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 $54,919. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential for job seekers in the region. The salary distribution shows a mix of lower, middle, and higher-paying jobs.
The most common salary range falls between $24,000 and $81,545. This range covers a significant portion of the workforce, with 51.20% of jobs falling in this category. Higher-paying jobs, those above $158,273, make up a smaller but notable part of the job market. These figures highlight the diverse economic landscape of Fort Smith, offering opportunities for different skill levels and career aspirations.
What are the best paying jobs in Fort Smith, AR?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $138,382
Nurse Practitioners work in clinics and hospitals, providing primary and specialty care. They often work with local healthcare providers to ensure patients receive the best care. Fort Smith has several clinics and hospitals that offer opportunities for Nurse Practitioners.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $110,497
Outside Sales Representatives travel to meet with clients and promote products. They work for companies like automotive dealers and tech firms. Fort Smith has a growing business community, offering many sales opportunities.
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Regional Manager
Average Salary: $104,383
Regional Managers oversee operations in a specific area. They coordinate with local teams to meet company goals. Fort Smith has many businesses that need strong regional management to succeed.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $99,496
Speech Language Pathologists help people with communication and swallowing disorders. They work in hospitals, schools, and clinics. Fort Smith has several healthcare facilities that need these professionals.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $96,728
Traveling Nurses work in various locations, providing care where needed. They often work with temporary staffing agencies. Fort Smith has many healthcare facilities that need flexible nursing staff.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $82,579
CDL Drivers transport goods across the country. They work for logistics companies and need a commercial driver's license. Fort Smith has many businesses that rely on trucking for deliveries.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $81,792
Occupational Therapists help people recover from injuries or illnesses. They work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. Fort Smith has several facilities that need these skilled therapists.
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Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $75,928
Hazardous Materials Tanker Drivers transport dangerous goods. They need special training and licenses. Fort Smith has many companies that handle hazardous materials, offering job opportunities.
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Insurance Agent
Average Salary: $73,894
Insurance Agents help people find the right insurance policies. They work for insurance companies and need strong communication skills. Fort Smith has many insurance firms that need knowledgeable agents.
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Production Supervisor
Average Salary: $67,619
Production Supervisors oversee manufacturing processes. They ensure that production runs smoothly and efficiently. Fort Smith has many manufacturing plants that need experienced supervisors.
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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: $39,707
This role involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. It is a hands-on job that requires attention to detail. Companies like local construction firms offer this opportunity.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $34,747
Meat cutters work in grocery stores and butcher shops. They slice and prepare meat for sale. This job is steady and offers good pay. Local supermarkets and butcheries are hiring.
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Server
Average Salary: $32,753
Servers work in restaurants and cafes. They take orders and serve food and drinks. This job requires good customer service skills. Many local eateries are looking for servers.
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Loader
Average Salary: $32,375
Loaders handle materials and products in warehouses. They load and unload items. This job is physical and pays well. Companies in logistics and retail are hiring loaders.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,325
Housekeeping staff clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. They ensure a clean environment for guests. This job is important for the hospitality industry. Local hotels are always looking for housekeepers.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $31,919
Groundskeepers maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and businesses. They perform tasks like mowing lawns and trimming shrubs. This job is outdoors and pays well. Local parks and schools need groundskeepers.
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Powder Coater
Average Salary: $31,023
Powder coaters apply a powder coating to metal parts. They ensure a smooth and even finish. This job requires precision and attention to detail. Local manufacturing companies are hiring powder coaters.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $30,988
Service team members work in fast-food restaurants. They prepare food and serve customers. This job is fast-paced and pays well. Many local fast-food chains are hiring.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $30,588
Server assistants help in restaurants by setting tables and clearing dishes. They support the main servers. This job is entry-level and offers good pay. Local restaurants are looking for server assistants.
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Sewing Machine Operator
Average Salary: $30,229
Sewing machine operators work in garment factories. They sew fabric to create clothing. This job requires skill with machinery. Local textile companies are hiring sewing machine operators.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Fort Smith, AR?

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Army National Guard
Average Salary: $76,937
The Army National Guard offers a rewarding career with competitive pay. Members enjoy benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. They serve both locally and nationally, providing critical support.
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ABB
Average Salary: $71,404
ABB is a global leader in power and automation technologies. They offer a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development programs.
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Summit Utilities, Inc.
Average Salary: $70,919
Summit Utilities, Inc. provides essential services in energy and water management. They value their employees and offer competitive salaries along with a range of benefits. It's a stable career with growth potential.
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Mars
Average Salary: $64,074
Mars is a leading global manufacturer in the pet care, food, and candy industries. They offer a supportive work environment with opportunities for career advancement. Employees enjoy various benefits and a strong company culture.
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Encompass Health
Average Salary: $63,645
Encompass Health focuses on rehabilitation and recovery. They provide a caring and supportive environment for both employees and patients. Career opportunities include various roles in healthcare and support services.
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Walgreens
Average Salary: $60,201
Walgreens is a well-known pharmacy chain. They offer a variety of roles from pharmacy technicians to store management. Employees benefit from a comprehensive health plan and opportunities for advancement.
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Covington Court Health and Rehabilitation Center
Average Salary: $55,641
Covington Court provides skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They offer a supportive work environment with competitive pay. Employees enjoy a range of benefits and opportunities for professional growth.
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Walmart
Average Salary: $53,783
Walmart is a global retail giant. They offer a wide range of positions from store management to supply chain roles. Employees benefit from competitive pay and various benefits, including health insurance.
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Mercy
Average Salary: $51,881
Mercy is a healthcare provider offering a range of services. They focus on providing quality care and support to their employees. Career opportunities include various healthcare roles and administrative positions.
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Legacy Health and Rehabilitation
Average Salary: $50,008
Legacy Health and Rehabilitation offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They provide a supportive work environment with opportunities for career growth. Employees benefit from a range of benefits and a strong company culture.
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 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 seeking more affordable living conditions. Housing, in particular, is significantly cheaper, with an index of 70, representing a 30% reduction compared to the national average.
In addition to housing, other areas such as groceries and utilities also show a favorable comparison. Groceries in Fort Smith have an index of 92, which is 8% below the national average. Utilities are priced at 95, which is 5% below the average. This combination of lower costs in key areas makes Fort Smith a practical choice for individuals and families looking to manage their expenses more effectively.



