Cost of Living in North little rock, AR
North little rock cost of living index: 59.56 (below the US average). Median home price: $136,000.
Updated 2026 • Based on 5 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 5 zip codes
Housing costs in North little rock, AR based on real market data from 5 local zip codes.
Considering a move to North little rock, AR? With a housing index of 42.34, it’s relatively affordable compared to many urban areas. The median home price of 136000.0 makes it an attractive option for potential homeowners. Rental trends show average rates of 861.25 for apartment living and for house rentals, providing various options for renters as well. Overall, if you're looking for cost-effective living options, this may be the right place for you, particularly if you value budget-friendly housing alongside lifestyle amenities.
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 North little rock, 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 $83.7 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in North little rock, AR
How far does your money go in North little rock? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in North little rock
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a North little rock, 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 North little rock, that's $49,166 ÷ 59.56 × 100 = $82,549. This means a household earning the median income in North little rock has the equivalent buying power of $82,549 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
North little rock is well below the national cost of living average at 59.56, making it one of the more affordable places to live in AR. The median income of $49,166 has an effective purchasing power of $82,549 — 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.
However, it's important to note that the poverty rate in North little rock is 17%, which is above the national average. While living costs are low, income levels may also be lower for some households. Understanding both the cost of living and local income distribution is important when evaluating whether North little rock, AR is the right fit for your budget and lifestyle.
💡 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 North little rock
Pros
- • Family-friendly parks
- • Friendly community atmosphere
- • Outdoor activities available
- • Access to nearby nature trails
- • Diverse recreational options
- • Affordable cost of living
- • Growing job market
- • Active nightlife scene
- • Local arts and festivals
- • Rich local history
Cons
- • Underfunded schools
- • Traffic congestion issues
- • Higher crime rates reported
- • Limited public transportation
- • Some social economic challenges
- • Inconsistent job opportunities
- • Winter weather can be harsh
- • Humidity in summer months
- • Racial tensions in areas
- • Limited cultural amenities
💡City Insights
North little rock 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 North little rock worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in North little rock, AR? ▼
The cost of living in North little rock, AR is 40% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 60 (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 North little rock, AR? ▼
In North little rock, AR, The median home price is $136,000. requiring approximately $72,000 annual income to afford. Average rent is $861/month (requiring ~$34,450/year income). The local median household income is $49,166, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore North little rock real estate data →
Is North little rock, AR a safe place to live? ▼
North little rock, AR is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed North little rock crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in North little rock, AR? ▼
To live comfortably in North little rock, AR and afford a median-priced home of $136,000, you would typically need a household income of $34,000 to $42,500 per year. The local median household income is $49,166. Renting requires approximately $34,450/year (at $861/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in North little rock, AR? ▼
The best neighborhoods in North little rock, 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 $136,000 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in North little rock, AR? ▼
Tax rates in North little rock, AR include state and local components. The cost of living index of 60 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed North little rock tax information →
How does North little rock, AR compare to nearby cities? ▼
North little rock, AR offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 60, median home prices of $136,000, 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 North little rock, AR? ▼
Weather in North little rock, AR varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed North little rock climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in North little rock, AR? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in North little rock, 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 5 zip codes in North little rock, AR.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 72114 | $114,000 | $994/mo | $850/mo | 85 | 61 |
| 72116 | $275,000 | $1,524/mo | $925/mo | 101 | 29 |
| 72117 | $120,000 | $1,039/mo | $795/mo | 79 | 32 |
| 72118 | $136,000 | $1,088/mo | $875/mo | 98 | 40 |
| 72119 | $239,900 | — | — | 1 | — |
Explore More About North little rock, AR
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin