Cost of Living in Bella vista, AR
Bella vista cost of living index: 54.95 (below the US average). Median home price: $318,675.
Updated 2026 • Based on 2 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 2 zip codes
Housing costs in Bella vista, AR based on real market data from 2 local zip codes.
Considering a move to Bella vista, AR? The current median home price is 318675.0, which indicates a potentially affordable home ownership option compared to many urban areas. However, the housing index at 62.65 suggests a lack of rental data or a very unstable market, possibly pointing to limited availability for rentals in general. Since housing demand can significantly affect neighborhood dynamics, it might be worth investigating local amenities and job opportunities before finalizing your decision. Look beyond just the numbers to ensure Bella vista meets your needs for a balanced lifestyle.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Bella vista, AR could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $12.36, while natural gas is priced at $17.08 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $73.8 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Bella vista, AR
How far does your money go in Bella vista? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Bella vista
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Bella vista, AR household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Bella vista, that's $83,989 ÷ 54.95 × 100 = $152,846. This means a household earning the median income in Bella vista has the equivalent buying power of $152,846 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
Bella vista is well below the national cost of living average at 54.95, making it one of the more affordable places to live in AR. The median income of $83,989 has an effective purchasing power of $152,846 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
Combined with a low poverty rate of 7% and healthy job market (3.5% unemployment), Bella vista offers strong value for families, investors, and anyone looking to relocate to a city where income goes further.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Bella vista
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Easy access to nature trails
- • Active community events
- • Strong local job market
- • Family-friendly parks available
- • Diverse local culture
- • Growing local businesses
- • Low cost of living
- • Good schools in the area
- • Great outdoor activities
Cons
- • Some schools underperforming
- • Job market competitive for youth
- • Higher crime rates reported
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Occasional racial tensions noted
- • Limited public transportation
- • Traffic congestion during peak
- • Extreme weather events
- • Low economic growth pace
- • Lack of diverse restaurants
💡City Insights
Bella vista scores 10/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers. This balanced profile makes Bella vista worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bella vista, AR? ▼
The cost of living in Bella vista, AR is 45% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 55 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Bella vista, AR? ▼
In Bella vista, AR, The median home price is $318,675. requiring approximately $111,145 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,745/month (requiring ~$69,800/year income). The local median household income is $83,989, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore Bella vista real estate data →
Is Bella vista, AR a safe place to live? ▼
Bella vista, AR is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Bella vista crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Bella vista, AR? ▼
To live comfortably in Bella vista, AR and afford a median-priced home of $318,675, you would typically need a household income of $79,669 to $99,586 per year. The local median household income is $83,989. Renting requires approximately $69,800/year (at $1,745/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Bella vista, AR? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Bella vista, AR depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $318,675 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in Bella vista, AR? ▼
Tax rates in Bella vista, AR include state and local components. The cost of living index of 55 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Bella vista tax information →
How does Bella vista, AR compare to nearby cities? ▼
Bella vista, AR offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 55, median home prices of $318,675, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Bella vista, AR? ▼
Weather in Bella vista, AR varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Bella vista climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Bella vista, AR? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Bella vista, AR include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 2 zip codes in Bella vista, AR.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 72714 | $299,900 | $2,185/mo | $1,695/mo | 315 | 30 |
| 72715 | $337,450 | $2,139/mo | $1,795/mo | 537 | 52 |
Explore More About Bella vista, AR
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin