Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a city with a rich history and a growing population. Located in the southwestern part of the state, Fort Smith has been experiencing steady growth over the years, driven by its strong economy, diverse industry base, and high quality of life. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Fort Smith was approximately 88,007. This number represents a significant increase from the 2010 census, which recorded a population of 84,563. Understanding the demographic trends and population growth of Fort Smith is essential for policymakers, businesses, and individuals looking to invest or relocate to the area.
Population Growth Trends
Fort Smith has experienced a moderate growth rate over the past decade, with an average annual increase of 0.6%. This growth rate is slightly higher than the national average, indicating that the city is attracting new residents and businesses. The population growth of Fort Smith can be attributed to its strong economy, which is driven by industries such as healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. The city's proximity to the Arkansas-Oklahoma border also makes it an attractive location for businesses looking to expand into the southwestern United States.
| Year | Population | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 84,563 | — |
| 2015 | 86,233 | 0.4% |
| 2020 | 88,007 | 0.6% |
Demographic Trends
Fort Smith's demographic trends reveal a diverse population with a mix of age groups, ethnicities, and income levels. According to the 2020 United States Census, the median age in Fort Smith is 38.4 years, which is slightly lower than the national average. The city has a relatively high percentage of residents with a high school diploma or higher, with approximately 85% of the population holding a diploma or equivalent.
Economic Trends
Fort Smith's economy is driven by a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. The city is home to several major employers, including the Fort Smith Public Schools, Baptist Health, and the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. The city's economy is also supported by a growing number of small businesses and startups, which are attracted to the area's low cost of living and high quality of life.
| Industry | Employment Rate | Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | 15.6% | $55,000 |
| Education | 12.3% | $45,000 |
| Manufacturing | 10.5% | $50,000 |
| Tourism | 8.2% | $35,000 |
Key Points
- Fort Smith's population has grown steadily over the past decade, with an average annual increase of 0.6%.
- The city's economy is driven by a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism.
- The median age in Fort Smith is 38.4 years, which is slightly lower than the national average.
- The city has a relatively high percentage of residents with a high school diploma or higher, with approximately 85% of the population holding a diploma or equivalent.
- Fort Smith's low cost of living and high quality of life make it an attractive location for businesses and individuals looking to invest or relocate.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Fort Smith has experienced steady growth and economic development, the city still faces several challenges. One of the major challenges is the need to improve education and workforce development, particularly in emerging industries such as technology and renewable energy. Additionally, the city needs to address issues related to poverty and income inequality, which affect a significant portion of the population.
Despite these challenges, Fort Smith has several opportunities for growth and development. The city's proximity to the Arkansas-Oklahoma border makes it an attractive location for businesses looking to expand into the southwestern United States. Additionally, the city's growing economy and diverse industry base make it an attractive location for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
What is the population of Fort Smith, Arkansas?
+As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Fort Smith was approximately 88,007.
What is the median age in Fort Smith?
+The median age in Fort Smith is 38.4 years, which is slightly lower than the national average.
What are the major industries in Fort Smith?
+The major industries in Fort Smith include healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism.
In conclusion, Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a city with a growing population and a diverse economy. The city’s population has grown steadily over the past decade, driven by its strong economy, high quality of life, and diverse industry base. While the city still faces several challenges, it has several opportunities for growth and development, making it an attractive location for businesses and individuals looking to invest or relocate.