Conway Cost of Living Guide (2025): What It Really Costs to Live in Conway, Arkansas

Conway, Arkansas is one of the most affordable, high-quality cities in Central Arkansas. With strong schools, low housing costs, a stable job market, and a thriving college-town culture, Conway consistently ranks as one of the most attractive places to relocate in the region. This guide provides a complete cost of living breakdown—including housing, utilities, groceries, taxes, transportation, and lifestyle—designed for families, first-time buyers, professionals, retirees, and anyone relocating to Conway. Curated by Ashley Watters, a leading REALTOR® for Conway, Greenbrier, Little Rock, and Faulkner County.

Conway Cost of Living Guide

Conway has that rare combination of affordability, quality, convenience, and culture that families, professionals, and relocation buyers dream about. The cost of living here feels balanced—never inflated, never stagnant. Just right.

People moving from Texas, Florida, Tennessee, Colorado, and California say the same thing:

“It feels like I’m getting more life for my dollar.”

This guide breaks down every major cost so you can understand exactly what your money buys in Conway.

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Housing Costs in Conway, Arkansas

Housing is the heartbeat of cost of living—and this is where Conway shines brightest.

Home Prices

Most buyers start their search inside the Conway Homes for Sale Mega Hub, where they quickly find:

Compared to Little Rock, Conway consistently offers newer, better-conditioned homes at the same—or lower—price points.
Buyers exploring Living in Conway  often cite this as the #1 reason they choose Conway.

Rent Prices

For those not ready to buy yet, monthly rents typically range:

  • 1-bedroom apartments: $800–$1,050

  • 2-bedroom apartments: $1,000–$1,300

  • Single-family homes: $1,400–$1,900

  • Higher-end homes: $2,000–$3,500 depending on size & area

Relocation clients often start here before buying through Ashley.

Housing Costs in Conway, Arkansas

Utilities & Monthly Bills

Utility costs in Conway run below national averages.

Electricity & Gas

Average monthly bill: $150–$250 depending on home size and season.

Water, Sewer & Trash

Typical cost: $50–$90 / month.

Internet

Most households fall between:

  • $60–$100 / month

  • Fiber available in many areas

This lower utility profile is a major factor for buyers moving via the Moving to Conway Guide 

Transportation Costs in Conway

Conway is extremely commutable.

  • Most residents drive

  • Shorter commute times than Little Rock

  • Easy access to I-40

Average Commute Time

  • Within Conway: 8–14 minutes

  • To Little Rock: 25–30 minutes

This makes Conway one of the rare cities where people get both suburban calm and access to city careers.

Taxes in Conway, Arkansas

Property Taxes

Property taxes in Conway / Faulkner County fall below many similar metros.

  • Average annual property tax on a standard home: $1,200–$2,400

Luxury homes run higher depending on price; acreage homes vary based on land.

Many buyers compare tax implications by reviewing the Conway Market Report.

Income Taxes

Arkansas has a moderate income tax structure, generally lower than coastal states.

Grocery & Food Costs

Food prices align closely with national averages, with some areas coming in lower.

  • Groceries: 3–8% below U.S. average

  • Dining out: affordable + excellent local options

  • Higher-end restaurants still cost far less than major metro markets

This balance often delights newcomers reading the Living in Conway Guide.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare is delivered through Conway Regional Health and nearby Little Rock major hospitals. Costs remain moderate and typically lower than national averages.

Childcare & Education Costs

Childcare

Expect $600–$1,100 / month depending on care level and age group.

Public Schools

Conway Public Schools are among the strongest in Arkansas and a major value driver.

Parents usually start with the Conway Schools Guide.

Lifestyle & Recreation Costs

Conway’s lifestyle costs feel almost unfair—in a good way.

  • Parks & trails: free

  • Fitness centers: $20–$60

  • Country clubs: varies, typically modest vs. national averages

  • Lake recreation: low-cost or free

  • Entertainment: campus and community-driven

This is part of what draws luxury buyers and acreage seekers.

How the Cost of Living in Conway Compares to Other Cities

Conway vs. Little Rock

  • Conway is safer

  • Stronger school reputation

  • Newer housing stock

  • Lower taxes

  • Better price-to-value ratio

  • Little Rock

  • homes prices are higher on average

Conway vs. Greenbrier

Greenbrier  offers more acreage and rural quiet.

Conway offers more amenities, universities, and variety.

Conway vs. Benton/Bryant

Conway offers similar affordability with better colleges and more job diversity.

Conway vs. Out-of-State Markets

Buyers relocating from TX, FL, CO, WA, CA say the same thing:

“Conway feels like a discount on life without a discount on lifestyle.”

Who Benefits Most from Conway’s Cost of Living?

  • Families wanting affordability + schools

  • Remote professionals seeking value

  • Executives wanting luxury without metro chaos

  • VA buyers using benefits effectively

  • First-time buyerswho want stability

  • Retirees seeking a peaceful, walkable town

  • Investors targeting college-town rental demand

See the Conway First-Time Buyers Guide and Conway VA Buyers Guide 

FAQ

Is Conway expensive compared to the rest of Arkansas?

No. Conway is considered moderately priced with excellent value.

Is Conway cheaper than Little Rock?

In most cases—yes. Especially regarding housing, schools, and long-term appreciation.

Is Conway good for families?

It’s one of the best family cities in Arkansas.

See → Conway Schools Guide 

Is Conway a good place to retire?

Absolutely. Affordable, calm, safe, with great medical access.

What’s the biggest cost advantage in Conway?

Housing + taxes + quality schools = long-term value.

Contact Ashley