Red state city EXPLODES in population... thanks to bizarre link to Walmart
Rogers, Arkansas, once a quiet Southern town known only for being the site of the first-ever Walmart store, is undergoing a major transformation with a population boom turning it into one of the fastest-growing cities in America.
Located in Benton County, Rogers has seen a rapid influx of new residents.
The US Census Bureau ranked the Northwest Arkansas area as the 22nd fastest-growing metro in the nation.
The population jumped from 591,895 people in 2023 to 605,615 in 2024 - with people lured by affordable real estate, strong schools, scenic parks and a thriving job market.
It all started when the first-ever Walmart opened its doors on July 2, 1962 in Rogers – then called Wal-Mart Discount City.
Though that original store closed long ago, the company's footprint and influence remains strong in the region.
Its corporate headquarters is located nearby in Bentonville and continues to shape the local economy and housing market.
Mayor Greg Hines told Daily Mail the city is growing for all the right reasons.
'Rogers is seeing steady growth as more people choose to live and work here,' he said.
'They're drawn by job opportunities, strong schools, and access to parks and trails.'
The first Walmart store opened here in 1962, and that moment 'shaped the direction of the city', he explained.
'It helped attract other businesses and laid the groundwork for long-term economic growth.'
Today, new residents include remote workers, young families, and retirees, drawn to the mix of quaint neighborhoods, new developments and a lower cost of living than many coastal cities.
'Today, sectors like healthcare, retail, and manufacturing are driving the local economy,' he told Daily Mail.
'We're focused on planning for the future, investing in infrastructure, and quality of life initiatives to support a growing population and make sure Rogers stays a good place to live and work.'
The historic downtown district of Rogers, Arkansas, is seen above
Demographically, Rogers has grown more diverse in recent years.
Census data shows the Hispanic population has surged, making up over 30 percent of the city's population.
The area also attracts a growing number of college-educated professionals and families looking for quality of life and career mobility.
The market has something for everyone – from historic fixer-uppers under $200K, to custom lakefront mansions topping $2 million, to quaint vintage style mid-century homes.
A listing for a 4-bed, 3-bath modern farmhouse with a wraparound porch and mountain views priced at less than $400K - a steal compared to what it would cost in other more pricey states.
The current Walmart store in Rogers which is located a few blocks from the original site, still draws in daily shoppers.
Today the company operates over 3,000 stores across the US and 1,607 abroad.
Walmart did not respond to a request for comment.
The museum displays vintage photos, storefront recreations and shows how the once-sleepy railroad town became a booming retail hub (main street stores in Rogers, Arkansas)
The Rogers Historical Museum is located just blocks from the site of the original Walmart and offers a glimpse into the city's transformation.
The museum displays vintage photos, storefront recreations and shows how the once-sleepy railroad town became a booming retail hub.
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