Is Benton Safe, Pros and cons of living in Benton

Benton, Arkansas, offers a blend of suburban comfort and economic opportunity, making it an appealing location for many. The city is known for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to national averages, with housing and utility prices being notably lower (as reported by Payscale). This affordability extends to transportation and grocery costs as well, contributing to a lower overall cost of living that is about 15% less than the national average (as reported by Payscale).

The job market in Benton is supported by a diverse range of employers, with key industries including healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Major employers such as Saline Memorial Hospital and Walmart contribute significantly to the local economy, providing numerous employment opportunities for residents. The unemployment rate in Benton County remains competitive, reflecting a stable job market for those seeking employment within the region (as reported by Data Commons).

Is it Safe to Live in Benton?

Benton, Arkansas, presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that warrant consideration. The overall crime rate in Benton is reported at 29.57 per 1,000 residents annually (as reported by various sources). This figure suggests that while many residents feel safe, there are indeed safety concerns for a portion of the population (as reported by Niche).

When examining specific crime statistics, violent crime rates in Benton are noted to be higher than the national average for assault, though lower for murder and rape (as reported by Niche). Property crime statistics also show varied trends, with burglary rates below the national average, but theft and motor vehicle theft rates being points of concern (as reported by Niche and FBI crime data). Residents often consider the eastern parts of the city to be the safest, with a varying chance of being a victim of crime depending on the neighborhood (as reported by various sources).

Housing Costs and Trends

The housing market in Benton, Arkansas, is characterized by affordability and steady demand. The median home value in Benton is approximately $239,101, showing a slight increase over the past year (as reported by Zillow). This median value indicates that Benton offers a more accessible entry point into homeownership compared to many other areas across the country.

Rental prices in Benton are also generally more affordable than the national average. The median rent for an apartment is around $1,380 per month, with variations depending on the number of bedrooms (as reported by Zumper and Apartments.com). For instance, a one-bedroom apartment averages about $856 per month, while a two-bedroom unit is closer to $1,380 (as reported by Apartments.com). This relative affordability in both buying and renting makes Benton an attractive option for individuals and families managing their budgets.

Home Prices

The average home value in Benton, AR, stands at approximately $239,101 as of March 2026 (as reported by Zillow). This figure represents a 2.3% increase over the previous year, indicating a stable and appreciating housing market. Homes typically go under contract in about 42 days, suggesting a healthy pace of sales (as reported by Zillow).

The median list price for homes in Benton was $296,800 in March 2026 (as reported by Zillow). This median list price is higher than the average home value, which is common as it reflects asking prices rather than final sale prices. The market is described as balanced, meaning supply and demand for homes are relatively equal (as reported by Zillow).

Rental Affordability

Renting in Benton, AR, is generally more affordable than the national average. The average rent across all bedroom counts and property types is approximately $1,380 per month, which is about 29% lower than the national average (as reported by Zumper). This affordability is a significant draw for individuals and families looking to minimize housing expenses.

For specific unit types, a studio apartment might cost around $856 per month, a one-bedroom apartment averages about $800, and a two-bedroom apartment can be expected to rent for approximately $1,380 (as reported by Apartments.com). These figures highlight the accessible rental market in Benton, making it a feasible option for a wide range of income levels.

Job Market and Major Employers

Benton, Arkansas, boasts a robust job market with a variety of major employers contributing to its economic landscape. The unemployment rate in Benton County has been noted at 3.5% as of February 2026 (as reported by Data Commons), which is competitive and indicates a healthy employment environment. This rate is lower than the long-term average for the county, suggesting positive employment trends (as reported by YCharts).

Key industries in Benton include healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Prominent employers such as Walmart, J.B. Hunt, and Tyson Foods are significant contributors to job creation in the region (as reported by Greater Gravette Chamber of Commerce). Saline Memorial Hospital is another major employer, providing essential healthcare services and numerous job opportunities within the medical field (as reported by Zippia).

Key Industries

The economic foundation of Benton, AR, is built upon several key industries that drive employment and growth. Healthcare is a significant sector, with Saline Memorial Hospital being a primary employer (as reported by Zippia). This sector offers a wide range of career paths, from direct patient care to administrative and support roles.

Retail and manufacturing also play crucial roles in Benton’s job market. Companies like Walmart, a global retail giant headquartered in nearby Bentonville, have a substantial presence and impact on local employment (as reported by Indeed.com). Additionally, manufacturing firms contribute to the industrial base, offering diverse job opportunities.

Average Salary and Income

The average annual salary in Benton, Arkansas, is approximately $43,879 as of April 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). This figure translates to roughly $21.10 per hour, providing a benchmark for earning potential within the city. The median household income in Benton was reported at $72,876 in 2024, indicating a solid income level for families (as reported by Data Commons).

