A Labor Market That Defies Trends

The most telling indicator of our local strength is our employment stability. While the national seasonally adjusted unemployment rate sits at 4.4%, Conway remains significantly lower at 3.7% non-seasonally adjusted. In Faulkner County, our civilian labor force has reached over 67,600 people. This tells me that our local businesses are not only hiring but are providing the kind of stability that keeps our neighbors working and our local economy humming.

The Power of the Local Consumer

Our retail and hospitality sectors continue to be the heartbeat of Conway. In January 2026, total sales in Conway reached $158.62 million, a nearly 4% increase over the previous year. Even more impressive is the surge in our restaurant scene, which saw a staggering 16.09% year-to-date sales increase, totaling $27.51 million. This is a clear signal of consumer confidence—people are choosing to spend their hard-earned dollars right here at home.

Real Estate: Quality Over Quantity

The real estate market in Faulkner County is showing a sophisticated shift. While the number of single-family home permits in Conway saw a seasonal dip in January, the value of our homes remains a point of strength. The median home price in Faulkner County has risen to $260,000, up nearly 8% from 2023. In Conway specifically, median prices have climbed to $277,000, representing a 14.94% increase over the same period. This appreciation reflects the high demand for the quality of life we offer.

Looking Ahead with Confidence

As a Certified Lease and Finance Professional (CLFP), I see these numbers as more than just statistics—they represent the dreams of entrepreneurs, the stability of families, and the bright future of the city I love.

At Arvest Bank, our focus is on meeting your short- and long-term financial needs so that these positive trends continue for generations to come. Our team of committed community bankers are always ready to talk about how we can build a stronger Conway together.

The data is precise: Conway’s momentum is real, and the best is yet to come.

-Patrick Lewis, Community Bank President at Arvest Bank

Labor Force, December 2025

U.S.	171,495,000
Arkansas	1,444,246
Faulkner County	67,628*
Conway	37,860*

Unemployment Rate, December 2025

U.S.	4.4%
Arkansas	4.2%
Faulkner County	3.7%*
Conway	3.7%*

Total Sales in Conway, January 2026 (YTD)

2026	$158.62 million (+3.99%)
2025	$152.54 million

Total Sales in Faulkner County, January 2026 (YTD)

2026	$209.08 million (+4.83%)
2025	$199.44 million

Restaurant Sales in Conway, January 2026 (YTD)

2026	$27.51 million (+16.09%)
2025	$23.69 million

Hotel Receipts in Conway, January 2026 (YTD)

2026	$1.31 million (-31.42%)
2025	$1.91 million

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