Conway, AR Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Conway, AR: What You Need to Know

People used to think Conway dwelled in the shadow of Little Rock. Today, this central Arkansas city is known as an educational and business hub in its own right.

Job Opportunities

Conway is the seat of Faulkner County. It’s an important player in the metro Little Rock region, made up of 12 counties. The region has thriving manufacturing, aerospace, information technology, medical, and nonprofit industries. Top employers in Conway include Acxiom Corp. (data processing services), University of Central Arkansas, Conway Human Development Center, Conway Regional Health Center, Hewlett Packard, and Kimberly Clark Corp.

Schools and Higher Education

There are two private and one public university in Conway. The University of Central Arkansas is the biggest of the three, with 11,177 students. There are 27 other higher-education institutions within 100 miles of the city. The Conway School District has 19 public schools serving 10,281 students. The district boasts of an average math proficiency score of 56% versus the Arkansas average of 47%, and a reading proficiency score of 53%, higher than the 44% statewide average.

Local Culture

As a city with not one but three universities, Conway enjoys a lively arts and cultural scene. The Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre (AST), the state’s only Shakespearean company, brings experienced actors to Conway in every production season. AST runs the Groundlings Company, a training program for actors 18 and under, which provides opportunities to participate in workshops with professional artists and to put on their own shows. The Baum Gallery of Fine Art at the University of Central Arkansas showcases the works of local and national artists. The gallery selects touring exhibitions, sponsors juried student shows, and curates original exhibits.

Cost of Living

Not many people realize that Arkansas has one of the highest sales taxes in the United States. Conway (population: 67,638) is an affordable place to live, but newcomers should factor in taxes. Conway’s cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 9.3%, 11.3%, and 19% lower than the national average respectively. The median gross rent in the city is $825. Arkansas levies 0% to 6.90% in income tax and 6.50% to 11.625% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

Conway is considered a suburb of Little Rock, 34 miles away, although not many residents commute to the state capital. Residents love their city for its excellent amenities, top-notch schools, and clean and safe environment. Half of all residents of this college town rent. Other Little Rock suburbs in Faulkner County known for good schools include Cardon Township and Greenbrier.