Paragould AR

Paragould – Where small-town charm meets community spirit in the heart of Northeast Arkansas. Known for its warm hospitality, scenic parks, and a growing local economy, Paragould offers a peaceful yet vibrant lifestyle that’s perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone craving a slower pace with a strong sense of belonging. Whether you're strolling through the historic downtown, enjoying outdoor adventures at Crowley’s Ridge, or catching a local festival, Paragould invites you to experience genuine Southern comfort like nowhere else.

• Population: ~29,000
• Weather: Four-season climate; mild winters (low 30s°F), warm summers (high 80s°F), with spring and fall offering pleasant transitions.
• Places To Visit: Crowley’s Ridge State Park, Collins Theatre, Greene County Museum, Paragould War Memorial, Lake Frierson State Park.
• Top Activities: Fishing and kayaking, exploring hiking trails, attending downtown events and craft fairs, catching live performances at the local theater, supporting hometown sports teams.
• Famous Food: Down-home barbecue from Skinny J’s, Southern breakfasts at Huddle House, catfish platters at Ironhorse BBQ, and homemade pies from local bakeries.

Paragould, Arkansas continues to grow as a regional hub for manufacturing, healthcare, and education. With a relatively low cost of living and a supportive local economy, this small city offers stable career opportunities for workers across different skill levels. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in Paragould, making it a great place to build a career or start fresh.

Paragould, Arkansas, might be a small city, but it offers a surprising number of fun hangout spots for students looking to relax, connect with friends, or just take a breather from school life. Whether you’re into nature, food, or cool local hangouts, Paragould has something to offer.

Harmon Park – This local favorite is perfect for students who want to unplug and enjoy some outdoor time. With walking trails, picnic areas, and sports courts, it’s a great place to relax, read a book under a tree, or kick around a soccer ball with friends.

Greene County Public Library – Don’t let the “library” name fool you—it’s more than just books. With cozy reading corners, free Wi-Fi, and regular community events, it’s a quiet and chill spot to de-stress or get ahead on schoolwork in a peaceful setting.

Dixie Pig – For a fun food fix with local flair, grab a booth at the Dixie Pig. A beloved diner with classic barbecue and Southern comfort food, this place makes hanging out over lunch with friends feel like a tradition every student should know.

Loose Caboose – When it’s time for a sweet treat or a casual date, head to the Loose Caboose. It’s known for delicious ice cream, milkshakes, and laid-back vibes. Bonus: the retro feel makes for great Instagram pics.

Paragould Cinema – Sometimes you just need to escape into a movie, and Paragould Cinema is the go-to spot. Affordable tickets and buttery popcorn make this a fun outing without breaking the bank.

Francis Street Disc Golf Park – Want to try something different? Grab some discs and head to this free course. It’s a casually competitive way to hang out, walk off some stress, and pick up a hobby with friends.

Downtown Paragould – Lined with boutique shops, cafes, and music spots, downtown is the hidden gem for student hangouts. Whether you’re grabbing coffee from a local café or browsing through vintage stores, the vibe here is both chill and welcoming.

Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center – Just a short drive away, this spot is great for students who love nature or need a break from textbooks. With hiking trails, wildlife exhibits, and scenic views, it’s the perfect place to refresh your mind and body.

In Paragould, the hangout spots may be low-key, but that’s what makes them special. Here, you can unwind, have fun, and make real connections—no fuss, just good vibes.

Paragould, Arkansas, is a city known for its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to educational excellence. While it may be a smaller city, its location provides access to several reputable public and private colleges and universities that support a wide range of academic interests and career goals.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Paragould

Arkansas State University Paragould (ASU Paragould Center) – As a branch of Arkansas State University, this center offers diverse associate and bachelor’s degree programs, helping local students start or complete their higher education close to home.

Black River Technical College (Paragould Campus) – This campus specializes in practical, career-focused degrees and certificates, including nursing, business, and technical trades, to prepare students for successful careers in high-demand fields.

Arkansas Northeastern College ( nearby Blytheville, AR) – Serving the northeastern region of Arkansas, ANC is easily accessible to Paragould students and offers affordable education with programs in health sciences, engineering, and general studies.

