Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Fort Smith

Affordability

According to Census ACS 5-Year data (as of 2024), the median gross rent in Fort Smith is $884 per month, and the median household income is $54,816 per year. About 47% of residents rent their homes, reflecting a large renter community with real need for affordable options.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Fort Smith Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 845 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and jurisdiction definitions.

Getting Around Fort Smith

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in Fort Smith has a Walk Score of 45 (Car-Dependent) and a Bike Score of 41. No Transit Score is available. Most errands and trips will likely require a personal vehicle.

Schools

Fort Smith is served by 30 public schools across 5 districts, including 17 elementary, 4 middle, 8 high schools, and 1 other, according to NCES Common Core of Data. Quality and programs vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address before applying.

Cost of Renting in Fort Smith

The median household income in Fort Smith is $54,816 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year data. Understanding local income levels can help you gauge whether market-rate or income-restricted housing is the right fit for your budget.

The median market rent in Fort Smith is $884 per month, according to Census ACS 5-Year data. Income-based and HUD-assisted units in the city may offer rents below this figure, depending on your household income and the specific program.

• Median household income: $54,816/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $884/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Share of renter households: 47% (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Affordable and income-based units tracked on Lease Lantern: 674 across 5 properties

Flood and Environmental Exposure

All 5 HUD-assisted properties in Fort Smith have been mapped for flood risk. None are located in a high-risk flood zone, which is a positive sign for renters concerned about flood exposure.