5. Bella Vista, Arkansas: The Outdoor Enthusiast’s Hub

Bella Vista began as a resort and retirement community, but it has rapidly transformed into one of Northwest Arkansas’s fastest-growing towns. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, the town features multiple lakes, pristine golf courses, and miles of wooded walking and biking trails.

The median listing price in Bella Vista is roughly $400,000. While this represents a significant increase over the past decade, Bella Vista remains a bargain compared to similar recreation-heavy towns in Colorado or Utah.

Arkansas does not tax Social Security benefits, and property taxes remain historically low. Because large developers are currently investing heavily in the area’s infrastructure and amenities, buying into Bella Vista now ensures you get ahead of the next wave of price hikes.