Jacksonville, AR
- About the City
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transport
- Sport and Sporting Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Jacksonville, Arkansas is a city in Pulaski County with a population of 29,477. Located northeast of Little Rock, it has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city is home to Little Rock Air Force Base and offers museums, parks, and outdoor recreation.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: Jacksonville, Arkansas.
- Administrative Role: Jacksonville is a city in Pulaski County and a suburb of Little Rock . It is not a state capital or a county seat.
- Country and Region: The city is located in the state of Arkansas, USA. Arkansas is known as "The Natural State" for its beautiful landscapes, including mountains, caves, rivers, and hot springs.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Motto: The city's official motto is "Soaring Higher," a nod to its strong connection with the Little Rock Air Force Base .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Founding: The city is named after Nicholas Jackson, a landowner who deeded land for a railroad right-of-way in 1870. The community grew around the railroad depot .
- Incorporation: Jacksonville was officially incorporated as a city in 1941 .
- Age: The city is 155 years old (from its founding in 1870 to 2025).
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 34°52′23″N 92°06′55″W .
- General Location: Jacksonville is located in central Arkansas, approximately 15 miles northeast of Little Rock.
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 302 feet (92 meters) above sea level .
- Type of Settlement: Jacksonville is a suburban city and part of the Little Rock–North Little Rock–Conway Metropolitan Statistical Area .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Jacksonville's economy and identity are heavily tied to the presence of the Little Rock Air Force Base, which opened in 1955 and is a major employer and community cornerstone . The city also serves as a residential and commercial hub for the surrounding area. Key sectors include:
- Military: The air force base is the dominant economic force.
- Education: Served by the Jacksonville North Pulaski School District .
- Local Government and Services: As a suburban city, it provides administrative, retail, and service functions for its residents.
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Jacksonville was 29,477 .
- Size Classification: Jacksonville is considered a small city.
- Demographic Profile: The city has a diverse population. According to the 2020 census, the racial makeup was 43.23% White (non-Hispanic), 39.89% Black or African American, 7.4% Hispanic or Latino, and 1.84% Asian .
City's "Calling Card"
Jacksonville, Arkansas, is a close-knit suburban community with a proud military heritage, best known as the home of Little Rock Air Force Base. Visitors and residents alike appreciate its family-friendly atmosphere, local museums, and easy access to the amenities and attractions of the nearby state capital, Little Rock.
Geography
Jacksonville is situated in the plains of central Arkansas. While the city itself doesn't contain large mountains or canyons, it is close to various water bodies and the natural beauty of the region.
Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Streams)
- Bayou Meto: This bayou is a significant local waterway. The Bayou Meto Urban Canoe Trail offers a unique opportunity for paddling and wildlife viewing within the city limits .
- Arkansas River: Located about 12 miles south in Little Rock and North Little Rock, the Arkansas River is a major waterway. The North Shore River Walk and the expansive Arkansas River Trail, an 88-mile loop, provide scenic views and recreational opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling .
Parks and Recreational Areas
Jacksonville maintains numerous parks for community recreation, including Dupree Park, Fireman Park, Excell Park, Galloway Park, Johnson Park, Paradise Park, Northlake Park, and Stagecoach Park .
- Splash Zone: A local water park for family fun .
- Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation Shooting Sports Complex: A facility for shooting sports enthusiasts .
Nearby Natural and National Parks
- Riverfront Park (Little Rock): This 33-acre park along the Arkansas River in Little Rock features trails, an amphitheater, and a splash pad, and is a popular destination about 13 miles from Jacksonville .
- Emerald Park (North Little Rock): Located about 12 miles away, this park offers a trail with scenic views of the city and the Arkansas River .
Climate and Weather
Type of Climate and General Characteristics
Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate, classified as "Cfa" under the Köppen Climate Classification system. This climate is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters .
Average Temperatures
- Hottest Month: July, with an average high of 93°F (33.9°C) .
- Coldest Month: January, with an average low of 30°F (-1.1°C) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: Jacksonville receives an average of about 50 inches of rain per year, which is higher than the U.S. average of 38 inches .
- Snowfall: Average annual snowfall is approximately 4 inches, similar to the national average .
- Precipitation Days: The city averages 96 days per year with measurable precipitation .
Sunshine and UV Index
Jacksonville enjoys approximately 223 sunny days per year, which is more than the U.S. average of 205 days . The average UV index is 4.8, which is moderate but can be higher during the summer months .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures warm up nicely, with increasing rainfall. This is a beautiful time to see the region's flora in bloom.