Arkansas State University (Main Campus in Jonesboro, AR) – Just a short drive from Paragould, ASU Jonesboro is a comprehensive public research university with programs in business, education, engineering, agriculture, healthcare, and the arts.

University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) – While located a bit farther from Paragould, UACCB offers flexible learning options and popular transfer programs for students in the Paragould region aiming to advance their academic goals.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Paragould

Crowley’s Ridge College – Located in Paragould, this private Christian college is known for its nurturing campus environment and strong programs in education, business, ministry, and the liberal arts.

Williams Baptist University (Walnut Ridge, AR) – Just a short drive from Paragould, Williams Baptist is a faith-based institution that offers robust undergraduate programs in education, business, ministry, psychology, and the sciences.

Lyon College (Batesville, AR) – One of Arkansas’s most prestigious private liberal arts colleges, Lyon is known for its rigorous academics, close-knit community, and programs in sciences, humanities, and business.

Harding University (Searcy, AR) – With a reputation for academic excellence and a strong emphasis on values, Harding offers a dynamic range of undergraduate and graduate programs across many disciplines, including health sciences, business, and education.

John Brown University (Siloam Springs, AR) – Although farther from Paragould, JBU is often considered by local students thanks to its Christian values, hands-on academic programs, and leadership development opportunities.

Whether you’re seeking a local option or are willing to commute, Paragould is a supportive launching point for higher education. These schools offer a range of career pathways and learning environments, empowering you to take your next step with confidence.

Paragould, Arkansas, may be a small city, but it offers quality high school education through both public and private options. Whether you're looking for strong academics, great extracurriculars, or a supportive learning environment, this town has several schools that can help prepare students for college and beyond.

Here’s a look at the top public and private high schools in Paragould, AR.

Top Public High Schools in Paragould, AR

• Greene County Tech High School – Known for its dedicated faculty and a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Greene County Tech High School helps students grow academically while also encouraging active participation in sports and clubs.
• Paragould High School – Part of the Paragould School District, this high school is recognized for its strong commitment to academic achievement, career readiness programs, and inclusive student support services.
• Greene County Tech Junior High – While technically serving early high school grades, this school creates a solid foundation for upper-level learning through tailored instruction and student engagement.
• Oak Grove Middle School (Transition Program) – This school acts as a pathway into high school for many students in the area and is praised for its early college and career prep programs.
• Paragould Secondary Alternative School – Ideal for students who need a different learning approach, this school focuses on individualized support and small classroom sizes to help everyone thrive.

Top Private High Schools in Paragould, AR

• Crowley’s Ridge Academy – A Christian-based private school offering a college prep curriculum in a nurturing environment. Small class sizes and faith-centered values make it a top choice for many local families.
• St. Mary’s Catholic School (Upper Grades) – Though primarily known for its elementary and middle school programs, St. Mary’s has plans to offer upper-grade programs and is praised for academic excellence and religious formation.
• Paragould Christian Academy – Focused on integrating Biblical values with strong academics, this school supports students in faith and knowledge through certified teachers and individualized instruction.
• Ridgecrest School (Private Tutoring Program) – A specialized education setting, Ridgecrest uses tutoring and personalized academic programs for students who need alternative learning pathways outside of traditional classrooms.
• Home School Networks & Private Umbrellas – Although not a traditional private school, many families in Paragould use private umbrella programs for homeschooling, offering personalized curriculum options and support services to meet high school graduation requirements.

Education is a vital part of any community, and Paragould shows that even smaller cities can provide students with meaningful learning experiences. Whether you're leaning toward public school offerings or a faith-based private education, there’s a path here for every kind of learner.

Paragould, Arkansas, is a charming city known for its small-town spirit, welcoming community, and deep-rooted love of sports. Although Paragould does not currently host any major league professional sports teams, the town is passionate about athletics, and its residents closely follow regional and national teams. Additionally, the state of Arkansas has its own notable sporting attractions and deep connections to college-level athletics that foster a powerful sports culture.

