Life in Hot Springs, Arkansas

Considering relocating to join us at CHI St. Vincent? Along with the many benefits of joining our ministry, the low cost of living and high quality of life is a secret we want to share with you! Here are just a few reasons you’ll love living in Arkansas.

Hot Springs

Hot Springs is a city in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas. It’s known for naturally heated springs, many of them in Hot Springs National Park to the north. Bathhouse Row has 8 bathhouses from the 19th and 20th centuries. These include Buckstaff Baths, with thermal baths. The elaborate, stained-glass-and-marble Fordyce Bathhouse has a lobby fountain and houses the park’s visitors center and museum.

Cost of Living

Did you know the cost of living in central Arkansas is half the cost of living in the New York City area? Use this cost of living calculator to see how your earnings compare.

Commuting

Considering the average commute to work is 21 minutes, rush hour becomes less than a half hour. So you’ll have the gift of more time to spend doing the things you love to do outside work.

Mild 4-Season Climate

The breathtaking scenic beauty in Arkansas is showcased during all four seasons. Our average annual temperature is 61.4 degrees.

Spectacular doesn’t begin to describe the fall foliage, which rivals the leaf peeping in New England. In the spring, be sure to check out the Tulip Extravaganza at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs.

National and State Parks

Our extensive network of parks in The Natural State includes 52 state and seven national parks. From hiking and boating to watching wildlife, you’ll find unique activities from digging for diamonds to listening to live music at a folk center. And all this “green” gives us an air quality score of 91.9 on a scale of 100.

Festivals

Have you ever heard of the World's Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade? Toad Suck Daze? The Wye Mountain Daffodil Festival? The Hope Watermelon Festival or the Pink Tomato Festival? If there’s not a reason to celebrate, we’ll make one! Residents in towns and counties around the state have events to showcase their unique heritage, and we love to welcome newcomers.

Mountains and Lakes, Rivers and Streams

Three mountain ranges ensure spectacular views -- the highest peak is 2,753 at the height of Mount Magazine, and don’t miss the sunset at Mount Nebo. 17.2 million acres of forests gives Arkansans an abundance of opportunities to go get lost in the woods.

With 600,000 acres of lakes and 9,700 miles of streams and rivers, you’re never far from the water and water sports. Floating the Buffalo National River is a rite of passage for any Arkansan.

Sports and Recreation

With several long-distance trails and dozens of shorter hikes that are enjoyable in any season, Arkansas is easily one of the best states for hiking in America.

The scenic beauty of Arkansas is a natural complement to the game of golf. And Arkansas makes for great fishing all year long, even during the winter months.

Other opportunities for sports and recreation at your leisure include adventure sports, canoeing and kayaking, biking, racetracks, stadiums and sports facilities, motor sports, hunting, and snorkeling and scuba.

Culture and Restaurants

With so many diverse populations in the Hot Springs area, the restaurant scene is becoming well known nationally as a premier destination for foodies. And our city is a vibrant hub of live music, performing arts, museums and galleries.