What is the average salary in Fort Smith, AR?
Fort Smith, AR, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in the area is $55,461. This figure provides a good overview of what job seekers might expect to earn. The salary distribution shows a mix of lower and higher-paying jobs, offering options for different skill levels and experience.
The most common salary range in Fort Smith is between $24,000 and $100,727. This range covers a broad spectrum of jobs, from entry-level positions to more skilled roles. For example, jobs in the lower range include roles like retail sales and administrative support. Higher-paying jobs often require more education or specialized skills. These include roles in healthcare, engineering, and management. Job seekers can find a variety of opportunities that match their qualifications and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Fort Smith, AR?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $135,877
This role involves providing primary and specialty care. It requires working with patients of all ages. Nurse practitioners work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $115,601
Counselors help people with personal and emotional challenges. They work in schools, hospitals, and private practices. They provide support and guidance to improve mental health.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $111,797
This role involves selling products or services to businesses. It requires meeting new clients and maintaining relationships. Sales reps often work in industries like manufacturing, technology, and healthcare.
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Regional Manager
Average Salary: $101,666
Regional managers oversee operations in a specific area. They coordinate between different departments. They work in industries like retail, hospitality, and manufacturing.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $98,920
This role involves helping people with speech and language disorders. It requires working with patients of all ages. Speech pathologists work in schools, hospitals, and clinics.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $97,023
Traveling nurses work in various locations. They provide care in different settings. This role requires flexibility and adaptability. Nurses often work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $81,598
CDL drivers transport goods across long distances. They must follow safety regulations. This role involves driving trucks and vans. Drivers work in logistics, transportation, and delivery companies.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $80,695
Occupational therapists help people with disabilities. They work on improving daily living skills. Therapists work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers.
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Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $75,878
This role involves transporting hazardous materials. It requires following strict safety protocols. Drivers work in industries like chemicals, oil, and gas.
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Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $71,771
Clinical supervisors oversee healthcare staff. They ensure quality care and compliance with regulations. Supervisors work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.
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What are the best paying jobs in Fort Smith, AR without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $40,735
This role involves working with concrete to build structures. It requires skill in handling tools and materials. Companies like local construction firms offer this job.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $34,217
This job involves cutting and trimming meat for sale. It requires attention to detail and knowledge of meat cuts. Local grocery stores and butcher shops provide this opportunity.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $32,950
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Opportunities exist with local eateries and chains.
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Loader
Average Salary: $32,692
This role involves loading and unloading goods. It requires physical strength and attention to detail. Companies in logistics and retail offer this job.
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Server
Average Salary: $32,292
Serve food and drinks to customers. It requires good communication skills and a friendly demeanor. Opportunities are available in local restaurants and cafes.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,004
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or other facilities. It requires attention to detail and a willingness to work. Local hotels and motels offer this job.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $31,605
Maintain the grounds of properties. It involves landscaping and general upkeep. Opportunities exist with local parks and private properties.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $31,241
Assist in providing customer service. It requires a friendly attitude and good communication skills. Local businesses and service-oriented companies offer this job.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $30,701
Support servers in a restaurant. It involves helping with food and drink service. Opportunities are available in local dining establishments.
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Sewing Machine Operator
Average Salary: $30,234
Operate sewing machines to produce garments. It requires skill in handling fabric and machinery. Local garment factories offer this job.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Fort Smith, AR?

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Army National Guard
Average Salary: $77,327
The Army National Guard offers rewarding careers with competitive pay. Members enjoy benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. They serve both locally and nationally, providing valuable experience.
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ABB
Average Salary: $71,563
ABB is a global leader in power and automation technologies. They offer high salaries and a range of benefits. Employees work on innovative projects and have opportunities for career growth.
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Summit Utilities, Inc.
Average Salary: $66,706
Summit Utilities, Inc. provides essential services in energy and water. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. Employees enjoy a stable work environment and opportunities for advancement.
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Mars
Average Salary: $64,274
Mars is a leading manufacturer of pet food and other products. They offer good salaries and benefits. Employees work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for career development.
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Encompass Health
Average Salary: $63,082
Encompass Health provides rehabilitation services. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. Employees work in a supportive environment with opportunities for growth.
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Baptist Health Arkansas
Average Salary: $54,832
Baptist Health Arkansas is a healthcare provider. They offer good salaries and benefits. Employees work in a caring environment with opportunities for professional development.
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Walmart
Average Salary: $54,351
Walmart is a global retail giant. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. Employees enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for advancement.
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Mercy
Average Salary: $52,362
Mercy is a healthcare provider. They offer good salaries and benefits. Employees work in a supportive environment with opportunities for career growth.
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Covington Court Health and Rehabilitation Center
Average Salary: $51,316
Covington Court offers healthcare services. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. Employees work in a caring environment with opportunities for professional development.
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ABF Freight
Average Salary: $50,092
ABF Freight is a leading transportation company. They offer good salaries and benefits. Employees work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth.
How does the cost of living in Fort Smith, AR compare to the national average?

Fort Smith, Arkansas, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Fort Smith is 85, which is 15% below the national average of 100. This lower cost of living makes Fort Smith an attractive option for those looking to reduce their expenses without sacrificing quality of life. Housing costs in Fort Smith, for example, are 25% below the national average, with an index of 75. This means that housing expenses are significantly more affordable compared to other areas.
In addition to housing, Fort Smith also provides savings in other areas such as groceries and utilities. The grocery index stands at 87, which is 13% lower than the national average. Similarly, the utility index is 95, which is 5% lower. These savings can add up over time, making Fort Smith a financially prudent choice for many. While some areas like healthcare and transportation are close to the national average, the overall lower cost of living makes Fort Smith a compelling destination for those looking to manage their budget effectively.