Northwest Arkansas (NWA) is growing fast for good reasons. Houses in Arkansas are elegant, modern homes. They are genuinely friendly and sincere people. Breathtaking natural attractions. Affordable cost of living. Thriving job market. Breathtaking university campus. Countless outdoor amenities. Plenty of options for recreational pastimes. To know more about it follow this link.
If you didn’t know already, here’s a little piece of trivia: Northwest Arkansas is where the wealthy businessman and former J. C. Penney employee, Sam Walton, opened the first Walmart Discount City store.
Much of the rise in cultural diversity and economic growth in the city is driven by the three giant multinational corporations headquartered in NWA: Tyson Foods, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, and of course, Walmart.
With a total population of 561,000 residents, the area still has all the charm of small-town life. While you might be enticed to move to one of the world’s rapidly growing cities, here are a few things you should consider before taking the plunge.
4 Things You Should Know Before Moving to Northwest Arkansas
It’s no secret that once a small rural landscape, Northwest Arkansas has transformed into a contemporary urban metropolis. However, you might find living here quite different compared to living in the city.
1. The job market is not diverse.
Although the area’s economy is healthy, and there is no shortage of job openings, there’s certainly a limitation of job roles available. As we mentioned, the most prominent companies here deal in consumer-packaged goods, transportation, and retail.
If you or your spouse have a different work experience, landing a job in Northwest Arkansas could be a struggle.
2. The city is home to ticks and tick-borne diseases
While you might not find flies, moths, and beetles bothersome, the fact that Northwest Arkansas is a high tick-endemic area is deeply unsettling.
If you thrive indoors, you can surely enjoy your me-time at home while watching a movie and snacking.
But for outdoor enthusiasts, going out might seem like a big deal. The mountains here are not just for trekking! They are home to many endemic insect species.
This is because you will never be able to spend your weekends’ hiking, camping, and rock climbing, without first dousing your entire body with a bug repellent.
What’s worse is that these insects have developed an innate immunity. So, you can try putting on essential oils all you want, but you will still fail to protect yourself from a tick attack.
3. It’s expensive to fly out of Northwest Arkansas
Although the North Arkansas Regional Airport (XNA) is small, an average round-trip fare amounts upwards of several hundred dollars.
It’s certainly not a reasonable option for sudden, last-minute business trips because the cheapest fare may cost you over $1000.
When you’ve time on hand, you can always drive to the nearest airports, which are located in Tulsa and Little Rock, a two-hour and three-hour drive away from Northwest Arkansas.
4. Northwest Arkansas is not the best place for seeking real love
Most people living here have moved in with their families and significant others. They are either already married, in a relationship, or are students at the University of Arkansas.
Those who are employed and single might not be ready to mingle yet. Yes, any of your friends or tour guides can play cupid and help you find your soulmate.
But still, this is a crucial point to consider if you’re single and want to settle down soon.