Peter MokoenaRetirement is a new chapter, and choosing the right setting is paramount. Arkansas, aptly named “The Natural State,” offers a compelling blend of stunning landscapes, a low cost of living, a mild climate, and genuine Southern hospitality. For retirees seeking an active lifestyle immersed in nature or a supportive community with excellent care, Arkansas presents a wealth of options.
This comprehensive guide explores 40 standout retirement communities across Arkansas, categorized by type and region to help you navigate your choices. From the cultural hubs of Central Arkansas to the scenic tranquility of the Ozarks and the Ouachitas, your ideal retirement destination awaits.
40 Retirement Communities in Arkansas: Finding Your Perfect Retirement in the Natural State
Central Arkansas (Little Rock Metro Area & Surrounds)
This region offers the perfect mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with top-tier healthcare facilities.
1. Chenal Pines (Little Rock): An established, upscale 55+ active adult community within the master-planned Chenal Valley. Residents enjoy golf course living, a private clubhouse, and proximity to the city’s best shopping and dining.
2. The Manor (Little Rock): A well-known Life Plan Community (CCRC) offering a continuum of care from independent living to skilled nursing in a park-like setting with a strong reputation.
3. Willow Grove of Sherwood (Sherwood): Provides assisted living and memory care with a focus on personalized care plans and engaging activities in a suburban setting.
4. Brookdale Chenal Heights (Little Rock): Offers assisted living and memory care in a comfortable environment with a dedicated staff, known for its Brookdale Signature Programs for enrichment.
5. The Greenbriar on Stagecoach (Little Rock): A smaller, intimate assisted living community known for its family-like atmosphere and personalized attention.
6. Fox Ridge of North Little Rock (North Little Rock): Part of a respected brand, offering assisted living and memory care with a focus on an active, engaging lifestyle.
7. Pleasant Valley Living Center (Little Rock): Provides skilled nursing and rehabilitation services, often serving as a short-term rehab destination for recovery.
8. The Lakes at Maumelle (Maumelle): An active adult neighborhood within the larger community of Maumelle, offering lake access and a peaceful environment just minutes from the city.
9. Cottages of Greenbriar (Little Rock): A newer option offering memory care in a purpose-built, secure environment designed to reduce anxiety and promote well-being.
10. Parkstone Place (Little Rock): Offers independent and assisted living with a variety of floor plans and a full activities calendar.
Retirement Homes In Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale)
One of the fastest-growing regions in the U.S., NWA boasts a thriving economy, world-class arts, and the pristine beauty of the Ozark Mountains.
11. The Gardens at Osage Terrace (Bentonville): Offers independent and assisted living with the distinct advantage of being located next to a senior health center, providing integrated care.
12. The Bungalows at Fayetteville (Fayetteville): A newer community offering assisted living and memory care with a modern, homelike design and a focus on innovative programming.
13. Village on the Park (Rogers): A premier senior living community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care with resort-style amenities.
14. The Maples at Har-Ber Meadows (Springdale): An active adult (55+) neighborhood nestled within the acclaimed Har-Ber Meadows golf community.
15. Butterfield Trail Village (Fayetteville): A highly-rated, non-profit Life Plan Community (CCRC) adjacent to a nature preserve, offering a full continuum of care and a vibrant intellectual atmosphere.
16. The Blossoms (Bentonville): A cozy, well-regarded community providing assisted living and memory care with a high staff-to-resident ratio.
17. The Wellington at Rogers (Rogers): Offers assisted living and memory care with a philosophy centered on personalized care and fostering independence.
18. Highlands of Bella Vista (Bella Vista): A 55+ active adult community with a focus on outdoor recreation, including access to lakes, golf courses, and miles of walking trails.
19. Apple Blossom Aging in Place (Rogers): Specializes in assisted living with a philosophy designed to help residents maintain their independence for as long as possible.
20. Circle of Life Hospice (Bentonville): While not a residence, this renowned hospice organization provides crucial end-of-life care services throughout the region.
Retirement Homes In The River Valley & Western Arkansas (Fort Smith, Van Buren)
Rich in history and nestled along the Arkansas River, this area offers affordability and a relaxed pace of life.
