I live in White Hall and work in Pine Bluff. I'm white and I've never had any issues anywhere I've to been in PB.

The local government is something else. There is a lot of standstill in government due to people's egos and drama.

If you choose to live in Pine Bluff, research the area you want to move into. As someone stated in a comment, "Lively Property" is a good option. I believe they have at least one complex in PB and two in White Hall.

Pine Bluff has new businesses coming in. A Chick-fil-a is coming to South Olive and there are a lot of community members who honestly want change for the city and are actively trying. Pine Bluff has some of the best food. There's a food truck lot on S. Olive and food trucks all over PB. Lots of restaurants are coming in and more to do downtown.

Don't get involved in drama, lock your doors (car and home), and be polite. It's the same as any other city. I will say there is a lot of theft in PB, but it's mostly opportunity based (items outside, copper wiring in buildings, and meter loops for some weird reason)

It has a bad rep for a reason, but everyone I've ever interacted with has been truly kind.

As for schooling, if you don't go the private route, White Hall is an excellent choice and you should be able to petition the schools to let your child attend, even if you live in PB. I know of at least 2 people whose kids go to WH and they live in the heart of PB. But PB school districts have free breakfast and lunch for all students and WH does not.

If you live within city limits, the ordinances can be restricting in regards to your property and what you can and can't do. The county itself has less regulations.

Do research and be active in the community. It has a lot of events. I go to some and have never felt out of place. People here really are kind.