Why Fayetteville?
Relocating to Fayetteville? Welcome Home.
Nestled in the scenic Ozark Mountains, Fayetteville is a vibrant university town and economic hub at the heart of one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. With a population nearing 100,000 and home to the University of Arkansas, the city blends natural beauty, business opportunity, and a culture of innovation.
Whether you’re moving for work, education, or quality of life—Fayetteville offers a dynamic place to live, grow, and connect.
Here’s What Sets Fayetteville Apart
Fayetteville combines the energy of a thriving college town with the momentum of a top-ranked city for livability, business, and growth. With deep roots in education, an unmatched quality of life, and a growing metro economy, it’s easy to see why so many choose to live, work, and invest here.
103,134
Residents call the City of Fayetteville home, with neighborhoods, parks, and downtown energy to match.
34,000+
Students enrolled at the University of Arkansas—fueling innovation, talent pipelines, and cultural vibrancy.
618,795
People make up the broader metro area of Northwest Arkansas (NWA), one of the fastest-growing in the country.
TIP TOP
Fayetteville is consistently ranked among the best places to live, work, and retire in the U.S.
The Economy of Fayetteville, Arkansas (MSA)
Data reflects a region that’s growing fast — and growing strong.
Together, these numbers tell the story of a community that’s not just growing — it’s leading. Fayetteville’s balance of economic strength, quality workforce, and entrepreneurial spirit continues to drive the momentum of Northwest Arkansas forward.
312,000
workers across the Fayetteville MSA
(Lightcast/EMSI, Q4 2025)
3.3%
unemployment rate across the MSA (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, January 2026)
$44.4
billion Gross Regional Product (GRP) (U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2025)
98th
largest economy in the nation
(Statista Research Department, 2023)
16th
highest Per Capita Personal Income nationally (2021–2023) (U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Mar 2024)
14%
employment growth since 2021 (+39,200 workers)
(Lightcast/EMSI, 2025)
Thinking about doing business in Fayetteville?
Explore data, partners, and concierge-level support designed to help your business grow in one of America’s top-ranked economies.
National Recognition & Local Excellence
Fayetteville continues to earn recognition as one of the best places to live, work, and do business—both nationally and within Arkansas. From sustainability and transparency awards to top rankings in livability, cycling, and innovation, these honors reflect a city that invests in quality of life and leads with forward-thinking vision.
Noteworthy Points of Interest
Fayetteville blends natural beauty, innovation, and culture—making it one of the most vibrant and livable cities in the region. From a world-class university to a thriving arts scene and award-winning parks, Fayetteville offers opportunities to learn, explore, and connect.
Founded in 1871, U of A is a nationally recognized research university and home to the Arkansas Razorbacks. It brings world-class academics, Division I athletics, and cultural impact to the region.
Fayetteville’s premier performing arts venue, located downtown, features Broadway shows, concerts, dance, and arts education for all ages.
City Parks
Fayetteville’s park system spans over 3,000 acres, offering 70 parks, playgrounds, lakes, and sports fields across the city. From Wilson Park’s historic charm to Kessler Mountain’s scenic trails, these spaces connect residents through recreation, nature, and community.
