Cost of Living in Fort Smith, AR-OK

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Fort Smith? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — AR-OK levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($937/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Fort Smith metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $51,515, or roughly $4,293 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Fort Smith metro has a cost of living index of 50.8 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 49% below the national average, Fort Smith is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Fort Smith represents approximately 16% of gross income. That is well within the 30% rule of thumb that financial advisors typically recommend, leaving significant room for savings and discretionary spending. AR-OK's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.