Survey measures NWA quality of life sentiment; most rank it ‘excellent’

A recent survey of Northwest Arkansas residents conducted by the Walton Family Foundation shows that most are happy with quality of life in the region, there is a decline in positive perceptions compared with similar surveys in 2018 and 2015.

The majority of respondents (64%) rated their overall quality of life as “excellent” or “very good,” while 37% said their quality of life had “increased” or “significantly increased” compared to a year ago. The top reasons cited for a decrease in quality of life included responses related to the rising cost of living, an unfavorable political climate and the perceived worsening state of the economy.

“We’re optimistic to see that the fourth installment of our Quality of Life surveys shows an overall positive sentiment about living in Northwest Arkansas,” said Robert Burns, director of the Walton Family Foundation Home Region Program. “While there is still work to do, especially after recent storms, the survey responses are invaluable in helping us, and the region, understand community needs.”

Residents identified transportation and housing options as the areas that needed most improvement in the region. Less than a quarter of respondents rated transportation (18%) and housing options (23%) as “excellent” or “very good.” Around half of respondents rated them “poor” or “fair.” Just 29% of respondents consider affordable housing easy to access, and only 39% consider transportation options easy to access.

The survey also found that 74% of respondents feel hopeful about the community’s future and expect to be part of it for a long time. However, only 54% of respondents think the community has good leadership.

Tom Walton, grandson of Walmart founders Helen and Sam Walton, and chair of the Walton Family Foundation’s Home Region Program Committee, addressed the slight decline in positive sentiment.

“There are a few areas where we can improve, but the good news is most people still have a strong sense of community, trust, and hope for the future. The community aspect is especially important to me. I grew up here in Northwest Arkansas, and I know that this region is a special place where anything is possible. But we can’t take that for granted,” Walton noted in a statement from the foundation.