Cost of Living in Helena-West Helena, AR

With a cost of living index of 60, Helena-West Helena, AR is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 40% cheaper than the national average and 10% below the Arkansas state average of 70. Helena-West Helena is a smaller community of 9,218 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Helena-West Helena's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $774 (41% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $72,300 (76% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Helena-West Helena is $32,466, which is 57% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 29% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.