Jonesboro

Whether enjoying the Arkansas countryside or taking part in a popular civic celebration, there’s always something fun to do in Jonesboro. The thriving community, which boasts a full spectrum of activities and world-class medical and educational options, is one of the fastest growing in the state. The high quality of life is surprisingly affordable with a cost of living that’s well below the national average.

The city’s well-rounded list of recreation offerings includes the Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center (a 170-acre protected wildlife refuge) and the Sage Meadows Golf & Country Club, which is a part of the Arkansas Golf Trail. Plus, more than 900 acres of city parks boast dozens of athletic fields, water features, community centers, recreation programs and events.

Community pride is on ready display in Jonesboro. The historic downtown is a bustling network of shopping, dining and entertainment and hosts some of the year’s most popular events, headlined by BBQ & Music Fest in September and Alive After 5 on the first Thursday of every month.

Five public school districts and four private schools, all with sterling academic standings, entice families to plant roots here. Others come for Arkansas State University, with more than 13,000 students, which promotes intellectual growth through a combination of world-class research and a long tradition of student-friendly instruction.