21. Peachtree Village of Fort Smith (Fort Smith): A large community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care with a full activities schedule.
22. The Woods at Mansfield (Fort Smith): An active adult neighborhood offering new, low-maintenance homes for those 55 and older.
23. Brookfield Assisted Living (Fort Smith): Provides assisted living in a comfortable setting with a focus on dignity and personalized service.
24. Fianna Hills Retirement Community (Fort Smith): An established neighborhood with a mix of traditional homes and patio homes popular with active retirees.
25. Heartsworth Nursing and Rehabilitation (Van Buren): Provides skilled nursing and intensive rehabilitation services for both short-term and long-term stays.
26. The Cottages at Chapel Ridge (Fort Smith): A newer memory care community offering specialized, secure care in a modern cottage-style setting.
Retirement Homes In The Ouachitas & Southwest Arkansas (Hot Springs, Arkadelphia)
Famous for its natural hot springs and beautiful lakes, this region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
27. The Garrett Woods (Hot Springs): A premier Life Plan Community (CCRC) set on a wooded campus, offering a full continuum of care from independent living to skilled nursing.
28. The Waters of Hot Springs (Hot Springs): An active adult (55+) apartment community offering a maintenance-free lifestyle with social activities and a great location.
29. Quapaw Creek Assisted Living (Hot Springs): Provides assisted living and memory care with a reputation for compassionate care and a family atmosphere.
30. The Blake at Hot Springs (Hot Springs): A newer, upscale community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care with resort-style amenities and modern design.
31. Deer Creek (Hot Springs): An active adult manufactured home community offering an affordable, amenity-rich lifestyle for those 55+.
32. The Crossing at Malvern (Malvern): Offers assisted living and memory care for the communities southeast of Little Rock.
Northeast Arkansas (Jonesboro, Paragould)
A major agricultural and economic hub for the region, offering a flat, fertile landscape and a strong sense of community.
33. The Gardens at Osage (Jonesboro): The sister community to the Bentonville location, offering the same model of independent and assisted living integrated with a senior health center.
34. St. Bernard’s Village (Jonesboro): Connected to the regional medical center, this community offers independent living cottages and apartments with convenient access to healthcare.
35. Ridgecrest Health & Rehabilitation (Jonesboro): Provides skilled nursing and rehab services with a focus on helping residents regain independence.
36. Paragould Place (Paragould): Offers assisted living in a smaller city setting, providing personalized care for the local community.
Southeast Arkansas (Pine Bluff, Monticello)
A region defined by its river history and dense forests, offering a quiet, traditional Southern lifestyle.
37. Trinity Village (Pine Bluff): A long-standing, non-profit Life Plan Community (CCRC) offering a full range of living options and care on a spacious campus.
38. The Lakes of Pine Bluff (Pine Bluff) An active adult (55+) community centered around a lake, offering fishing, a clubhouse, and a peaceful environment.
39. Creekstone (Monticello) Provides assisted living and memory care for the communities in southeastern Arkansas.
40. Davis Life Care (Pine Bluff) Offers independent living and assisted living with a focus on creating a comfortable and engaging home for seniors.
Key Considerations for Your Arkansas Retirement:
Type of Community: Actively decide between an **Active Adult (55+)** community (home ownership, no care) and a **Senior Living** community (rental, services and care included).
Climate & Geography: Arkansas has distinct regions. The northwest has more hills and seasons, while the south is flatter and more humid. Choose a setting that matches your recreational desires.
Healthcare Access: While major cities have excellent hospitals, consider proximity to specialists and medical facilities, especially if you have ongoing health needs.
Visit In Person: A list can only tell you so much. Plan a trip to tour your top choices, sample the food, and talk to residents. The “feel” of a community is everything.
Financial Fit: Arkansas is affordable, but costs vary. Understand all fees: buy-in costs for CCRCs, monthly HOA fees in active adult communities, and tiered pricing for care levels in assisted living.
Arkansas offers a retirement experience that is both enriching and relaxing. With its natural beauty, friendly communities, and diverse range of living options, it’s a state where you can truly enjoy your well-deserved retirement.