Cost of Living in Little Rock Arkansas in 2025

Little Rock Arkansas Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

• Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Little Rock has increased to about $1,222 in 2025.
• Transportation Expenses: Public transit fares are affordable, with a monthly pass around $36, and fuel costs average $2.89 per gallon.
• Healthcare Costs: Monthly employer-sponsored health insurance averages approximately $140.33, with standard private plans around $621.
• Income Levels: The median household income in Little Rock is estimated at $60,583 in 2025.

Little Rock, Arkansas offers a mix of affordable living and vibrant cultural amenities.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of the cost of living in Little Rock, covering housing, utilities, transportation and more for 2025.

For hospitality employers looking to attract local talent, understanding regional costs is crucial. Learn more about effective restaurant staff hiring to optimize your hiring strategy in such markets.

1. Housing Costs in Little Rock Arkansas

Housing plays a vital role in monthly expenses. Here's a look at the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Little Rock over recent years:

• 2010: Roughly $700
• 2015: About $800
• 2020: Nearly $900
• 2024: Approximately $1,067
• 2025: Projected at $1,222

The rising rent reflects the growing housing demand in Little Rock while remaining below national averages.

Employers, especially in hospitality, can find insights on real estate market trends to anticipate workforce needs and plan location-based hiring strategies.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in Little Rock Arkansas

The property market shows steady appreciation over the years. Median home prices have evolved as follows:

• 2010: Around $150,000
• 2015: Increased to $175,000
• 2020: About $200,000
• 2024 & 2025: Stable at approximately $215,638

These trends indicate steady but manageable growth, appealing for potential homeowners.

3. Transportation Expenses in Little Rock Arkansas

Transportation in Little Rock is cost-effective, including public transit and personal vehicle expenses:

• Public Transit One-Way Fare: $1.35
• Monthly Pass: $36.00
• Fuel Price per Gallon: $2.89
• Annual Vehicle Maintenance: Estimated $800

These costs may change depending on usage but are generally below national averages.

In hospitality management, understanding local transportation costs can aid in crafting employee commute benefits. Explore how to hire a restaurant manager with knowledge of nearby transit options for optimal staffing.

4. Utility Costs in Little Rock Arkansas

Typical monthly utilities for a standard-sized apartment include:

• Electricity: $168.98
• Internet: $65.76
• Total Utilities: Around $261.36

Utility rates here are roughly 16% lower than the national average, benefiting residents financially.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in Little Rock Arkansas

Groceries and dining out are affordable with:

Monthly groceries averaging $300 per person. Casual dining meals cost about $15 while mid-range restaurant meals are approximately $50.

Restaurants in Little Rock might benefit from learning about boosting employee morale to improve service quality and reduce turnover.

6. Healthcare Costs in Little Rock Arkansas

Healthcare involves insurance and out-of-pocket expenses:

Monthly employer-sponsored insurance premiums average $140.33, while private Silver health plans are about $621 per month.

7. Educational Expenses in Little Rock Arkansas

Education costs vary by level and type:

• Public Schools: Free, funded by taxes
• Private School Tuition: Average $10,000 annually
• In-State University Tuition: Roughly $8,000 per year

Costs depend on choice of institution and programs.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in Little Rock Arkansas

Leisure activities have reasonable costs:

• Movie Ticket: Approximately $14.31
• Gym Membership: $40 monthly
• Mid-Range Restaurant Meal: $50

Annual entertainment expenses average around $2,000, supporting varied lifestyles.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in Little Rock Arkansas

Tax rates and fees affecting residents include:

• State Income Tax: Ranges between 0% - 5.9%
• Sales Tax: Total of 6.5%
• Property Tax Rate: About 0.63%

These rates impact overall cost of living considerations.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in Little Rock Arkansas

Family-related expenses include:

• Daycare: Around $800 monthly
• After-School Care: $300 monthly
• Extracurricular Activities: Approximately $100 monthly

Budgeting for childcare is crucial for families.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in Little Rock Arkansas

Residents spend:

• Clothing: About $100 per month
• Personal Care: Roughly $50 per month

These expenses contribute moderately to living costs.

Employers aiming to attract talent might consider offering perks aligned with personal care or clothing allowances as part of a competitive benefits package. See insights on restaurant job perks.

12. Insurance Costs in Little Rock Arkansas

Insurance premiums include:

• Health Insurance: Approximately $621 per month for a Silver plan
• Auto Insurance: $1,200 annually
• Homeowners Insurance: Around $1,500 annually
• Renters Insurance: $200 annually

These policies are essential for protection and compliance.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in Little Rock Arkansas

Additional living costs include:

• Entertainment: $2,000 annually
• Personal Care Services: $600 annually
• Other Goods and Services: $700 annually

These vary based on lifestyle choices and preferences.

14. Income and Salaries in Little Rock Arkansas

Median household incomes have grown steadily:

• 2010: $46,000
• 2015: $50,000
• 2020: $56,000
• 2023 & 2025: Approximately $60,583

This progression reflects modest economic growth in the area.

Hospitality employers in Little Rock can find tailored advice on hiring reliable kitchen staff to match growing service demands alongside economic trends.

15. Comparison with National Averages in Little Rock Arkansas

Little Rock remains relatively affordable compared to U.S. averages:

• Overall Cost of Living: About 6% below national average
• Housing: Roughly 22% less expensive
• Utilities: Around 16% lower
• Food Expenses: Approximately 3% cheaper
• Healthcare: Nearly 15% lower
• Transportation: Around 6% less expensive
• Goods and Services: Slightly 8% higher

These comparisons highlight areas of savings and where costs are slightly above average.

Understanding these cost differences can help in recruitment and salary planning. Check the bartender salary guide for local pay rates as a reference for competitive wages.

Our Methodology for Little Rock Arkansas Cost of Living Figures

We gather data from trusted sources including government reports, market research, and community surveys. Our calculations blend direct figures with estimates to provide a complete picture of living costs in Little Rock for 2025.

Little Rock Arkansas Cost of Living: Conclusion

Little Rock presents an affordable cost of living landscape with reasonable housing costs, manageable transportation and utility expenses, and competitive healthcare premiums.

With incomes closely keeping pace, residents can enjoy a balanced lifestyle supported by diverse amenities and cultural offerings.

Understanding these factors is key for both current residents and newcomers planning their financial futures in this vibrant Arkansas city.

Employers interested in effective team building should also explore strategies to reduce employee turnover to maintain a stable workforce in regions like Little Rock.