Average Rent in Fort Smith, AR↑ Rents rising 2.1% YoY

Fort Smith, AR has rental prices ranging from $689/month to $1,496/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $694/month — 50% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $56,717/year, spending $694/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Fort Smith Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $910/month, Fort Smith ranks #12 most expensive of the 67 cities tracked in Arkansas — more affordable than 68% of all US cities in our data.

The Fort Smith Rental Market

The Fort Smith, AR area has a population of about 228,916 and 34% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Fort Smith, AR have risen by $19/month (2.1%) over the past year, from $891 to $910. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Fort Smith, AR without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,760. The local median household income of $56,717 exceeds that threshold by $28,957, making Fort Smith relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Fort Smith, AR is $198,396, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 18.2. With a break-even horizon of approximately 18 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Is Fort Smith, AR Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Fort Smith?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Fort Smith

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.