Bella Vista is a city in Benton County, Arkansas. During and prior to the 2000 census, Bella Vista was a census-designated place (CDP), with a total population of 16,582 in 2000. 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 town has two USPS ZIP codes: 72714 on the east side and 72715 on the west side. It is part of the Fayetteville–Springdale–Rogers, AR-MO Metropolitan Statistical Area. First established in 1965, the village is located on U.S. Route 71 at the end of Interstate 540 between Bentonville and the Missouri state line. Although originally primarily an affluent retirement community, recent growth includes many young couples and families. Prior to incorporation, Bella Vista was "governed" by its Property Owners Association, a private organization performing all the normal functions of a local government.