- Summer (June-August): Summers are hot and humid. The hottest periods are typically in mid-June and mid-July . This is a good time for water-related activities at Splash Zone or nearby rivers and parks.
- Fall (September-November): Autumn brings milder, more comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the Arkansas River Trail .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are mild to cool. While cold spells can occur in early and late January, overall winter temperatures are often warmer than normal, with below-normal precipitation and snowfall . The coldest periods are usually in mid-December, early and late January, and early February .
The best times to visit Jacksonville are during the mild and pleasant weather of spring and fall.
Comparison with Other Cities
Compared to a city like Raleigh, North Carolina, Jacksonville gets slightly more rain (50 inches vs. 46 inches) and has a marginally higher average July high (93°F vs. 90°F) .
Landmarks and Attractions
[Jacksonville Museum of Military History]
- Full Name: Jacksonville Museum of Military History.
- Location: Jacksonville, AR.
- Description: This museum is a key attraction, preserving the rich military history of the area. It is housed in a building that includes the historic Arkansas Ordnance Plant (AOP) Guard House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The AOP was a critical facility for developing fuses and detonators during World War II . The museum honors the veterans and the heritage of the local military installations.
[Reed's Bridge Battlefield Heritage Park]
- Full Name: Reed's Bridge Battlefield Heritage Park.
- Location: Jacksonville, AR.
- Description: This park preserves the site of the Battle of Reed's Bridge, a Civil War skirmish fought on August 27, 1862. It offers visitors a chance to explore the battlefield, learn about the history through interpretive displays, and enjoy the natural setting .
[Arkansas Ordnance Plant Guard House]
- Full Name: Arkansas Ordnance Plant Guard House.
- Location: Jacksonville, AR.
- Description: As a surviving structure from the World War II-era Arkansas Ordnance Plant, the Guard House is a tangible link to Jacksonville's wartime past . Its preservation on the National Register of Historic Places highlights its architectural and historical significance.
[Jacksonville Guitar Center and Museum]
- Full Name: Jacksonville Guitar Center and Museum.
- Location: Jacksonville, AR.
- Description: For music lovers, this museum offers a unique collection of guitars and memorabilia, showcasing the history and artistry of the instrument .
Nearby Landmarks (within ~12-13 miles)
- Old State House (Little Rock): A National Historic Landmark built between 1833 and 1842 in the Greek Revival style .
- Arkansas State Capitol (Little Rock): Constructed between 1899 and 1911 in the Neoclassical style, its grounds feature monuments including the Little Rock Nine Civil Rights Memorial .
- William J. Clinton Presidential Library & Museum (Little Rock): The presidential library of the 42nd U.S. President, located about 15 miles away .
- MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History (Little Rock): Dedicated to Arkansas's military history from all eras .
Memorials and Symbolic Monuments
- Little Rock Nine Civil Rights Memorial: Located on the grounds of the Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock, this memorial honors the nine African American students who courageously integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957 .
Transport
Main Airports
Jacksonville and the surrounding region are served primarily by one major airport.
- Full Name: Clinton National Airport (also known as Adams Field)
- IATA Code: LIT
- ICAO Code: KLIT
- Distance from City: Located about 15 miles south of Jacksonville in Little Rock .
- Description: It is the primary commercial airport for central Arkansas, offering non-stop service to several major hubs across the United States.
Major Highways
- Interstate 440 (I-440): This interstate runs near Jacksonville, providing a direct connection to Little Rock and other parts of the metropolitan area.
- U.S. Route 67 (US 67): This highway is a key artery running through Jacksonville, linking it to Little Rock to the southwest and to cities like Cabot to the northeast.
- U.S. Route 167 (US 167): US 167 runs concurrently with US 67 through Jacksonville, offering additional regional connectivity.
Long-Distance Rail and Bus
- Rail: Jacksonville does not have passenger rail service. The nearest Amtrak station is in Little Rock, which serves the Texas Eagle line connecting Chicago to San Antonio and Los Angeles.
- Bus: Intercity bus services are likely available in Little Rock, which serves as a regional transportation hub. Local bus service is provided by the Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CATA), which connects Jacksonville to the wider metro area.
Local Public Transportation
- Bus Service: The area is served by Rock Region METRO (formerly Central Arkansas Transit), which operates bus routes connecting Jacksonville with North Little Rock and Little Rock.
