Cost of Living in Hot Springs, AR
Population 38,023 · Arkansas · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Hot Springs run well below national norms — a median of $46,441 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $157,000). A poverty rate near 21% adds context to the income figures — well above the US average, and worth factoring into any comparison with cities on the coasts or in the Rockies.
Hot Springs is about 45 miles west of Little Rock, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 29% lower than Little Rock's $221,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Hot Springs
The median home value in Hot Springs is $156,900 — 49% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $902/month, 31% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $46,441/year is 38% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 5.5%, above the national average of 4.8%. Arkansas's top state income tax rate is 4.4% and the combined sales tax is 9.5%. Overall, Hot Springs has a cost of living index of 58 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 42% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Hot Springs, AR?
Hot Springs has a cost index of 58 (100 = national average). It is 42% below the national average.
What is average rent in Hot Springs, AR?
The median gross rent in Hot Springs is $902 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Hot Springs?
The median home value in Hot Springs is $156,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Hot Springs?
The median household income in Hot Springs is $46,441 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Hot Springs, AR?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Hot Springs is 9.5%. The Arkansas state income tax top rate is 4.4%.
Is Hot Springs, AR affordable?
Yes, Hot Springs is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 58 — about 42% below the US national average of 100.
Hot Springs at a Glance
- Population
- 38,023
- Median Income
- $46,441
- Home Value
- $156,900
- Median Rent
- $902/mo
- Unemployment
- 5.5%
- Sales Tax
- 9.5%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Arkansas Rankings
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