God blessed Arkansas with the best of everything! You don't have to go very far to find what you want or need in the Natural State. We have everything we need right here, and we're pretty proud of it. There are a lot of reasons to be thankful for living in this great state of ours, and it can't be stated enough: Arkansas is truly a wonderful place to grow up, raise your family and even retire so you can enjoy the rest of your days surrounded by natural beauty.

12. Great educational opportunities

Arkansas was once nicknamed the "Land of Opportunity" and it's not just because you can hit it big by discovering a diamond. Education is one of the most valuable things you can attain, and there are a huge number of post-secondary institutions and a variety of trade schools where people can further their learning.

11. Main Street revitalizations

There's something good happening on the Main Streets in Arkansas towns. Thanks to the efforts of Arkansas organizers, downtown areas are opening up again with new shops and restaurants.

10. Great shopping spots

Sure, you can go to the mall to get whatever you need, but die-hard shoppers know that it's all about the bargain and finding the perfect item. Arkansas has a number of unique shops and boutiques where you'll be happily surprised at what you can find at a great price.

9. Excellent festivals

Arkansas's social calendar is always full! No matter what time of year it is, there's always a festival or event going on somewhere in the Natural State. What's so great about them? There's never a dull moment at these festivals, and people of all ages can participate.

8. Friendly people

If you've had a bad experience with an Arkansan, you were speaking to one unusually unhappy person. Generally the people you meet from Arkansas are so memorable because they're so friendly and well-mannered!

7. Driving's fun

The feeling of freedom you get when driving on a beautiful day in Arkansas is amazing. We're a state full of gorgeous scenery and roads just made for a nice day drive out in the country.

6. Family values

This proud Razorback mama knows what's up! Many Arkansans have strong family bonds that never weaken, even with distance. This is a great state to put down roots.

5. Opportunities for work

The unemployment rate in Arkansas is at the lowest point it's been in nearly eight years! There's a job for you here in Arkansas whenever you're ready to take it.

4. Scenic state parks

Arkansas's state parks are the absolute best. Whether you just like to enjoy the view or you're the active type, the state parks here accommodate visitors incredibly well.

3. Awesome food and restaurants

Yeah, yeah, we're the highest ranked state on the various "oh no, America is obese" lists. So what? That speaks to how amazing the food is in Arkansas. There's at least one awesome cook in every family here. There's at least one great restaurant in nearly every town. We like to eat, and thank God the food is good!

2. Strong sense of culture

Arkansas history and its storied past are never far from the mind of Natural State residents. Culture is preserved very well here, and we love the hard work put into exhibits and events that celebrate the Arkansas way of life (past and present).

1. Low cost of living

It's almost frightening to look at the cost of a 2-bedroom apartment in California or New York, and food prices in the "big city" states are just as cringe-inducing. Thank Heaven it's cheap to live in Arkansas! It's kinda fun when you can brag to your big city pals about how much you don't have to pay for rent, gas, or food.

Now it's your turn to sound off, Arkansas. Let's tell everyone why we're so awesome. America should be absolutely thankful to have Arkansas. With as much as this state has given to the world (and yes, that includes politics), out-of-towners should get it by now. There's a lot more to the Natural State than many people know!