Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a city located in Sebastian County in the northwestern part of the state. With a land area of 61.70 square miles (159.78 square kilometers), it is the second-largest city in Arkansas after Little Rock. Fort Smith is also the county seat of Sebastian County.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the estimated population of Fort Smith as of 2021 is approximately 88,000 people. This makes it the second-largest city in the state after Little Rock. Fort Smith has a diverse population with a mix of different races, ethnicities, and cultures. As of the latest Census data, the population demographics of Fort Smith are 61.3% White, 18.3% Hispanic or Latino, 11.7% Black or African American, 1.9% Asian, and 7% other races.
The city’s economy is powered by a variety of industries, including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. The city’s GDP is estimated to be around $8.1 billion. The county median household income is around $52,000, and the poverty rate is around 18%.
Some of the largest employers in the city include Mercy Hospital, Baldor Electric Company, and the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith. These employers provide a significant number of jobs and opportunities for residents of the city and surrounding areas.
Fort Smith is home to several famous attractions, including the Fort Smith National Historic Site, which preserves the history of the city’s frontier days, and the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, which showcases works of art from local and national artists. The city also has several parks and outdoor recreational areas, including the Janet Huckabee Arkansas River Valley Nature Center and the Creekmore Park and Family Aquatic Center.
Fort Smith is also home to several institutions of higher learning, including the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, a public university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Other notable institutions in the city include the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, a private medical school, and the Fort Smith School of Massage Therapy.
In conclusion, Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a diverse and vibrant city with a rich history and a strong economy. Its location in the northwestern part of the state makes it an important center of commerce and culture, with a range of attractions and institutions that draw visitors and residents alike.