Average Salary in Fort Smith, Arkansas
$48000
$44500
2.2%
What is the Average Salary in Fort Smith, Arkansas?
The average salary in Fort Smith, Arkansas is $48000 per year. Entry-level positions start at $36000, mid-career professionals earn around $48000, and senior-level employees make $62000. The median household income is $44500.
Quick Salary Overview for Fort Smith
| Average Salary: | $48000 |
| Entry-Level: | $36000 |
| Mid-Career: | $48000 |
| Senior-Level: | $62000 |
| Median Household Income: | $44500 |
How Fort Smith Stacks Up
Average Salary
$48000
Competitive for Arkansas markets
Adjusted Value
$53631
After cost of living adjustment
Home Prices
$254900
Median home value
Job Growth
2.2%
Annual employment expansion
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Understanding the Salary Landscape in Fort Smith, Arkansas
If you’re considering a career move to Fort Smith, understanding the local salary landscape is crucial for making informed decisions. With a population of 89142 and an average salary of $48000, Fort Smith offers competitive compensation across various industries.
The median household income in Fort Smith stands at $44500, reflecting the earning potential for families in the area. When adjusted for the cost of living index of 89.5, the real purchasing power translates to approximately $53631 annually.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level in Fort Smith
Career progression in Fort Smith shows clear salary advancement opportunities across different experience levels:
The salary progression from entry-level to senior positions shows strong growth potential, with mid-career professionals earning approximately $48000 and senior-level employees commanding salaries around $62000. For comparison with neighboring states, check out average salaries in Alabama or salaries in Oklahoma.
Top Industries and Employers in Fort Smith
Fort Smith has a diverse economic landscape with several thriving industries driving job growth and competitive salaries:
Highest Paying Industry
Manufacturing
The Manufacturing sector offers the most competitive salaries in Fort Smith, attracting top talent and driving economic growth in Arkansas.
Major Industries in Fort Smith:
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Logistics
Major Employers Hiring in Fort Smith
Some of the largest employers in Fort Smith include: ArcBest, Mercy Hospital, Rheem, Gerber. These companies offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, contributing to the city’s robust job market with a job growth rate of 2.2%.
Cost of Living in Fort Smith: What Your Salary Can Buy
Understanding how far your salary goes in Fort Smith requires analyzing the local cost of living. With a cost of living index of 89.5 (where 100 is the national average), Fort Smith offers good value for money in Arkansas.
Housing
$254900
$1150/month
88
Transportation
98
Groceries
102
Healthcare
92
Monthly Living Costs
$2150
$4680
With housing costs representing a housing index of 88 and an average monthly rent of $1150, Fort Smith provides affordable living options. The median home price of $254900 and estimated monthly necessities of $2150 for a single person or $4680 for a family should be factored into your financial planning.
Job Market and Employment Trends in Fort Smith
The job market in Fort Smith shows promising signs with a job growth rate of 2.2% and an unemployment rate of 4.5%. This indicates a healthy economy with expanding opportunities for job seekers across Arkansas.
For professionals exploring opportunities across the state, our comprehensive Arkansas salary guide provides detailed comparisons to help you identify the best locations for your career growth.
Demographics and Workforce Profile
Fort Smith has a median age of 37.2 years, with 22.5% of the population holding a college degree. This educated workforce contributes to the city’s competitive salary landscape and attracts employers seeking skilled talent. For similar regional opportunities, explore salary data in Tennessee.
Key Takeaways About Salaries in Fort Smith
- š° The average salary in Fort Smith is $48000, with median household income at $44500
- š When adjusted for cost of living (89.5), salaries have approximately $53631 in purchasing power
- šÆ Manufacturing is the highest-paying industry, offering premium compensation packages
- š¢ Major employers like ArcBest, Mercy Hospital, Rheem, Gerber provide stable career opportunities
- š The city shows 2.2% job growth with 4.5% unemployment rate
- š Housing costs include median home prices at $254900 and average rent at $1150
- šµ Monthly living costs: $2150 (single) | $4680 (family)
- š 22.5% of the population holds college degrees, indicating a skilled workforce
Making Your Decision: Is Fort Smith the Right Career Move?
Fort Smith offers a compelling combination of competitive salaries, growing job opportunities, and Arkansas’s affordable lifestyle. With an average salary of $48000 and a cost of living index of 89.5, professionals can enjoy a comfortable standard of living while building their careers.
The city’s 2.2% job growth rate and 4.5% unemployment rate signal a thriving economy with expanding opportunities across multiple industries, particularly in Manufacturing, Healthcare, Logistics.
Whether you’re an entry-level professional earning around $36000 or a senior executive commanding $62000, Fort Smith provides the economic foundation for career growth and financial stability in Arkansas.
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