A recent survey of Northwest Arkansas residents conducted by the Walton Family Foundation shows that most are satisfied with the quality of life in the area, but there is a decline in positive perceptions compared to similar surveys in 2018 and 2015.
The majority of respondents (64%) rated their overall quality of life as “excellent” or “very good,” while 37% said their quality of life had “increased” or “improved significantly” compared to the previous year. The main reasons cited for a decline in quality of life were the rising cost of living, an unfavorable political climate, and the perceived deterioration of the economic situation.
“We are optimistic that the fourth edition of our quality of life surveys shows an overall positive sentiment about living in Northwest Arkansas,” said Robert Burns, director of the Walton Family Foundation Home Region Program. “While there is still work to be done, especially after the recent storms, the survey responses are invaluable in helping us and the region understand community needs.”
Residents said transportation and housing were the areas that needed the most improvement in the region. Less than a quarter of respondents rated transportation (18%) and housing (23%) as “excellent” or “very good.” About half of respondents rated them as “poor” or “fair.” Only 29% of respondents think affordable housing is easily accessible and only 39% think transportation is easily accessible.
The survey also found that 74% of respondents are optimistic about the community’s future and expect to be part of it for a long time. However, only 54% of respondents believe the community has good leadership.
Tom Walton, grandson of Walmart founders Helen and Sam Walton and chairman of the Walton Family Foundation’s Home Region Program Committee, commented on the slight decline in positive sentiment.
“There are a few areas where we can improve, but the good news is that most people still have a strong sense of community, trust and hope for the future. The community aspect is especially important to me. I grew up here in Northwest Arkansas and know that this region is a special place where anything is possible. But we can’t take that for granted,” Walton noted in a foundation statement.
