The Little Rock area has a lot to offer.
Anika C. Dixon
Principal Broker and Managing Owner, Goss Management & Realty
Resides in Little Rock
Describe Little Rock and Central Arkansas in your own words. As a proud graduate of the Little Rock School District, this community gave me the foundation I needed to dream big and build a meaningful life. It’s where I grew up, where I learned and where I continue to grow. Central Arkansas has been more than just a backdrop — it’s been a constant source of support, inspiration and connection. This is a place where opportunity and heart go hand in hand — and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
What sets Little Rock apart from other cities? The opportunities for growth are a true treasure that make this area such a gem.
Favorite places to visit in Central Arkansas? The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, The Arkansas Repertory Theatre, The Big Dam Bridge and all of the wonderful African American owned restaurants and food trucks.
Favorite Little Rock restaurant(s)? Certified Pies, Southern Heaux, Little Greek Fresh Grill
Why should someone consider moving to Little Rock/Central Arkansas? Whether you’re starting a career, raising a family or launching a business, Central Arkansas provides room to grow and a welcoming community that makes you feel right at home. From the scenic trails and rivers to a vibrant cultural scene and affordable living, it’s the kind of place where life feels balanced and that’s where I’ve wanted to call home for over four decades.
Sarah Long
Owner and Chief Operating Officer, Top Notch Heating & Air LLC
Resides in Conway
How long have you lived in Central Arkansas? Forever. Tried to run off twice thinking the grass was greener somewhere else. Spoiler: It wasn’t. This is home.
Favorite part of living in Central Arkansas? The mix of it all. I love the changing seasons, afternoons at the Museum of Discovery or the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts and the diversity that makes the community feel alive. I love the friendly smiles you get just walking down the street. And of course, the food: Café Bossa Nova in Hillcrest, Local Lime at the Promenade and BCW in SoMa are always at the top of my list.
What sets Little Rock apart from other cities? Little Rock doesn’t try to be anyone else. We have museums and music, food worth bragging about, trails and rivers in our backyard and we still smile at strangers. Not many cities can say that.
Favorite Little Rock restaurant? My favorite date night spot is upstairs at The Pantry Crest. The mood and
lighting always make it such an enjoyable place to be.
Why should someone consider moving to Little Rock/Central Arkansas? You get city life with culture, food and opportunity, but you’re always minutes away from rivers, trails and fresh air.
Payton Smith
Chief Operating Officer, Metro Disaster Specialists
Resides in North Little Rock
How would you describe Central Arkansas? Little Rock feels like a big, small town, with an incredibly loyal business community. It’s a wonderful place to build a career, grow a business and raise a family.
Favorite part of living in Central Arkansas? I love being positioned in the heart of the state. I’m just an hour away from the lake, my duck club and my deer camp, and only about two and a half hours from Fayetteville. Everything I enjoy is close by.
Why should someone consider moving to Central Arkansas? We have a unique culture and a deeply loyal business community. It’s an environment where people support one another, and relationships truly matter.
When did you fall in love with Central Arkansas? After college, when I began working full-time, I truly immersed myself in networking and building relationships. … Investing in relationships is what made me fall in love with this community.
How has Central Arkansas shaped you? Being from Central Arkansas has shaped me into the professional I am today and has allowed me to positively impact others every day. I’m grateful for the experiences, relationships and opportunities this community has offered through business, marketing and networking. And I’m blessed that our company can serve people during some of their most vulnerable moments in life.
Chris Tanner
President, Tanner Hospitality Group
Resides in Little Rock
How would you describe Central Arkansas? Central Arkansas has a lot to offer. I love that we can access different parts of the state easily. We have great performing arts, music and dining, plus access to lots of outdoor activities. We are also in the center of the United States and can travel around the country with ease.
Favorite part of living in Little Rock? It’s really easy to move around compared to other cities.
What sets Little Rock apart from other cities? We’ve got a much lower cost of living.
Favorite places to visit in Central Arkansas?I love the Big Dam Bridge, Pinnacle Mountain and lots of restaurants and music venues.
Favorite Little Rock restaurant and your go-to order there? Ristorante Capeo – I always get the chicken piccata and Caesar salad.
Why do you think someone should consider moving to Central Arkansas? We have a small town feel and low cost of living.
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