Here’s a look into the professional and semi-professional sports landscape connected to Paragould and the broader Arkansas area:

Basketball – Arkansas Razorbacks (NCAA)

• Arkansas Razorbacks Men’s Basketball – Based in Fayetteville, the Razorbacks are the heart and soul of basketball fans across the state, including those in Paragould. The team won the NCAA Championship in 1994 and has made numerous tournament appearances under coaches like Nolan Richardson and Eric Musselman. Their fast-paced, high-pressure style keeps fans cheering throughout the season.
• Arkansas Razorbacks Women’s Basketball – The women's team has risen in prominence over the years, producing competitive seasons and showcasing talented players who often move on to professional leagues.

Baseball – Arkansas Travelers (MiLB)

• Arkansas Travelers – Located in Little Rock, about a 2.5-hour drive from Paragould, the Arkansas Travelers are a Double-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. Their games at Dickey-Stephens Park offer a family-friendly experience and are popular among baseball fans from all corners of the state.
• The Travelers have a long tradition of developing future MLB stars, making them one of the essential stops for fans tracking emerging big-league talent.

Football – No NFL Teams, but Razorback Pride Runs Deep

• While there are no NFL teams in Arkansas, college football reigns supreme. The Arkansas Razorbacks football team, known as the “Hogs,” competes in the SEC (Southeastern Conference), one of the most competitive leagues in college football.
• From tailgating to Saturday game traditions, communities like Paragould show unwavering support for the Razorbacks, turning game days into celebrations statewide.

Soccer – Little Rock Rangers (NPSL)

• Little Rock Rangers – Though not classified as a major professional team, the Rangers play in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), a competitive semi-professional league in the U.S. Playing out of War Memorial Stadium, the Rangers are fostering a growing soccer culture in Arkansas.
• With enthusiastic crowds and youth involvement, the team offers a great soccer experience and serves as an inspiring example for young athletes across regions like Paragould.

Hockey – Arkansas’ Semi-Pro Team Connections

• Arkansas GlacierCats & Arkansas RiverBlades – Though now defunct, these minor league hockey teams once competed in Little Rock during the late 1990s and early 2000s, igniting hockey interest in the area.
• While Arkansas doesn’t currently have an active pro hockey team, hockey enthusiasts in Paragould can catch NHL games on television and remain loyal fans of teams across the country, from the St. Louis Blues to the Nashville Predators.

Though Paragould may not house a major league franchise, its dedication to sports is unmistakable. Whether cheering on the Razorbacks, traveling to support minor league teams, or staying tuned to national sports action, the spirit of competition is alive and well in this corner of Arkansas. With growing interest in athletics and community sports programs, Paragould continues to build future athletes and passionate fans alike.

Paragould, Arkansas may be a small town, but it's bursting with charm, history, and unique little surprises that make it one of the most interesting places in the Natural State. Whether you're a local, planning a visit, or just love discovering new facts about hidden-gem cities, here are 10 fun tidbits about Paragould!

1. The Only One in the World – Paragould has the unique distinction of being the only city in the world with its name. It’s a blend of two railroad executives’ names — Paramore and Gould.
2. A Meteor Made Headlines – In 1930, Paragould was rocked by a rare cosmic event. A massive meteorite crashed near town and became one of the largest meteorites ever recovered in North America.
3. Historic Downtown Vibes – Downtown Paragould is full of restored 1900s architecture, giving visitors a charming throwback to the past with a mix of boutiques, local eats, and friendly smiles.
4. Stomping Ground for Early Rock 'n’ Roll – Long before he became a legend, Elvis Presley performed in Paragould in the 1950s. Locals still talk about the night the King came to town!
5. Welcome to Crowley’s Ridge – Paragould sits on Crowley’s Ridge, a geological formation that stands out from the surrounding flat Delta land, offering some rolling green and scenic views.
6. A Railroad Start – The city was founded in the 1880s thanks to the booming expansion of the railroads, making Paragould an important stop in northeast Arkansas commerce and travel.
7. Greene County’s Gem – Paragould is the largest city in Greene County and serves as its county seat, acting as the cultural and economic center of the area.
8. Lights, Camera, Paragould – The city’s historic appeal and small-town aesthetic have drawn attention from filmmakers. A few indie films and music videos have been shot right here!
9. Strong Sense of Community – With dozens of annual events like the Get Down Downtown Festival, Paragould knows how to bring people together and celebrate local life.
10. Green and Growing – Paragould has been recognized as a Tree City USA community, showing its commitment to nature and sustainability with tree planting and park beautification projects throughout the year.