From the Delta to the Timberlands to the Ozark Mountains, Arkansas is an incredible place to live. Some are enchanted by the stunning scenery, others enjoy the four distinct seasons, and still others are fond of the convenience the state provides. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that a love of Arkansas runs deep in the hearts of those who call it home.

1 | The Great Outdoors
Outdoor enthusiasts couldn’t find a better spot to indulge their passion than Arkansas. Opportunities for fishing, hiking, hunting and golfing abound with almost 250 lakes and reservoirs, more than 200 golf courses and thousands of acres of state and national wildlife areas.

2 | The People
No matter where you live, you’ll never lack friendly neighbors who are the epitome of Southern hospitality.

3 | The Affordable Living
When you consider the total package of housing, taxes, utilities and daily living expenses, the cost of living in Arkansas is considerably lower than in most states.

4 | The Natural Beauty
Arkansas scenery can’t be beat. From high atop the Ozarks and the Ouachitas to the green vistas of the Delta and the dense forests of the Timberlands, it’s obvious why Arkansas is called The Natural State. The state boasts 52 state parks and seven national parks that offer hiking trails, lakeside camping, world-class fishing and mountaintop cabins.

5 | The Four Seasons
Spring paints roadsides and gardens with vibrant blooms, while autumn sets the forests ablaze with spectacular color. Winter is usually mild with an occasional snowfall, while summer days are long and lazy.

6 | The Location
Living in a state located in middle America has its advantages. Those who like to visit the big city are a few hours from Dallas, St. Louis and Memphis. And a trip to the beach isn’t hard to manage with the Gulf Coast just a day’s drive away.

7 | The Opportunities
Whether you’re looking for a paid job or a volunteer opportunity, Arkansas has much to offer. As Greater Little Rock, Northeast and Northwest Arkansas continue to grow, professionals are needed to fill positions in fields ranging from technology to retail. The state’s many nonprofit organizations also provide valuable services and need the skills of dedicated individuals.

8 | The Convenience
As one of the smallest states west of the Mississippi River, Arkansas offers laid-back charm – even in its larger cities. Compared with major cosmopolitan areas, traffic here is rarely a problem, and most destinations are close by and easily accessible.

9 | The Arts Scene
Fayetteville, Little Rock and Texarkana all regularly host the country’s most critically-acclaimed touring companies at their major theaters. The Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock is the nation’s premier repository for works on paper, and the new Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville houses an impressive collection of American art. Hot Springs is also home to a creative arts community, world-class galleries and studios.

10 | The Quality of Health Care
Arkansas boasts some of the nation’s finest health care facilities. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock is consistently listed in U.S. News & World Report’s annual edition of “America’s Best Hospitals.” Arkansas Children’s Hospital, also in Little Rock, is the only pediatric medical center in Arkansas and one of the largest in the United States serving kids from birth to age 21.

11 | The Optimistic Outlook
Arkansas’s capital city is one of the happiest metro areas in the U.S., says a recent Gallup poll released on BusinessInsider.com. According to the poll, a key factor to happiness is the local employment level, which saw a growth spurt and a low jobless rate in the final quarter of 2010.

12 | The Cuisine
Some of the nation’s best Southern food, like barbecue, crawfish and fried catfish, is found here, while noted chefs at many Arkansas restaurants are creating worldly dishes with Southern flair. And if you like to cook for yourself, it’s easy to get all kinds of locally-grown, farm-fresh foods anywhere in our agrarian state.