Arkansas Real GDP expanded at an annual rate of 2.1% in the first quarter of 2026. The U.S. growth rate was also 2.1% (revised upward from previous estimates).
A breakdown of the contributions to growth by sectors showed a notable contribution from the agricultural sector, consistent with the data in today’s personal income report. Manufacturing was also a strong contributor to Arkansas’ growth. Wholesale and Retail trade both showed declines for the quarter, as did Finance & Insurance.
Compared to the first quarter of 2025, Arkansas GDP was up by 1.8%, while the U.S. increase was 2.7%. If we remove the volatile agricultural component, Arkansas growth rate matches that of the U.S.
