Bentonville vs. Bella Vista (Gravette: housing, rent, jobs)

[mom-n-teacher]

I know this topic has been discussed before, but as a first time poster with some specific concerns, I am hoping you all can help me out.

My husband and I are both teachers and the parents of three children. I teach elementary and hubby is currently in middle school, but can also teach high school math. Our son is 13 and very active in sports (baseball and basketball). We have an 8 year old daughter, also active in sports and dance. Lastly, we have a toddler in need of a great daycare/preschool. We have a Boxer we like to do things with and would love to be outside enjoying much of the beauty of Arkansas.

Based on these factors, which city (Bentonville or Bella Vista) would be the best fit for us. My hubby feels strongly that Bella Vista is the right place. I am wondering if there are more activities for the kids in Bentonville and if living there might be closer to work for us. (We have not applied to specific schools for jobs yet, so any info on what schools are best would be appreciated, too.)

Thank you so much for your help.

P.S. We are yet another couple from Florida looking to escape some of the insanity and raise our children in a more wholesome environment.

[Megande]

Bella Vista doesn't have its own school system. Kids there either go to Gravette schools or the Bentonville school system. The Bentonville school system is excellent (my husband graduated from there and my sister-in-law taught there).

Bella Vista was originally a retirement community, and while a lot more families and young people are moving there, the median age is still 61. My in-laws lived in Bentonville for 8 years and Bella Vista for 1 and I personally thought that Bentonville had a much more "family friendly" feel. The two communities are very close, though, so you wouldn't have a problem living in one and commuting to the other (although traffic can be a nightmare).

[nmnita]

Originally Posted by Megande

Bella Vista doesn't have its own school system. Kids there either go to Gravette schools or the Bentonville school system. The Bentonville school system is excellent (my husband graduated from there and my sister-in-law taught there).

Bella Vista was originally a retirement community, and while a lot more families and young people are moving there, the median age is still 61. My in-laws lived in Bentonville for 8 years and Bella Vista for 1 and I personally thought that Bentonville had a much more "family friendly" feel. The two communities are very close, though, so you wouldn't have a problem living in one and commuting to the other (although traffic can be a nightmare).

you forgot to mention though, Bella Vista now has an elementary school and as I understand it will be putting in more schools. Yes, it is an area of older residents, but is rapidly changing. Because they are so close together it probably doesn't make a lot of difference. AS for the "family friendly" that too is changing. As the older citizens move into retirement living or pass away young families are taking over.

Nita

[nici]

My friend lived in Bella Vista for several years with her three kids. She loved the preschools, daycares, and schools. Bella Vista has somewhat more affordable housing, and is convenient to many places (including Bentonville). She now lives near Branson (which she enjoys as much) to be nearer her job.

[mom-n-teacher]

Thank you so much, Megande, Nita and Nici. Having your input is helping us to firm up our decision. Now, to just get jobs...