History of Bella Vista, Arkansas
Bella Vista was a census-designated place located in Benton County, Arkansas. As of the United States Census 2000, the CDP had a total population of 16,582. It previously was the largest unincorporated community in the state of Arkansas; however, in November 2006 it voted to incorporate and form a municipality. The Bella Vista Property Owners Association estimates that there are currently 24,000 residents in the community, which covers about 65 square miles (168 km²). The village has two USPS ZIP codes: 72714 on the east side and 72715 on the west side.
First established in 1965, the community is located on U.S. Highway 71 between Bentonville, Arkansas and the Missouri state line. Although originally primarily an affluent retirement community, recent growth includes many young couples and families. It is "governed" by its Bella Vista Property Owners Association, a private organization that performs all the normal functions of a local government.
Oklahoma country music singer and songwriter Jeremy Castle relesaed a song entitled "A Little Bit Like Heaven" in 2004, which mentions and promotes the town of Bella Vista, Arkansas.