Strong Foundations, Steady Growth
As we look back at the economic data shaping Conway through the first half of 2026, our community remains an exceptional engine of resilience. Navigating a shifting national landscape from a position of distinct strength, Conway’s key indicators point toward steady, localized momentum.
- A Leading Labor Force: Conway’s job market remains a cornerstone of our economic health. The local labor force stands strong at 38,625 participants, maintaining an exceptionally low unemployment rate of just 4.0% — comfortably outpacing both the Arkansas state average (4.4%) and the national benchmark (4.4%).
- Retail and Hospitality Surge: Consumer confidence is on full display. Year-to-date total retail sales have climbed to $661.21 million, a vibrant 5.02% increase over last year. This growth is heavily supported by the hospitality sector, with restaurant sales up 1.73% ($49.87 Million) and local hotel sales experiencing a remarkable 6.00% expansion ($3.13 Million).
- The Real Estate Premium: The housing market is experiencing fascinating dynamics driven by limited inventory. While total sales volume across Faulkner County rose 11.82% to $403.99 million, the number of homes sold inside Conway city limits dropped 13.81% (543 homes sold YTD vs. 630 last year). This tight supply has intensified competition, driving Conway’s median home price up by a substantial 14.94%.
- Steadying the Scale: Broader fiscal metrics show a healthy stabilization after a period of rapid expansion. Conway’s year-to-date total use tax pulled in $110.65 million (a minor 5.17% pullback against 2025’s historic baselines), while Faulkner County as a whole remained remarkably steady at $183.14 million, dipping a negligible 0.89%.
The Bottom Line
What do these numbers tell us? They confirm what we see every day at the bank: Conway is a thriving, forward-thinking community backed by a rock-solid economic foundation. We have a robust consumer base, highly competitive businesses, and a real estate market that continues to command a premium.
At Arvest Bank, we are proud to stand alongside the families, entrepreneurs, and leaders who drive this economy forward. The pulse of Conway is strong, and our future remains incredibly bright.
-Patrick Lewis, Community Bank President at Arvest Bank
Labor Force, February 2026
| U.S. | 170,483,000 |
| Arkansas | 1,454,561 |
| Faulkner County | 68,727* |
| Conway | 38,625* |
Unemployment Rate, February 2026
| U.S. | 4.7% |
| Arkansas | 4.4% |
| Faulkner County | 4.0%* |
| Conway | 4.0%* |
Total Sales in Conway, April 2026 (YTD)
| 2026 | $661.21 (+5.02%) |
| 2025 | $629.58 million |
Total Sales in Faulkner County, April 2026 (YTD)
| 2026 | $860.09 million (+4.84%) |
| 2025 | $820.39 million |
Total Use in Conway, April 2026 (YTD)
| 2026 | $110.65 million (-5.17%) |
| 2025 | $116.68 million |
Total Use in Faulkner County, April 2026 (YTD)
| 2026 | $183.14 million (-0.89%) |
| 2025 | $184.78 million |
Restaurant Sales in Conway, March 2026 (YTD)
| 2026 | $77.70 million (+7.00%) |
| 2025 | $72.60 million |
Hotel Receipts in Conway, March 2026 (YTD)
| 2026 | $5.13 million (+12.90%) |
| 2025 | $4.54 million |
Economy at a Glance Presenting Sponsor:
