9 Best Places to Live in The Ozarks
For people who have watched the Netflix TV drama series, Ozark, you might wonder if the mountainous regions encompassing the states of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Illinois are as intense and chaotic as the show depicts. Fortunately, many locations have proven to be some of the best places to live. From the lakeside charm of Lake Ozark to the healing springs of Eureka Springs, these towns have a load of benefits and attractions. Affordable housing, great connectivity, and friendly locals are just some reasons that make the Ozarks so special. Thus, consider the following towns and cities if you are looking for a home in the American mountains, near majestic lakes and entertained by many historical interests.
Lake Ozark, Missouri
The first place to consider living out your humble life in the Ozarks ought to be in Lake Ozark, located near the Lake of the Ozarks. Due to the town's prime location next to a premier lake resort, Lake Ozark promotes a bounty of recreational events and natural parks for people who want to escape the concrete jungles of the big cities. For example, swimming, surfing, and boating are just a few ways to have a blast. Or, opt to stay on land with areas like The Ridge Golf Course and the Majestic Oaks RV Park where golf, hiking, and camping are popular.
With a median household income of $74,094, $9,000 higher than the state average, Lake Ozark is a promising locale to reside. Any retirees need not worry too much about taxes as there are no state taxes on Social Security benefits in Missouri. While the average home in Lake Ozark costs $284,200, higher than the state average of $199,400, the stunning waterside locale justifies the price.
Branson, Missouri
For those eager to experience the excitement and emotional release of theater, Branson is a must-visit. The town boasts numerous cultural venues along 76 Country Boulevard, with over a hundred shows and entertainment options nearly every month. Additionally, the area features unique attractions such as Marvel Cave, Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Theater with a Wild West theme, and Silver Dollar City—a historic amusement park set in the 1800s where music and festivities thrive.
Although the poverty rate is 26.8%, Branson compensates by having an affordable housing market, with an average home costing $201,900. Moreover, with a reasonable median rent of $916, those who don’t plan on buying will have no trouble renting an amazing house.
Battlefield, Missouri
Battlefield, despite its tough name, is actually a safe and straightforward city in Missouri. It has a low poverty rate of 4.2% and a high median household income of $82,302. With a population of around 6,000, the town has a warm, welcoming atmosphere, evident in friendly local conversations. Additionally, it is just a short drive from Springfield, providing easy access to its amenities and services.
As for the local attractions in Battlefield, you will find American Civil War-themed memorabilia at the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, a historic landmark as seen in Ray Farmhouse, and quaint learning centers like the Missouri Institute of Natural Science. Food joints are also plentiful, such as Godfather’s Pizza and Wire Road Brewing Company which are known for their pizza and drinks respectively.
Jasper, Arkansas
Jasper offers a wealth of spectacular forest camps and hiking trails for those eager to explore. As the gateway to the Buffalo National River, also known as the Little Buffalo River, and the stunning Round Top Mountain, visitors can enjoy the impressive scenery of the Ozarks just a short walk away. The town provides numerous outdoor activities for locals and visitors alike, including hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting.
The town also houses two locations sharing the name “Bradley,” the Bradley House Museum and Bradley Park, offering an insight into local history and nature respectively. In terms of affordability, Jasper sits in the mid-range, with a median housing value of $162,000, the same as the state average. Moreover, with less than 1,000 residents, the town offers a natural reprieve from urban hustle and bustle.
Van Buren, Missouri
The town of Van Buren is a resplendent community in the Current River and was named after President Martin Van Buren. It offers people perfect access to the Mark Twain National Forest, so named after the famous American author Mark Twain. Just 45 minutes away, the massive forest showcases 1.5 million acres of hills, forests, and rivers in the heart of Missouri’s wilderness. There is also the Ozark National Scenic Riverways which people are always sauntering beside.
