Fayetteville housing faces pressure as U of A sees record enrollment

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Fayetteville’s housing market is feeling the pressure as enrollment at the University of Arkansas (U of A) hits a record high.

The university is now serving over 34,000 students. While the growth brings economic benefits to the area, it also presents new challenges for housing availability in the city.

“We love the university, but it is a mixed blessing, isn’t it?” said Mike Wiederkehr, Fayetteville City Council member for Ward 2, which includes the university campus. “They help drive the local culture and local economy, and at the same time, they drive and fuel demand for housing.”

Wiederkehr pointed out that with just 6,300 students living on campus, the vast majority — along with faculty and staff — are seeking housing in the local market. “There are 34,000 stude