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Conway, Arkansas

What It Is Like to Retire in Conway

Conway, Arkansas, is a bustling college town and one of the fastest growing communities in the state, with a population of over 60,000, and a median age of only 27. It is approximately 30 miles northwest of Little Rock, and was founded in 1875 by A.P. Robinson, who came to the area after the Civil War. Conway's history includes the Cherokee Indians, who took the Trail of Tears (1831-1838), and trekked through the area, stopping along the Arkansas River. This location is now preserved as Caldron Settlement Park, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property. Conway also occupies a spot on the legendary Butterfield Mail Route, which ran from Memphis to Chicago. Today, the town is home to three post-secondary educational institutions, earning it the nickname, "The City of Colleges".

Where to Retire in Conway and Home Prices

Zillow refers to Conway as a "Very Hot" market, and reports the median home value at $165,934 in early 2020.

What Is Special about Conway

Conway is a very popular sport-fishing destination and home to the largest man-made Game and Fish Commission lake in the United States. Lake Conway is known for it's largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. The Arkansas Crappie Masters state tournament is held here every year.

What Is Not Special about Conway

Summers are hot and humid; the closest international airport is in Memphis, about 170 miles away; You have to like a college town with a young median age.

Who Will Like Retirement in Conway

Retirees who want a vibrant, walkable community with all the atmosphere of a college town including arts, music and restaurants.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Construction, retail and manufacturing

Climate and Physical Environment

Conway experiences hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. The average January temperature is 38 degrees, with the average July temperature about 81 degrees.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Conway residents have access to many cultural activities and events as the Conway Community Arts Association has been presenting theatre and other art opportunities to the community for over thirty years. The Conway Symphony Orchestra performs several times throughout the year, and the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre hosts a festival each summer. Conway's three colleges also provide art, music and theatre productions. The city's most popular annual event is the Toad Suck Daze, a festival full of food, music and crafts. The proceeds from the festival fund college scholarships for local students.