The largest city in Arkansas coaxes talent and investment with aggressive tax breaks and some of the most affordable housing among state capitals. In fact, Little Rock ranks an impressive #15 for Housing Affordability and #18 in our Poverty Rate subcategory. Situated on the banks of the state’s namesake river, the city is distinguished by a powerful and diverse corporate presence, proof that local officials have sharpened their pencils on the economic development front. Dillard’s Department Stores, Windstream Communications and Stephens Inc. are just a few of the corporations headquartered in a city that has in the past suffered from an undeserved reputation as the capital of an underdeveloped state known mostly for the Ozark Mountains (and Bill Clinton). And today’s Little Rock is also an increasingly coveted hometown, with great weather, cultural investment and green spaces (ranked #34). Surprises like the ESSE Purse Museum & Store showcase the city’s subdued irreverence—which pairs well with the William J. Clinton Library & Museum and the newly revitalized Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. Together, they earn The Rock its #59 rank for Museums.