Grocery Budget Calculators Arkansas

Arkansas Grocery Budget Calculator

Calculate grocery costs in Arkansas. Cost of living index 89, sales tax 6.5%. See monthly food budgets for individuals, couples, and families.

Use Calculator Free — No Sign-up Verified Data Editorially Reviewed Updated Feb 2026

Arkansas Quick Facts

4.4% Income Tax Rate

0.62% Property Tax Rate

$52,528 Median Income

89 Cost of Living

How This Calculator Works

Calculation methodology and assumptions

Grocery budget estimation for Arkansas using USDA food plan data adjusted for local cost of living. The USDA publishes four plan levels: Thrifty (~$615/mo for family of 4), Low-Cost (~$790), Moderate (~$1,100), and Liberal (~$1,390). These are scaled by Arkansas's cost of living index (89, where 100 = national average). Arkansas has a 6.5% sales tax rate — note that many states exempt or reduce tax on unprepared groceries. Restaurant costs are estimated at $16/meal average, adjusted for local prices.

Key State Information

Arkansas food cost context: Cost of living index 89 (below national average) | Sales tax 6.5% | Median household income $52,528 | Estimated moderate grocery budget for family of 4: ~$979/mo.

Standard financial formulas Pre-filled with real state data Estimates only — not financial advice

Data Source

USDA Food Plans, BLS

View Original Source | Verified 2024-12-01 | Updated annually

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I spend on groceries in Arkansas?

A moderate grocery budget for a family of 4 in Arkansas is approximately $979/month, based on USDA food plans adjusted for the state's cost of living index of 89. For an individual, expect $343-$441/month. Couples typically spend $587-$685/month.

Are groceries taxed in Arkansas?

Arkansas has a state sales tax rate of 6.5%. However, many states exempt unprepared groceries from sales tax or tax them at a reduced rate. Check Arkansas's specific grocery tax rules — prepared foods from delis and restaurants are typically taxed at the full rate.