Sport and Sporting Legends
Jacksonville, Arkansas, may be a smaller city, but it has a notable connection to the world of professional sports, particularly basketball, as the birthplace of several athletes who have competed at the highest levels.
Famous Athletes Born in Jacksonville
Jacksonville has produced a number of basketball players who have gone on to play in the NBA and top-flight leagues internationally.
Nick Smith, Jr. : Born on April 18, 2004, Nick Smith Jr. is the most prominent NBA player to come from Jacksonville. A standout at the University of Arkansas, he was a highly touted recruit and was selected as a lottery pick in the 2023 NBA draft. He currently plays as a guard for the Los Angeles Lakers . His rapid rise from Jacksonville to the NBA makes him a local sporting legend.
Tyree Appleby: A dynamic guard born on September 30, 1998, Tyree Appleby has built an impressive professional career. After playing college basketball for Cleveland State, Louisiana Tech, and Wake Forest, he now plays professionally for Mykonos in Greece .
Raheem Appleby: Also a Jacksonville native, Raheem Appleby (born April 16, 1993) played college ball at Louisiana Tech and went on to have a professional career, showcasing the basketball talent that has emerged from the city .
Demetrius Harris: Standing at 6'7", Demetrius Harris is another Jacksonville-born athlete who made it to the professional ranks. After playing college basketball at Milwaukee, he went on to have a career in the NBA .
The city has also been the starting point for many other collegiate and professional players across the country , highlighting its role as a small but significant contributor to Arkansas's basketball legacy.
Universities and Educational Institutions
While Jacksonville is home to local educational facilities, its proximity to the state capital, Little Rock, and the wider region provides residents with access to a range of higher education options.
Higher Education in Jacksonville
- Park University - Little Rock Campus Center: This campus is located right in Jacksonville at 1490 Vandenberg Blvd . It offers flexible degree programs for a variety of students, including those in the military and working adults. The center provides Bachelor of Science degrees with a focus on practical fields such as:
- Criminal Justice Administration (with concentrations in Corrections and Law Enforcement)
- Information and Computer Science (with concentrations in Computer Science, Information Technology, Networking and Security, and Software Development)
- Public Administration (with concentrations in Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, and Public Service) This makes it a key local resource for higher education and career advancement.
Higher Education in the Neighboring City of Little Rock and Beyond
As the largest city in the state, Little Rock offers a wide array of universities and colleges. For comprehensive information on these institutions, you can refer to the detailed guides for Little Rock.
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR): A comprehensive metropolitan university offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
- Philander Smith College: A historically black college (HBCU) with a rich history and a strong liberal arts curriculum.
- Arkansas Baptist College: Another HBCU located in Little Rock, focused on providing educational opportunities in a Christian environment.
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS): The state's only health sciences university, which includes colleges of medicine, pharmacy, nursing, and health professions, and is a major medical complex.
Major University in the Region (Jacksonville, Florida)
There is also a major university named "Jacksonville University," but it is located in Jacksonville, Florida. While it is not in Arkansas, its prominence means it often appears in searches related to the name "Jacksonville." It is a comprehensive private university with several notable colleges :
- Linda Berry Stein College of Arts & Sciences
- Davis College of Business & Technology
- Brooks Rehabilitation College of Healthcare Sciences
- College of Law
- Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at Jacksonville University: A unique partnership set to open a four-year medical school in 2026.
- Marine Science Research Institute (MSRI): A LEED-certified facility focused on the St. Johns River estuary and coastal ecosystems .
Healthcare and Medical Facilities
Jacksonville is strategically located near Central Arkansas's primary medical hub, providing its residents with access to world-class healthcare facilities just a short drive away.
Major Medical Centers in the Neighboring City of Little Rock
Little Rock is the premier destination for healthcare in Arkansas, home to several nationally recognized institutions. For detailed information on these facilities, please refer to the dedicated healthcare section for Little Rock.
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS): As the state's only academic health sciences university, UAMS is a leader in patient care, research, and education. It includes a hospital, multiple colleges, and institutes specializing in various fields.
- Arkansas Children's Hospital (ACH): One of the largest and most respected pediatric hospitals in the United States, ACH provides comprehensive care for children from across the state and region.
- CHI St. Vincent Infirmary: A large, private, not-for-profit hospital known for its heart and vascular care, orthopedics, and neurosciences, as well as its comprehensive network of clinics.
- Baptist Health Medical Center-Little Rock: The flagship hospital of the Baptist Health system, it is the state's largest non-profit healthcare system, offering a full spectrum of medical and surgical services.