Cost of Living in Little Rock, AR (2025)

Thinking About Moving to Little Rock, Arkansas?

If you’re considering relocating to Little Rock, Arkansas, one of the first things you’re probably wondering is:

“What’s the cost of living in Little Rock?”

The short answer: Little Rock remains one of the most affordable capital cities in the U.S., offering a balance of affordable housing, big-city amenities, and easy access to outdoor recreation.

This guide breaks down the 2025 cost of living in Little Rock, Arkansas, covering housing, utilities, transportation, groceries, healthcare, and lifestyle.

🏡 Housing Costs in Little Rock

Housing is one of Little Rock’s biggest advantages compared to larger metro areas.

• Median Home Price (2025): ~$253,000 in Pulaski County.

• Monthly Mortgage (on median home): $1,450–$1,700 depending on loan terms + taxes.

• Rent:

  • 2–3 bedroom rental home: $1,100–$1,400

  • Apartments: $900–$1,200

👉 Little Rock housing is 20–30% lower than the national average.

Neighborhood Snapshot:

• West Little Rock / Chenal Valley: Newer homes, golf course communities, higher-end prices.

• Hillcrest & The Heights: Historic charm, walkable streets, mid-range to higher-end pricing.

• Downtown Little Rock: Urban lofts, condos, walkability to dining/entertainment.

• Southwest Little Rock: Affordable starter homes with larger yards.

💡 Utility Costs in Little Rock

Average monthly utilities for a 2,000 sq. ft. home:

• Electricity: $140–$190 (higher in peak summer months).

• Water/Sewer/Trash: $70–$100.

• Internet: $55–$80.

Arkansas utility rates are below the national average, making Little Rock affordable for families and first-time buyers.

🚗 Transportation Costs in Little Rock

Getting around Little Rock is simple and cost-effective:

• Gas Prices (2025): ~$3.00/gallon (often lower than U.S. average).

• Commutes:

  • Downtown to West Little Rock: ~15–20 minutes

  • Little Rock to North Little Rock: ~10 minutes

  • Little Rock to Benton/Bryant: 20–25 minutes

Parking is free in most areas outside of downtown, keeping transportation costs lower than in larger U.S. cities.

🛒 Food & Groceries

Grocery and dining costs in Little Rock are slightly below national averages:

• Family of four: $700–$950/month for groceries.

• Eating out:

  • Casual dining: $12–$20 per person

  • Mid-range restaurants: $45–$65 for two

  • Coffee: $3–$6

Local options like the Little Rock River Market also provide fresh produce and farmers’ goods at affordable prices.

🏥 Healthcare in Little Rock

Little Rock is home to some of the state’s top healthcare facilities, including:

• University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

• CHI St. Vincent

• Baptist Health Medical Center

Healthcare costs are slightly below U.S. averages, with family insurance plans averaging $450–$600/month.

📚 Education in Little Rock

• Public Schools: Free, with top-rated districts in West Little Rock and nearby suburbs like Bryant and Benton.

• Private Schools: $5,000–$12,000/year depending on the school.

• Higher Education: UAMS, University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR), and nearby colleges like Hendrix (Conway).

🎉 Entertainment & Lifestyle in Little Rock

Living in Little Rock means access to urban entertainment + outdoor recreation:

• Movie tickets: $11–$13

• Gym memberships: $35–$60/month

• Arkansas Travelers baseball tickets: $12–$25

• Concerts at Simmons Bank Arena: $50–$150 (depending on artist)

• Outdoor fun: Free hiking at Pinnacle Mountain State Park and biking at Two Rivers Park

📊 Overall Cost of Living Index for Little Rock (2025)

• Little Rock, Arkansas: ~87 (U.S. average = 100)

👉 That means living in Little Rock is about 13% cheaper than the U.S. average, while still offering a capital city’s amenities.

✅ The Bottom Line

Little Rock, Arkansas, remains a great choice for families, young professionals, and retirees looking for affordability without sacrificing culture, healthcare, and lifestyle.

Whether you’re drawn to the historic charm of Hillcrest, the luxury of Chenal Valley, or the affordability of Southwest Little Rock, the city offers housing and lifestyle options for every budget.

👩‍💼 Thinking About Relocating to Little Rock, Arkansas?

As a Central Arkansas Realtor®, I help families relocating to Little Rock and surrounding communities find homes that fit their lifestyle and budget.

Related Blogs:

Cost of Living in Central Arkansas

Bryant schools

Benton homes for sale

Moving to Conway, Arkansas