Is Morrilton Safe, Pros and cons of living in Morrilton
Morrilton, Arkansas, situated in Conway County, offers a blend of small-town charm and essential amenities. The city is home to approximately 7,080 residents, with projections indicating a slight increase to around 7,265 by 2026 (according to the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey). This population makes it a mid-sized city within Arkansas, ranking 55th out of 614 cities in the state. The demographic makeup is predominantly White, at 77.7%, followed by Black residents at 12.8%, and individuals identifying with two or more races at 5.2% (as per the most current US Census data). The median age in Morrilton is 38.4 years, suggesting a stable adult population, though a notable 24.0% of families live below the poverty line (according to the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey).
The cost of living in Morrilton is notably lower than the national average, estimated to be 17% less expensive than the U.S. average and 2% less expensive than the average city in Arkansas (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including food, transportation, housing, and healthcare costs. The median household income in Morrilton was reported at $47,572 in 2024 (according to the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey).
Is it Safe to Live in Morrilton?
Morrilton presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that are a significant consideration for potential residents. The overall crime rate in Morrilton is higher than the national average. Specifically, the total crime rate is 58% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents (as reported by Area Vibes).
Violent crime rates in Morrilton are also above the national average. There were 38 violent crimes reported, equating to 534 per 100,000 individuals, which is 48.8% higher than the national average (as reported by Area Vibes). Property crime rates are also elevated, with 200 property crimes recorded, amounting to 2812 per 100,000 residents, exceeding the national average by 59.8% (as reported by Area Vibes). While zero homicides were reported in the most recent crime year, the overall statistics suggest a need for caution (as reported by Area Vibes).
Crime Statistics Breakdown
The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Morrilton is approximately 1 in 188, while the chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 36 (as reported by Area Vibes). These figures indicate a higher risk compared to national averages. Some analyses place Morrilton’s crime rate at 33 per one thousand residents, which is considered high when compared to communities of all sizes across America (as reported by NeighborhoodScout).
However, some sources offer a slightly different perspective, indicating the overall crime rate is 6% below the national average, with a 1 in 272 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 47 chance for property crime (as reported by DoorProfit). This discrepancy highlights the importance of researching specific neighborhoods within Morrilton for a more nuanced understanding of safety.
Housing Market and Cost of Living
The housing market in Morrilton offers relatively affordable options, though it is described as somewhat competitive. The median sale price of a home in Morrilton was approximately $143,000 last month, showing a slight increase of 1.0% from the previous year (as reported by Redfin). The median property value was estimated at $160,900 in 2024 (as reported by Data USA).
Rental prices in Morrilton are also considerably lower than the national average. The average rent in Morrilton is $750 per month, which is 62.5% lower than the national average (as reported by Zillow). This makes renting a more accessible option for many individuals and families.
Home Prices and Rental Trends
The median listing price for homes in Morrilton is around $266,300, with a median price per square foot of $136 (as reported by Realtor.com®). Homes in Morrilton tend to sell for about 1.23% below the asking price and typically go pending in around 79 days (as reported by Realtor.com®). The rental market shows a median rent of $700 per month, indicating a stable demand for both buying and renting properties (as reported by Realtor.com®).
The Zillow Home Value Index indicates a typical home value of $163,947, with a 5.6% increase over the past year (as of March 31, 2026) (as reported by Zillow). This suggests a moderate appreciation in home values within the Morrilton area.
Job Market and Economy
Morrilton’s economy has historically relied on manufacturing and agriculture, but it has been working to diversify its economic base in recent decades. The city experienced significant job losses in the late 1990s when major employers closed, leading to a temporary surge in unemployment (as reported by AY Magazine). However, through strategic efforts, Morrilton has attracted new industries and replaced many of the lost jobs (as reported by AY Magazine).
The unemployment rate in Arkansas, as of March 2026, was 4.3% (as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). While specific unemployment figures for Morrilton are not readily available, the state average provides a general economic context. Major employers in the Morrilton area include Walmart, McDonald’s, Dollar General, Kroger, and Tractor Supply Company, among others (as listed on Indeed.com). The University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton also plays a role in the local economy and workforce development (as reported by City of Morrilton).
Major Employers and Employment Opportunities
The economic landscape of Morrilton includes a mix of retail, manufacturing, and service-based businesses. Companies like Walmart and McDonald’s are significant employers, providing numerous job opportunities in the retail and service sectors (as listed on Indeed.com). Additionally, local businesses such as Morrilton Packing and Petit Jean Meats contribute to the employment base, showcasing a blend of established companies and smaller, privately held firms (as reported by AY Magazine).
