Fort Smith is the second largest city in Arkansas. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 80,268. It has long been a manufacturing center with major plants located in the city operated by Whirlpool Corporation, Rheem, Trane, Georgia-Pacific, Gerber, Planters Peanuts and many more. Several corporations also hold their headquarters at the area such as Baldor Electric Company, Arkansas Best Corporation, Golden Living and poultry company OK Foods.

The city was named by Forbes as having the lowest cost of living in the United States. It was also ranked number six in America for cost of doing business. The Fort Smith Regional Airport bathrooms were voted best public restrooms in 2005.