Cost of Living in Hot Springs, AR

When you think about moving or setting up a new home, the cost of living is usually front and center. From rents to groceries, these numbers determine how far your paycheck really stretches.

Hot Springs, AR is known for its relaxing vibe, historic baths, and beautiful lakes. But how does it stack up on affordability? Here’s a practical breakdown for both locals and newcomers.

Understanding the Cost of Living Score

The cost of living score is a comparative index that sums up essential expenses like housing, food, transportation, and healthcare. The national baseline is 100:

• A score below 100 = cheaper than the U.S. average
• A score above 100 = more expensive

Hot Springs typically falls around 83–85, meaning you’ll likely spend less overall here than in many other U.S. cities.

Housing & Rent

Home Prices & Trends

• Median single-family home price: ~$210,000
• Condos: ~$130,000–$190,000

Home values have risen recently but remain accessible compared to most U.S. markets.

Rental Market

• Studio: ~$650/month
• 1-bedroom: $750–$800/month
• 2-bedroom: $900–$1,100/month (location & amenities matter)

What Salary Do You Need?

A common guideline: spend no more than 30% of your income on rent.

• For $900/month rent, you’d want around $2,700/month pre-tax
• (≈ $32,400/year)

Many dual-income households and professionals find this manageable.

Transportation & Commute Costs

Public Transit

• Hot Springs Intracity Transit: several bus routes
• Approx. $1.25 per ride
• Monthly pass: around $35

Car Ownership

• Gas: ~$3.10/gallon
• Car insurance: ~$900–$1,100/year
• Most apartments include free parking
• Downtown parking during peak tourist season: up to $5/day

Commute

• Average commute time: under 20 minutes
• Uber and Lyft operate locally for those who prefer rideshare.

Utilities & Monthly Bills

• Electricity, gas, water: ~$125–$150/month for a typical home
• (apartments are often a bit lower)
• Internet: ~$55–$75/month for high-speed service
• Cell phone: from ~$40/month for basic unlimited talk/text plans
• City utility taxes & fees: often $8–$15/month, plus possible one-time connection fees

Expect higher power bills in summer due to air conditioning.

Food & Groceries

Grocery Costs (Per Person)

Estimated monthly grocery spending: $270–$330

Typical prices:

• Milk: ~$3.30/gallon
• Bread: ~$2.50/loaf
• Eggs: ~$2.80/dozen

These are roughly in line with Arkansas averages.

Dining Out

• Fast-casual meal: ~$11/person
• Sit-down restaurant: ~$30/entrée at nicer spots
• Tourist or steakhouse experiences can be higher

Money-saving tip:

Shop at Aldi, Save-A-Lot, and farmer’s markets. Seasonal produce stands are a local favorite for cheap, fresh fruits and veggies.

Healthcare Expenses

Insurance

• Employer plans: often $100–$200/month for single coverage
• Marketplace plans: can be higher, especially for older adults

Medical Services

• Standard doctor visit: ~$120 (before insurance)
• Dental cleaning: ~$85
• Specialists and urgent care: higher, depending on coverage

Prescriptions

• Generics are often under a $15 copay with insurance
• Some pharmacies offer $4 prescription programs for common meds

Goods & Everyday Services

• Haircut:
• Men: $15–$22
• Women: $25–$50
• Dry cleaning: ~$3.50/shirt
• Cleaning service: ~$100 for a basic session
• Streaming services: $8–$18/month, depending on platform
• Gym memberships: $25–$60/month (budget gyms vs. boutique studios)

Local Consumer Price Index (CPI) trends show relatively stable prices, with the biggest increases seen in housing.

Fitness & Entertainment

• Gyms: from $22/month at basic clubs
• Yoga/specialty classes: ~$15/session
• Movie ticket: ~$12
• Live show at historic theaters: ~$25+

Outdoor concerts, park events, and festivals are common and often low-cost or free.

Outdoor Recreation

• Lakes, trails, and parks: often free or a small parking fee (around $5/vehicle)
• City parks: generally free access

How Hot Springs Compares

Versus Nearby Cities

• Little Rock: Hot Springs is about 10–15% cheaper, especially for housing.
• Dallas or Memphis: Hot Springs is significantly more affordable across housing, utilities, and everyday expenses.

Versus the National Average

• Roughly 20% cheaper overall than U.S. average
• Big savings in housing and utilities
• Groceries and transportation are closer to national norms

Salaries & Job Opportunities

Major Industries

• Healthcare
• Tourism & hospitality
• Education
• Small business / retail

Hot Springs National Park, resorts, hotels, and medical centers are major employers.

Income Overview

• Median household income: ~$41,000
• Per-capita income: ~$25,400
• Many jobs in the area pay $30,000–$60,000, with skilled and management roles above that range.

Job Market Trends

• Steady demand in:
• Healthcare
• Hospitality and tourism
• Skilled trades
• Education and public services

Can You Afford Hot Springs, AR?

Quick Self-Check

1. Estimate your monthly housing (rent or mortgage).
2. Add:

• Utilities
• Groceries
• Transportation
• Healthcare
• Insurance and debt payments

1. Compare to your take-home pay.

Many residents find they can live comfortably and still save, thanks to lower housing and utility costs.

What Does AI Say About Hot Springs, AR?

AI-based city comparisons generally agree on a few things:

• Hot Springs is budget-friendly, especially for retirees, remote workers, and small families.
• Cost increases are expected to be steady and moderate, not explosive—mainly in housing.

But remember: tools use historical and regional averages. Your actual experience will depend on your lifestyle, income, and household size.

FAQs: Cost of Living in Hot Springs, AR

Average Rent by Bedroom Size

SizeTypical Rent (Monthly)Studio~$6501-Bedroom~$750–$8002-Bedroom~$900–$1,100

Is Housing Affordable?

Yes. First-time homebuyer assistance programs (like those from the Arkansas Development Finance Authority) can make buying even easier.

Is Public Transit Cheaper Than a Car?

If you stay mostly in town and use the bus often, transit is cheaper than owning and maintaining a car. But most residents prefer the flexibility of driving.

How Do Utilities Fluctuate?

• Summer: Higher bills due to air conditioning
• Winter: More moderate, but still factor in heating
• Watch for one-time connection fees when you move.

Is Dining Out Expensive?

Not especially. Casual spots are very reasonable, and there’s plenty of affordable local food, with higher-end choices available for special nights out.

Final Thoughts

Hot Springs, AR offers a relaxing lifestyle with a cost of living that’s easier on your budget than many other cities—especially when it comes to housing, utilities, and everyday services.

If you’re planning a move or downsizing, secure, flexible storage can help bridge the gap between homes and keep things stress-free. Exploring self storage in Hot Springs, AR is a smart step as you get settled in this charming, affordable city.