Sharum Neighborhood Overview
Overview
Sharum is a well-established, primarily residential neighborhood located in the northern section of West Memphis, Arkansas. Its character is defined by quiet, tree-lined streets, modest single-family homes, and a strong sense of community among long-term residents. The neighborhood is conveniently situated just a few miles from the bustling I-40 and I-55 interchange, providing direct connectivity to downtown Memphis, Tennessee, across the Mississippi River, while maintaining a more subdued, suburban atmosphere.
Historically, Sharum developed as a post-war residential area, with many homes dating from the 1950s through the 1970s, reflecting the city's growth during that era. It is named for a prominent local family, anchoring its identity in the city's history. The neighborhood's location offers a practical balance: it is removed from the major commercial corridors and industrial zones of West Memphis, yet remains within a short drive of essential services and the critical economic link to the Memphis metropolitan area.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Sharum consists predominantly of ranch-style homes, brick bungalows, and split-level houses on spacious lots, offering a classic Mid-South architectural feel. Properties typically feature two to four bedrooms, with many having undergone updates and renovations over the years. The neighborhood presents one of the more affordable homeownership opportunities in the region, with median home values significantly below those in comparable Memphis suburbs.
Ownership is the dominant model in Sharum, with a relatively low percentage of rental properties compared to other areas of West Memphis. The real estate market here is stable, attracting first-time homebuyers, working-class families, and retirees seeking a quiet, cost-effective place to live. Recent trends show a steady demand due to this affordability, though prices remain accessible, making it a practical entry point into the housing market.
Schools & Education
Sharum is served by the West Memphis School District. Students typically attend either Bragg, Faulk, or Richland Elementary Schools, with West Memphis Junior High and West Memphis High School as the upper-level institutions. The district offers a range of academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs, with the high school being a focal point for community pride and events.
While the district faces the challenges common to many urban and suburban public school systems, it provides the foundational educational framework for the neighborhood. For alternative options, some families may choose nearby charter schools or consider private institutions in West Memphis or across the river in Memphis. Proximity to the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith's West Memphis campus also offers accessible higher education and vocational training opportunities for residents.
Parks & Recreation
Recreational amenities in and near Sharum are community-oriented. Tilden Rodgers Park, a short drive away, is a major hub, featuring sports complexes, playgrounds, and the city's aquatic center. Within the neighborhood itself, smaller pocket parks and open spaces provide casual areas for children to play and neighbors to gather.
Outdoor activities are centered around family and team sports. The city maintains several baseball and softball fields, soccer fields, and walking paths in the larger park systems accessible from Sharum. For more extensive nature experiences, residents often travel to the nearby Mississippi River levees or cross into Tennessee to explore Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States.
Local Dining & Shopping
Sharum itself is primarily residential, so commercial amenities are found on nearby thoroughfares like Broadway Avenue and Missouri Street. Here, residents find a mix of classic Southern dining, local barbecue joints, and national fast-food chains. For grocery shopping, options include a regional supermarket like Edwards Food Giant, providing convenient access for weekly necessities.
Major retail and big-box shopping requires a short drive to the main commercial strips of West Memphis or, more commonly, a trip across the river to the vast retail options in Memphis. The neighborhood's value lies in its quiet separation from commercial noise, while still being a 10-15 minute drive from virtually any big-box store, major retailer, or restaurant chain found in the greater Memphis area.
Who Lives Here
Sharum is characterized by a stable, working-class and middle-income population. Many residents are long-term homeowners who have raised families in the neighborhood, contributing to a strong, familiar community vibe where neighbors know each other. The demographic skews towards families with school-aged children, as well as older residents who have aged in place, appreciating the neighborhood's consistency and affordability.
The area draws individuals and families who prioritize practicality, space, and a quiet living environment while needing easy access to employment centers in both West Memphis and Memphis. It appeals to those seeking the benefits of the Memphis metro area—including its job market, healthcare, and entertainment—without the higher cost of living or density. The community spirit is genuine, often centered around local schools, churches, and casual neighborhood interactions, making it a classic example of a close-knit, Southern suburban neighborhood.