking for space, privacy, and a home that’s truly move-in ready? This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on over half an acre in a desirable neighborhood and offers plenty of room both inside and out! Inside, you’ll find all hard-surface flooring, a spacious layout, and numerous updates that have already been completed. A designated office space
Welcome to this stunning corner-lot home that blends timeless architectural detail with everyday functionality. Framed by a whimsical front sidewalk and mature, grand entry hedges, the home delivers remarkable curb appeal from the moment you arrive. Inside, a welcoming front door crowned with a classic transom opens into bright, airy living spaces featuring dynamic vaulted and soaring high
Don't miss this one of a kind Fortress of Luxury & Sporting Excellence on 22 Gated Acres. This custom-engineered estate defines durability with ZERO DRYWALL construction—built entirely of solid wood and natural stone with concrete-poured subflooring for ultimate acoustic privacy. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s masterpiece, featuring beautiful granite counters, top of the line appliances and
A beautiful 20-acre property with a pond is waiting for you and your family's next home. Discover the perfect blend of beauty, privacy and opportunity on this stunning property near Searcy. Maintained and manicured like a golf course, the land features a scenic pond, gently rolling pastures, and expansive country views in every direction. Whether you're envisioning a family compound, an
Now Open – Move In Today at The Ellington!Welcome to The Ellington – where modern living meets effortless comfort. We’re excited to announce that our brand-new apartment community is now open and offering immediate move-ins!LIMITED-TIME CONSTRUCTION SPECIAL: Get 1 Month FREE!Call us today for details – this exclusive offer won’t last long!Be among the first to
Welcome to Meadow Lake Apartments in Searcy, Arkansas! Living in this beautifully developed apartment community provides everything you want right at home, in your own neighborhood. We are located convenient to Highway 67 and White County South Hospital, and just minutes to area shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Whether your preference is upstairs with added views or downstairs for
Welcome to Country Meadows Apartments in Searcy, AR! Our community offers a variety of amenities to enhance your living experience. Take a dip in our refreshing swimming pool, enjoy the convenience of covered parking, and let your furry friends run free in our on-site dog park. Our playground and grilling areas are perfect for outdoor fun with friends and family. With 24-hour laundry access,
Welcome to Parkside! We are excited to be a part of Searcy! We are located close to Harding University and welcome Harding students. We are located across the street from the Searcy Swim Center and the soccer and baseball fields. Come check out our beautiful property and all of our amenities. We look forward to meeting you and showing you around.
Property Id: 2410356 $600 per month. 1 BR/ 1 Bath Mobile Home in a family friendly, small mobile home park in a great location. Behind the Wendy's in Searcy, AR. Home has been updated is ready for move-in. Rent to own contract with $350 lot rent included. After 10 years, you'll own the mobile home and simply owe lot rent. Call today for a showing. No Pets, No smoking. Tenants responsible
Property Id: 2865946 1,008 sq. ft. of space, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and low-maintenance condo living. Luxury vinyl flooring, refrigerator, range and dishwasher included; washer/dryer hookup; single-car garage; back deck. One of the best features of this property is the low-maintenance lifestyle. The HOA takes care of the lawn care, so you can enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained
3 Bed, 1 Bath home for rent in Searcy. The home has central heat and air, wood floors, luxury vinyl flooring, privacy fence and outdoor patio sitting/grilling area, two outside storage areas. Gas oven and range, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator included with the home. It has washer and dryer hookup. Utilities are not included in rent. The utilities are: water, electric, natural gas. The home
James DillardUnited Country Real Estate Natural State Home & Land
Welcome to this 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home with a bonus space located in the heart of Searcy, AR. The large yard provides a perfect space for outdoor activities and relaxation, while the numerous shade trees offers a cool retreat from the summer sun. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this house your new home!Visit for your application. Application is required to schedule your in
** MOVE IN SPECIAL: 1/2 OFF FIRST MONTHS RENT **Welcome to this charming new remodeled 3 bedroom 2 bath home located in Searcy, AR. This cozy house features a fenced-in oversized backyard, perfect for outdoor activities and privacy. The kitchen comes equipped with a refrigerator, making meal prep a breeze. Additionally, a washer and dryer are included for added convenience. With its super cute
Enjoy comfortable, low-maintenance living in this spacious 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo located on Oak Meadow Place in Searcy. Offering approximately 1,144 square feet, this home provides a practical floor plan with plenty of space for comfortable everyday living.The two-bedroom, two-bath layout provides added privacy and convenience, making the property a great option for roommates, a small
Enjoy the beautiful Little Red River while you sit on the bank, hearing the water gently flow. Minutes from Searcy or I 57. This will be a parking lot for one RV with water, and power hookups at this fee. There is two RV parking spot close if you have someone you would like to live by, for a additonal fees for each RV.
Welcome to 507 N Spring, a cozy and well-kept rental in the heart of Searcy! This home offers 2 bedrooms and 1 1/2 bathrooms, making it the perfect fit for students, small families, or anyone looking for affordable living in a convenient location.Inside, you’ll find a bright living space with a functional layout and plenty of natural light. The kitchen provides good cabinet space and room
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