The city has actively sought to recruit new businesses to diversify its employment opportunities and minimize the impact of potential industry closures. This economic development strategy aims to create a more resilient and varied job market for its residents.
Climate and Weather
Morrilton experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and muggy summers and short, cold, and wet winters. The summers typically run from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 84°F. July is the hottest month, with average highs around 92°F and lows of 72°F (as reported by Time and Date).
Winters are generally cold, with average daily high temperatures below 58°F from late November to late February. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 32°F and highs of 51°F (as reported by Time and Date). The area experiences mild seasonal variation in cloud cover throughout the year.
Temperature and Precipitation
The average annual rainfall in Morrilton is approximately 50 inches (as reported by Livability.com). Snowfall is minimal, averaging around 3 inches per year (as reported by Livability.com). The climate is described as partly cloudy year-round.
Over the course of the year, temperatures typically range from 31°F to 93°F, rarely dropping below 18°F or exceeding 101°F (as reported by Time and Date). The period from early June to mid-September is considered the best time for hot-weather activities, with a peak in early July (as reported by Time and Date).
Education and School Ratings
Morrilton is served by public schools within the South Conway County School District. The district includes Morrilton Elementary School, Morrilton Intermediate School, and Morrilton Senior High School. Morrilton Elementary School received an overall Niche grade of B- (as reported by Niche).
Morrilton Intermediate School is rated as above average, with an overall Niche grade of B (as reported by Niche). Morrilton Senior High School also holds an overall Niche grade of B- (as reported by Niche). These ratings are based on analyses of key statistics and reviews from students and parents.
School Performance and Diversity
Morrilton Elementary School has a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1, with 31% of students proficient in math and 32% in reading, according to state test scores (as reported by Niche). Morrilton Intermediate School has a student-teacher ratio of 17 to 1, with 43% of students proficient in math and 37% in reading (as reported by Niche). At Morrilton Senior High School, 25% of students are proficient in math and 32% in reading, with a student-teacher ratio of 7 to 1 (as reported by Niche).
The diversity grades for these schools are generally strong. Morrilton Elementary School is ranked among the most diverse public elementary schools in Arkansas (as reported by Niche). Morrilton Intermediate School also receives an A- for diversity (as reported by Niche).
Demographics and Community
Morrilton has a population of approximately 7,080 residents as of the most current US Census data (as reported by vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com). The racial makeup is primarily White (77.7%), followed by Black (12.8%) and Two or More Races (5.2%) (as reported by vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com). The median age is 38.4 years (as reported by vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com).
A significant portion of the population, 24.0%, lives below the poverty line (as reported by vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com). The majority of residents are U.S. citizens, with 98.7% holding citizenship (as reported by Data USA). Most households consist of a single primary language spoken at home, with no households reporting a non-English primary language (as reported by Data USA).
Population Trends and Characteristics
The population of Morrilton is projected to grow slightly, reaching an estimated 7,265 by 2026 (as reported by vertexaisearch.cloud.google.com). The city offers a sparse suburban feel, with most residents owning their homes (as reported by Niche). Many families and young professionals reside in Morrilton, and the community tends to be conservative (as reported by Niche).
The average commute time for residents is around 22 minutes, and the average household owns two cars (as reported by Data USA). This suggests a community that is generally car-dependent, typical of many suburban and smaller urban areas.
Pros and Cons of Living in Morrilton
Morrilton offers several advantages for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle. The cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). The housing market, both for purchasing and renting, presents more accessible price points compared to many other areas (as reported by Redfin and Zillow).
The community is also noted for its sparse suburban feel, which can appeal to those who prefer a quieter environment with a sense of close-knit community (as reported by Niche). The public schools are generally considered above average (as reported by Niche).
However, Morrilton also presents challenges, most notably concerning crime rates. The city’s crime rate is higher than the national average, with elevated rates for both violent and property crimes (as reported by Area Vibes). This is a significant factor for individuals and families prioritizing safety.
Another consideration is the poverty rate, with 24.0% of families living below the poverty line (as reported by the US Census Bureau’s American Community Survey). While the city is working to diversify its economy, employment opportunities in higher-paying sectors may be more limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. The population size, being relatively small, might also mean fewer amenities and entertainment options than in larger cities.