Salaries can vary based on occupation, experience, and industry. For instance, top-paying jobs in Benton may include specialized roles in healthcare or technical fields (as reported by ZipRecruiter). The median individual income was $43,632 in 2024 (as reported by Data Commons), further illustrating the economic standing of residents.

Climate and Environment

Benton, Arkansas, experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons, with hot, muggy summers and cold, wet winters. The temperature typically ranges from a low of 34°F in January to a high of 93°F in July (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). This seasonal variation influences daily life and outdoor activities throughout the year.

Precipitation is a notable feature of Benton’s climate, with a wetter season extending from March to July. The month of May typically sees the most wet days, averaging around 11.9 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). This pattern of rainfall is crucial for the region’s agriculture and natural environment.

Temperature Ranges

The temperature in Benton, AR, exhibits significant seasonal fluctuations. Summers are hot, with average high temperatures reaching around 92°F in July, while lows are around 73°F (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). The hot season typically lasts from late May through mid-September.

Conversely, winters are cold, with average daily high temperatures remaining below 59°F from late November to late February. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 34°F and highs near 51°F (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). This temperature range defines the climate experienced by residents throughout the year.

Rainfall Patterns

Benton experiences a predictable rainfall pattern throughout the year, influenced by its humid subtropical climate. The period from March 19 to July 30 is considered the wetter season, with a greater than 31% chance of a wet day (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). May is typically the wettest month, averaging over 11 days with measurable precipitation.

The drier season spans from late July to mid-March, with January having the fewest wet days, averaging about 7.2 days (as reported by NASA’s MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis). This distribution of rainfall is essential for maintaining the local ecosystem and supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Education and School Ratings

Benton, Arkansas, is served by the Benton School District, which has earned a commendable “A” rating from the Arkansas Department of Education (as reported by Benton School District). This rating signifies a high level of academic achievement and school quality across the district. The district serves approximately 5,763 students from Kindergarten through 12th grade, maintaining a student-teacher ratio of 16:1 (as reported by Niche).

The district’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its academic performance, with a significant percentage of students demonstrating proficiency in state tests. While 42% of students are proficient in math and 38% in reading according to state test scores (as reported by Niche), the overall “A” rating suggests a strong educational environment. This focus on education makes Benton an attractive option for families prioritizing schooling for their children.

School District Performance

The Benton School District has been recognized with an “A” rating by the Arkansas Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (as reported by Benton School District). This achievement places it among the top-performing districts in the state, with only 8% of schools statewide earning a similar distinction. The rating is based on multiple factors, including student achievement, growth, and readiness for future endeavors.

The district’s success is attributed to the dedication of its teachers, staff, students, and families. This collaborative culture fosters an environment of innovation and excellence, ensuring that students are well-prepared for college, career, and military service (as reported by Benton School District). The district’s commitment to individual student needs further enhances its educational standing.

Student Achievement

Student achievement within the Benton School District is a key indicator of its educational effectiveness. State test scores reveal that 42% of students are proficient in mathematics and 38% are proficient in reading (as reported by Niche). While these figures provide a snapshot of academic performance, the district’s overall “A” rating suggests a broader success in fostering learning and development.

The district emphasizes providing every child with the tools and opportunities to thrive, both academically and beyond the classroom. This dedication to student success contributes to the positive educational reputation of Benton (as reported by Benton School District).

Demographics and Population

Benton, Arkansas, is a growing city with a population of approximately 39,571 as of 2026 (as reported by Point2Homes). The city has experienced a population increase of 12.67% since the most recent census in 2020, indicating a steady growth rate of 1.91% annually (as reported by Point2Homes). This expansion suggests an increasing appeal for residents seeking a place to live in the region.

The demographic makeup of Benton is predominantly White, with 80.36% of the population identifying as such. Other significant racial groups include Black or African American at 10.17%, followed by smaller percentages for other races (as reported by Point2Homes). The median age in Benton is 38.1 years, with a slightly higher proportion of males to females (as reported by Point2Homes).

Racial Composition

The racial composition of Benton, Arkansas, is largely characterized by a White majority. According to the latest available data, White individuals constitute 80.36% of the population. Black or African American residents make up the second-largest group at 10.17% (as reported by Point2Homes).

Smaller percentages of the population identify with other racial categories, including Asian, Native American, and those of two or more races. The Hispanic or Latino population represents a smaller segment, with specific data varying slightly across different reports (as reported by Point2Homes and Wikipedia).

Age Distribution

Benton’s population has a median age of 38.1 years, indicating a mix of age groups within the community (as reported by Point2Homes). The age distribution shows that 25.3% of residents are under the age of 18, while 14.7% are 65 years or older (as reported by Wikipedia).

The largest age cohort falls between 25 and 44 years old, representing 29.8% of the population, suggesting a significant working-age demographic. This distribution points to a community with a balanced representation of younger families, working professionals, and a senior population.