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Arkansas Renters Insurance
Last updated: 2026 · Data reflects current estimated industry averages.
Avg. Annual Premium
$196
Avg. Monthly
$16
Legally Required?
No*
Credit-Based Pricing
Allowed
Primary Risk
Tornado/Hail
Average Renters Insurance Cost in Arkansas
Renters in Arkansas pay an estimated $196 per year ($16/month) for a standard policy, based on 2026 industry average data.
Renters Insurance Rates by City in Arkansas
| City | Est. Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Little Rock | $205/yr |
| Fayetteville | $178/yr |
| Fort Smith | $184/yr |
What Makes Arkansas Renters Insurance Unique
Arkansas sits inside Tornado Alley's eastern edge, and severe convective storm claims (wind, hail) are the leading driver of the state's above-average premiums.
Risk Factors Specific to Arkansas
Underwriters in Arkansas weigh tornado, severe thunderstorm, and hail damage more heavily than in lower-risk states when pricing renters policies.
Renters Insurance Compared With Rent in Arkansas
The median gross rent in Arkansas was $982 a month in 2024 (U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey), 34% below the national median of $1,487. Against that, our estimated renters premium of $196 a year — about $16 a month — equals roughly 20% of one month’s rent for a full year of coverage, one of the ten highest share among the 50 states in our estimates.
The Coverage Detail That Matters Most in Arkansas
In Arkansas, windstorm and hail are covered perils on standard renters policies, so belongings damaged when a storm breaks windows or tears off part of the roof are covered, subject to your deductible. Additional living expenses pay for temporary housing while the landlord repairs the unit. The landlord’s policy covers the building, never your belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is renters insurance required in Arkansas?
No. No U.S. state, including Arkansas, legally requires tenants to carry renters insurance. That said, individual landlords and property management companies in Arkansas can — and often do — require proof of a policy as a lease condition, especially for larger apartment complexes.
How much does renters insurance cost in Arkansas?
Renters in Arkansas pay an estimated $196 per year ($16/month) for a standard policy, based on 2026 industry average data. Actual premiums vary based on coverage limits, deductible, credit history (where allowed), claims history, and the specific building or neighborhood.
Can insurers use your credit score to set renters insurance rates in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas allows insurers to factor in your credit-based insurance score when calculating renters insurance premiums, alongside coverage limits, claims history, and location. Renters with stronger credit typically qualify for lower rates from most carriers.
What's the biggest renters insurance risk factor in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, tornado and hail damage are the leading covered perils. Standard renters policies do cover wind and hail damage to personal belongings, so confirm your policy's coverage limits are high enough to replace electronics and furniture after a severe storm.
How much is renters insurance compared with rent in Arkansas?
With a median rent of $982 a month (2024) and an estimated premium of $196 a year, a full year of renters insurance in Arkansas costs roughly 20% of one month's rent.
Related Tools
- → Renters Insurance Calculator — Estimate your coverage needs and costs
- → Home Insurance Calculator — For homeowners comparing coverage
- → Umbrella Insurance Calculator — Extra liability protection beyond renters limits
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All Arkansas Insurance Guides
Compare requirements, average costs and state rules across every line of coverage in Arkansas.
*No U.S. state legally mandates renters insurance, though individual landlords may require it as a lease condition. The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and reflects estimated industry averages as of 2026. Insurance rates change periodically; always verify current pricing with a licensed insurance professional. City-level and statewide premiums shown are approximations — individual rates will vary based on personal factors.