Welcome to Metro Little Rock: Conway
Nestled in the heart of Arkansas, Conway has emerged as a dynamic and rapidly expanding city, offering a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. As the second-largest city in the Little Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), Conway has been making waves with its impressive growth and commitment to quality of life.
For two consecutive years, Conway has held the title of Arkansas’ fastest-growing city. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the city’s appeal and the opportunities it offers to residents and businesses alike. In 2023, Conway’s population rose by 2.9%, reaching 69,580 residents. This growth rate ranked Conway as the 38th-fastest-growing city in the United States, showcasing its national significance.
Conway is also known as Arkansas’ “City of Colleges.” Three distinguished institutions of higher learning (University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College and Central Baptist College) call it home. The presence of these colleges not only contributes to a vibrant, youthful atmosphere but also ensures a steady influx of talent and innovation. In fact, more than 40% of Conway’s adults have a post-secondary degree, giving Conway an uncommon advantage in economic development. Faulkner County has added more than 3,000 jobs since 2021, now employing more than 50,000 people daily.
The city also boasts a robust $2 billion retail economy, providing ample shopping and dining options for residents and visitors. The Interstate 40 corridor offers all of the major chains and brands you would expect and a downtown full of locally-owned restaurants and boutiques is only a moment away.
Conway’s commitment to creating an exceptional living environment is evident in its numerous quality-of-place initiatives:
Public Art: The city’s streets are adorned with vibrant murals, adding color and character to the urban landscape.
Community Center: A state-of-the-art community center officially opened its doors in 2025, which features an indoor and outdoor pool, lazy river, fitness amenities, and pickleball court.
Trail System and Innovative Infrastructure: Conway boasts a comprehensive network of pedestrian and bike-only trails, encouraging an active lifestyle and connecting various parts of the city. Soon, the city will break ground on a new 15-mile $23 million greenway trail spanning the breadth of the city. With over 30 roundabouts, Conway has embraced modern traffic solutions and promoted cycling. In 2024, the city was awarded the League of American Bicyclists’ “Silver” designation, making it the most bike-friendly city in Central Arkansas.
Conway offers a unique proposition for those seeking a new home in Central Arkansas. With its strong economy, educational opportunities, and commitment to quality of life, Conway stands out as a city that’s not just growing in size, but in stature. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, Conway provides the perfect blend of opportunity, affordability, and community spirit. As the city continues to evolve and expand, now is the perfect time to become part of Conway’s success story.
Arts District
Downtown Conway is fast becoming a destination for public art. City murals, sculptures and interactive art can be found in many different spots. Another reason life is so full in Conway is the abundance of cultural delights to enjoy year-round. Conway residents and Arkansans from all across the state flock to see an assortment of performances at UCA’s Reynolds Performance Hall each season.
Hidden Gem
Longtime residents of Conway know of Pickles Gap, and newcomers may miss it unless they are looking for it. Right off of US-65, The Village @ Pickles Gap offers everything a shopper could want in one area. From a locally-owned coffee shop with seasonally-themed drinks and eccentric decorations to a spa, antique mall, vintage clothing store and more. This is one of Conway’s best-kept secrets, and new store fronts and plant nurseries are opening soon.
Faulkner County
Conway in May has outrageous food, rides, a 5K, concerts and more.
The city is well-spent in recreation, too. Outdoor activities have become even more popular here because of tremendous citywide sustainability efforts. It’s now one of the state’s greenest communities.
The city limits border Beaverfork Lake and Lake Conway, and the town is home to more than 10 parks that contain a vast array of picnic areas and pavilions, playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, hiking and biking trails and areas to swim and fish.
Making Headlines
UCA recently ranked 24th among “Top Public Schools” in the South, according to U.S. News & World Report. And Southern Living dubbed Conway seventh on its "South's Best College Towns" list.
Forbes previously ranked Conway third on its list of "Seven Places in the U.S. So Cheap You Can Afford to be an Entrepreneur.”
CBS News recognized Conway as one of the “10 Cheapest Places to Live in the U.S."
NerdWallet called Conway one of the "Best Small Cities for Working Parents."
Marketplace Grill