Salaries in Fort Smith, AR
What is the average salary in Fort Smith, AR?
Fort Smith, AR, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average salary for jobs in this area is around $54,117. This figure provides a good benchmark for job seekers. Salaries can vary widely based on the industry and position.
Here are some common salary ranges for different job sectors in Fort Smith:
- Manufacturing: $24,000 to $129,273
- Healthcare: $41,545 to $146,818
- Retail: $18,220 to $76,636
- Education: $10,780 to $94,182
- Information Technology: $5,070 to $164,364
- Finance: $2,500 to $181,909
- Construction: $1,280 to $199,455
- Hospitality: $500 to $217,000
These figures show that Fort Smith has a diverse job market with many opportunities for growth and advancement.
What are the best paying jobs in Fort Smith, AR?

-
Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $135,564
Nurse Practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They work in hospitals and clinics, often collaborating with doctors. They diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and educate patients on health.
Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $109,774
Outside Sales Representatives sell products or services to businesses. They travel to meet clients and build relationships. They work for companies like automotive dealers, tech firms, and manufacturing businesses.
Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Counselor
Average Salary: $103,154
Counselors help people with personal, social, and career issues. They work in schools, hospitals, and private practices. They provide support and guidance to improve mental health. They often work with organizations like mental health clinics and educational institutions.
Find Counselor jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Regional Manager
Average Salary: $100,202
Regional Managers oversee business operations in a specific area. They coordinate between different branches and ensure goals are met. They work for companies in retail, hospitality, and manufacturing. They manage teams and handle budgets.
Find Regional Manager jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $98,366
Traveling Nurses work in various locations, providing care where needed. They often travel to different states or regions. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They adapt to new environments quickly and provide essential care.
Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $94,043
Speech Language Pathologists help people with communication and swallowing disorders. They work in schools, hospitals, and private practices. They create treatment plans and work with patients to improve their abilities. They often collaborate with educators and healthcare professionals.
Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $81,635
Occupational Therapists help people improve their ability to perform daily tasks. They work in hospitals, schools, and rehabilitation centers. They create personalized treatment plans and work with patients to regain independence. They often collaborate with doctors and other healthcare providers.
Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
CDL Driver
Average Salary: $80,549
CDL Drivers operate large vehicles to transport goods. They work for logistics companies, delivery services, and transportation firms. They follow safety regulations and ensure timely delivery. They often travel long distances and need to stay organized.
Find CDL Driver jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver
Average Salary: $76,551
Hazardous Materials Tanker Drivers transport dangerous materials. They work for chemical companies, oil firms, and transportation services. They follow strict safety protocols. They need to be highly responsible and aware of potential risks.
Find Hazardous Materials Tanker Driver jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Clinical Supervisor
Average Salary: $73,318
Clinical Supervisors oversee healthcare staff and operations. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They ensure staff follow protocols and provide quality care. They often work with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
Find Clinical Supervisor jobs in Fort Smith, AR
What are the best paying jobs in Fort Smith, AR without a degree?

-
Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $41,398
This role involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. Workers use tools to shape and level the concrete. Companies like local construction firms hire for these positions.
Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $34,257
Meat cutters slice and package meat products. They work in grocery stores and butcher shops. This job requires attention to detail and the ability to handle meat safely.
Find Meat Cutter jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $33,144
Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They handle staff, customer service, and inventory. Local eateries and chains offer these roles.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Server
Average Salary: $32,162
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks. They work in a fast-paced environment. Many restaurants and cafes are hiring for these positions.
Find Server jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $32,073
Groundskeepers maintain lawns and gardens. They perform tasks like mowing, trimming, and planting. Parks and private properties need these workers.
Find Groundskeeper jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $31,459
Housekeeping staff clean rooms and common areas. They ensure a tidy environment. Hotels and motels hire for these positions.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Server Assistant
Average Salary: $30,221
Server assistants help with food and drink service. They work alongside servers to ensure smooth operations. Restaurants and cafes offer these roles.
Find Server Assistant jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Sewing Machine Operator
Average Salary: $30,181
Operators run machines to sew fabric. They follow patterns and instructions. Garment factories and custom shops hire for these jobs.
Find Sewing Machine Operator jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Barista
Average Salary: $29,770
Baristas make coffee and other drinks. They work in coffee shops and cafes. This job requires customer service skills and attention to detail.
Find Barista jobs in Fort Smith, AR
-
Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $29,223
Kitchen team members assist in food preparation. They help cooks and chefs. Restaurants and eateries hire for these positions.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Fort Smith, AR
Which companies offer the top salaries in Fort Smith, AR?

-
Army National Guard
Average Salary: $77,542
Army National Guard offers a mix of civilian and military roles. It provides job security and benefits.
-
ABB
Average Salary: $71,099
ABB focuses on technology and innovation. It offers competitive salaries and career growth opportunities.
-
Dollar General
Average Salary: $69,699
Dollar General is a retail giant with many store positions. It provides a stable work environment and benefits.
-
Mars
Average Salary: $65,650
Mars is a leading food and pet care company. It offers a dynamic work environment and good compensation.
-
Summit Utilities, Inc.
Average Salary: $63,238
Summit Utilities, Inc. provides essential services. It offers job stability and competitive pay.
-
Encompass Health
Average Salary: $61,581
Encompass Health focuses on healthcare. It offers rewarding work and a supportive environment.
-
Walmart
Average Salary: $55,590
Walmart is a retail giant with many positions. It offers benefits and opportunities for advancement.
-
Baptist Health Arkansas
Average Salary: $54,853
Baptist Health Arkansas provides healthcare services. It offers a caring environment and good benefits.
-
Mercy
Average Salary: $53,450
Mercy offers healthcare services. It provides a supportive work environment and competitive pay.
-
Covington Court Health and Rehabilitation Center
Average Salary: $49,079
Covington Court Health and Rehabilitation Center provides healthcare services. It offers a caring environment and good benefits.
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 housing index in Fort Smith stands at 75, which is 25% below the national average of 100. This suggests that housing costs in Fort Smith are more affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on their living expenses. Additionally, the groceries index is 90, indicating that grocery prices are only 10% below the national average. This means that residents can expect to spend slightly less on food compared to the average American.
Utilities in Fort Smith are priced at 95, which is 5% below the national average. This small difference shows that utility costs are nearly on par with the rest of the country. For transportation, the index is 85, which is 15% lower than the national average. This suggests that commuting and other transportation-related expenses are more economical in Fort Smith. Healthcare costs, at 95, are also close to the national average, offering residents similar access to medical services without the higher costs seen in other areas. Overall, Fort Smith provides a cost of living that is beneficial for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle.