College Professor Salary in Arkansas
The median college professor salary in Arkansas is $70,459 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $83,880.
College Professor Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for college professor compensation. College Professor salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $70,459 per year, college professors in Arkansas earn $13,421 less than the national median of $83,880.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $70,459 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $83,880 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: college professors at the 10th percentile earn $37,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $141,120 — a $103,320 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $73,814.
Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for college professors across the country.
College Professor Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level college professor earns around $40,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $134,400 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $37,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $50,400 |
| Median (50th) | $70,459 |
| 75th Percentile | $100,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $141,120 |
College Professor Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for college professors in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a College Professor in Arkansas
Education
Most college professor positions require a doctoral degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows College Professors who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $63,941 over your career trajectory.
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