HOT SPRINGS VILLAGE, Ark. – A delegation of Hot Springs Village (HSV) leaders proudly stood alongside Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on Monday, August 25, as she signed an official proclamation Arkansas as a premier relocation destination in the United States. The announcement highlights Arkansas's unique appeal, including its natural beauty, affordability, and quality of life.

The proclamation highlighted state and regional strengths that make Arkansas attractive to retirees and new residents:

· Affordability – U.S. News & World Report ranked Arkansas the No. 1 most affordable state in America, with a cost of living 14% below the national average, and housing 22% below the national average.

· Low Utility Costs – Utility rates are nearly 9% lower than the national average.

· Prime Location – Arkansas is within a one-day drive of 40% of the U.S. population.

· Pioneering Resident-Centric Communities – Hot Springs Village was recognized as a leader in the development of private, resident-focused communities, offering extensive recreational opportunities, including golf courses, trails, pickleball courts, and lakes.

· National Rankings – Allied Moving named Arkansas the No. 1 relocation state in 2024. Travel & Leisure ranked Hot Springs Village first among the nation’s most affordable communities for retirees.

The HSV Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) played a key role in the proclamation process, drafting language in partnership with local legislators before final adoption by the Governor. Paul Bridges, a GAC member, spearheaded the subcommittee responsible for research and drafting. Senator Matt McKee, Representative Richard McGrew, Representative Mary Bentley, and Representative Paul Childress were also instrumental in making the proclamation happen, working closely with the committee throughout the process to ensure its success.

Joining Governor Sanders for the signing were HSV Property Owners Association (POA) representatives Sales & Civic Affairs Manager Kevin Sexton, Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Keith Keck, General Manager Ken Unger, Director of Golf Gary Porter, Director of Marketing and Sales Lori Haight, and Board President Gary Belair.

“Hot Springs Village is proud to stand at the forefront of Arkansas’s story as a premier relocation destination,” said HSV POA Board President Gary Belair. “This proclamation not only celebrates our state’s strengths but also reaffirms the Village’s unique role as a nationally recognized community offering affordability, amenities, and quality of life.”

Hot Springs Village was established in 1970 by developer John A. Cooper Sr. and Cooper Communities, who transformed 20,000 acres of rugged land into a gated community modeled after Cooper’s earlier successes. Cooper Communities’ visionary approach and Mr. Cooper Sr.’s leadership helped set national standards for active, amenity-rich community living in Arkansas and across the country, combining affordability, active lifestyles, and stewardship of natural surroundings.

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About Hot Springs Village POA: The Hot Springs Village Property Owners Association (HSVPOA) manages the 26,000-acre gated community of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas. With over 16,000 residents, it is one of the largest gated communities in the U.S. The community is known for its nine golf courses, eleven lakes, 30 miles of trails, and year-round recreational activities. It offers a variety of housing options, including townhomes and waterfront retreats.