The majestic riverways are complemented by Big Spring, a striking blue geological marvel known as Missouri's largest spring and one of the biggest in the US, with an average output of approximately 280 million gallons of water daily. In town, Van Buren provides residents with excellent amenities and services as the county seat of Carter County. From Van Buren Senior High School for teenagers to Riverways Manor Nursing Home for seniors, residents can enjoy fundamental comforts. Additionally, the town is highly affordable, with a median property value under $150,000.
Batesville, Arkansas
About 90 miles northeast of Little Rock, the town of Batesville is one of Arkansas’s oldest towns, founded more than 200 years ago. Nowadays, it is home to many merry folks and fine individuals who enjoy watching shows at the Melba Theater or strolling the Polk (or Poke) Bayou Park along the White River. The Mark Martin NASCAR Museum is a prime attraction, built in honor of NASCAR racing star Mark Martin, and showcases many of his memorabilia.
You might also fancy taking a peek at the past in one of the many historic trails of the Arkansas Heritage Trails System, each showcasing a unique side of local history and nature. Whatever the case, rest assured that getting around town is easy, as Batesville has a mean travel time to work of just 13 minutes. It is also connected via six state highways for great connectivity, so residents can always head out when needed.
Bella Vista, Arkansas
Looking for a place with stunning views of the Ozarks? Bella Vista, which means 'beautiful views' in Spanish, is an ideal choice. This charming town offers a tranquil atmosphere, has a low poverty rate of 3.2%, and boasts a high median household income of $83,989. Winding trails, such as the Tanyard Creek Trail and Bluebird, invite outdoor adventures, while Lake Windsor and Lake Ann provide scenic opportunities for exploration.
You can feel the tranquility of the pristine city at the Cooper Memorial Chapel, a magnificent combination of nature and human ingenuity. Or, one can learn of Bella Vista’s history at the Museum of Native American History and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, a short drive in Bentonville. Along with all the activities, Bella Vista is an excellent place for retirees, as more than 32% of the local population is above 65. Thus, there is never a dull moment in town.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is a magical and majestic settlement in the Ozark mountains near Beaver Lake. Feel safe and warm as a Christ of the Ozarks Statue watches over the quaint town. One can take a refreshing dip in the many cold spring waters of the area, which Native American legends say can cure any ailment and ease all worries away. Be mindful of bears and big cats in Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, and spelunk through the many “living” caves and caverns at Onyx Cave Park.
Residents here can let their anxieties disappear since the town boasts an affordable housing market. The average rent costs less than $800, which is on the lower end for cities in Arkansas. Moreover, an array of homes are available, from small bungalows to large waterside mansions, so everyone can find their dream residence in Eureka Springs.
Fulton, Missouri
Fulton is a charming town that exudes vibrant heritage through tales of the past. At Westminster College in town, Sir Winston Churchill delivered his “Iron Curtain” speech, forewarning the threat of the Cold War. Thus, history enthusiasts love to call Fulton home and have plenty of ways to enjoy themselves. For example, the National Churchill Museum elaborates on the Prime Minister’s harrowing ventures during England’s “darkest hour.”
Similarly, the Breakthrough sculpture by Edwina Sandys, Churchill’s daughter, commemorates the Berlin Wall’s fall. Residents of Fulton can enjoy numerous amenities in the Brick District or take relaxing walks along the Stinson Creek Trail. With a welcoming community of 12,600 people and an affordable median home price of $144,000, Fulton offers a comfortable place to spend many years.
Conclusion
As the largest area of fierce topography between the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains, the Ozarks has remained the land of hidden beauty and secluded secrets. Among these beautiful secrets are the best places to spend years living a simple yet beautiful lifestyle. Most of the aforementioned towns and cities are primarily located in Missouri and Arkansas, but there may undoubtedly be a few unmentioned and underrated residences in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Illinois that are suitable and affordable to live at. Whether you are lounging in Jasper or Eureka Springs, enjoying the theatrics, or admiring history at Van Buren or Branson, these towns and cities are amazing destinations to settle down.
