Cost of Living in Conway, AR (2025)

Thinking About Moving to Conway, Arkansas?

Known as the City of Colleges, Conway combines small-town charm with big opportunities in education, healthcare, and tech.

Many families and students ask me:

“What’s the cost of living in Conway, Arkansas?”

The good news: Conway remains one of the most affordable and family-friendly cities in Central Arkansas, while offering a vibrant downtown, strong schools, and access to outdoor recreation.

Here’s a 2025 breakdown of the cost of living in Conway, Arkansas.

🏡 Housing Costs in Conway

Conway’s housing market is strong but affordable compared to national averages.

• Median Home Price (2025): $255,000–$270,000 (Faulkner County).

• Monthly Mortgage (on median home): $1,450–$1,700.

• Rent:

  • 2–3 bedroom home: $1,000–$1,300

  • Apartments: $850–$1,100

👉 Conway housing is about 20–25% lower than the national average.

Neighborhood Snapshot:

• West Conway: Newer subdivisions, larger homes, and quick access to schools.

• Downtown Conway: Walkable living near shops, dining, and UCA.

• East Conway: Affordable starter homes and acreage options.

💡 Utility Costs in Conway

Utility rates in Conway are competitive, especially with Conway Corp managing many services.

• Electricity: $130–$180/month

• Water/Sewer/Trash: $60–$90/month

• Internet: $50–$70/month

Conway utilities are slightly lower than the Arkansas state average, making it family-friendly.

🚗 Transportation Costs

Conway is well-connected to the rest of Central Arkansas:

• Gas Prices (2025): ~$3.00/gallon

• Commutes:

  • Conway ⇆ Little Rock: ~30 minutes

  • Conway ⇆ Maumelle: ~20 minutes

  • Conway ⇆ Greenbrier: ~15 minutes

Parking is free almost everywhere, and traffic is lighter than in larger metro areas.

🛒 Food & Groceries

Conway offers plenty of grocery options and affordable dining:

• Family of four groceries: $700–$900/month

• Dining Out:

  • Casual dining: $12–$18 per person

  • Mid-range restaurants: $40–$55 for two

  • Coffee: $3–$5

Local favorites include the Conway Farmers Market for fresh produce and community events.

🏥 Healthcare in Conway

Healthcare is strong and accessible, anchored by Conway Regional Health System and just a short drive to Little Rock’s major hospitals.

• Family insurance plan: $400–$600/month.

• Local healthcare: Slightly below national averages, with quick access to specialists in Little Rock.

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📚 Education in Conway

Conway is known for its education system, which is why many families choose to relocate here.

• Public Schools: Highly rated, with Conway Public Schools serving most of the city.

• Private Schools: Tuition averages $5,000–$9,000/year.

• Higher Education:

  • University of Central Arkansas (UCA)

  • Hendrix College

  • Central Baptist College

These institutions give Conway a young, vibrant energy and make it a hub for students and faculty alike.

🎉 Entertainment & Lifestyle in Conway

Conway offers both family-friendly entertainment and outdoor activities:

• Movie ticket: $10–$12

• Fitness membership: $30–$50/month

• Local sports: Conway Wampus Cats + UCA Bears games

• Outdoor fun: Lake Conway, Cadron Settlement Park, and nearby hiking trails

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📊 Overall Cost of Living Index for Conway (2025)

• Conway, Arkansas: ~88 (U.S. average = 100)

👉 Conway is about 12% cheaper than the U.S. average, while still offering strong schools, healthcare, and job opportunities.

✅ The Bottom Line

Conway, Arkansas, is one of the best values in Central Arkansas. Affordable housing, strong schools, a thriving local economy, and outdoor recreation make it a top choice for families, professionals, and students.

Whether you’re considering a starter home in East Conway, new construction in West Conway, or a downtown condo near UCA, you’ll find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget

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👩‍💼 Thinking About Relocating to Conway, Arkansas?

As a Central Arkansas Realtor®, I help families and individuals relocating to Conway and nearby areas like Greenbrier, Little Rock, and Maumelle find homes that fit their needs.

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