Whether you settle in the Delta, Ouachitas or Ozarks, in the River Valley or the Timberlands, or within the central hub of the state, Arkansas is an incredible place to live. Some residents 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 Natural Beauty Arkansas scenery can’t be beat. From high atop the Ozarks and the Ouachitas, from within the vastness of the Delta’s fields and the Timberlands’ forests, or from a more metropolitan perspective at the state’s center — it’s obvious why Arkansas is called The Natural State. The state boasts 52 state parks, seven national parks and many national wildlife areas. Plus, with four distinct seasons, the scenery awes Arkansans year-round. Spring paints the state 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. Take a peek at the stunning scenery from photographer Tim Ernst.

2. The People. No matter where you live, you’ll never lack friendly neighbors who are the epitome of Southern hospitality. Start making friends now; Meet six new Arkansans here.

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

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

5. The Convenience. Arkansas offers laidback charm — even in its larger cities. Compared with major cosmopolitan areas, traffic here is rarely a problem, and most destinations are nearby and easily accessible. Go for a joyride here.

6. The Recreational Riches. Hike, bike, swim, fish, geocache, camp, hunt or even dig for diamonds — the to-do list is as long as it is enjoyable here in Arkansas. No matter your interests, age or abilities, there’s something you’ll love doing in The Natural State’s great big playground. Golf more than 200 courses; run a marathon in Little Rock; climb to the top of Mount Nebo for views of the River Valley; fly fish in the Ozarks’ clear mountain waters; savor juicy Hope watermelons in the Timberlands; or hunt the rice fields of the Delta, a sportsman’s paradise during duck season. Find a must-do list of 20 unforgettable Arkansas adventures here.

7. The Opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a job or a rewarding volunteer opportunity, Arkansas has much to offer. As greater Little Rock, Texarkana, northeast and northwest Arkansas continue to grow, professionals are needed to fill positions in fields ranging from technology and agriculture to teaching and sales. Click here for a list of world-class colleges and universities for a new career or to quench your thirst for learning.

8. The Arts Scene. Fayetteville, Little Rock, Conway and Texarkana all regularly host famous acts and 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 notable American art in its 217,000-square-foot facility. Hot Springs and Eureka Springs, both of which were ranked among the top 25 arts towns by various arts publications, are also home to world-class galleries. Arts offerings are growing in El Dorado and Fort Smith too. Explore the arts at length here.

9. The Quality of Health Care. Arkansas boasts some of the country’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,” and is also a Level 1 Trauma Care Center. Several VA medical centers are located around the state. Click here to discover all the best hospitals in Arkansas.

10. The Cuisine. Some of the nation’s best Southern food – barbecue, pie, crawfish and fried catfish – is found here, while noted chefs at many Arkansas restaurants are creating worldly dishes with Southern flair. Natives also love the bounty of locally grown, farm-fresh foods from our agrarian state. Get a taste for Arkansas cuisine here.