Correct you need to stay on outside of those metros. 15 mins outside of either is rural and very cost efficient. Yet still close enough to cruise into town for the amenities.
I met my wife 27 years ago when I was an Air Force recruiter stationed in Jacksonville Arkansas. We're in NW Georgia now and love it but she wants to go back to Arkansas to be closer to family.
I'd like to be in the Northwest area... maybe Fort Smith area, but live outside the city. I just applied yesterday for a position in Fort Smith/ Van Buren. We'll see!! I'll certainly be in touch if/when we move!
When I was a recruiter there, I recruited college grads to go to OTS. University of Arkansas was my bread and butter. My wife attended school there but didn't graduate.