City Profile
Benton, Arkansas
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Benton, Arkansas, the county seat of Saline County, is a growing city known for its blend of small-town charm and access to larger metropolitan amenities. First settled in 1833 and officially chartered in 1836, the city is named after Missouri Senator Thomas Hart Benton. It has experienced significant population growth, increasing by an estimated 8% between 2019 and 2024, making it one of Arkansas's fastest-growing communities. People are drawn to Benton for its family-friendly atmosphere, highly-rated school district, and a cost of living that is notably lower than the national average. The city offers a welcoming community environment and a growing economy, making it an attractive place for both families and individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Arkansas, known as "The Natural State," offers diverse geography from the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains to the Mississippi River Delta, fostering a relaxed, nature-oriented lifestyle. The economy, historically rooted in agriculture with rice and poultry as leading products, has diversified to include significant contributions from manufacturing (food products, chemicals, wood and paper products, aerospace parts) and a growing service sector, largely influenced by Walmart's presence. Living in Arkansas is generally affordable, with a cost of living consistently below the national average, particularly for housing. The state experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers, and while property taxes are low, sales taxes can be high.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 55 / 100 | 55.0 | 30% | 16.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $72,876 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 3% | 76.6 | 20% | 15.3 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.8% Job growth rate: 3.18% | 76.8 | 15% | 11.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 63.8 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=79), last refreshed
18 August 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
Featured Events
Happening in Benton
Featured and sponsored events in Benton.
Local Directory
Businesses in Benton
Featured local businesses in Benton.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Benton, Arkansas, is a significant draw, being approximately 8% lower than the national average. This affordability extends particularly to housing, with costs running about 22% lower than typical U.S. cities, allowing residents' housing dollars to stretch further whether renting or buying. While specific breakdowns for utilities, food, and transportation are not readily available, the overall lower cost of living suggests that these categories are also more affordable compared to national benchmarks. This economic advantage, coupled with Arkansas's favorable tax structure, contributes to a comfortable living standard without significant financial strain for Benton residents.
Income
Salary Insights
Benton's economy is characterized by steady growth and a diverse job market. From 2023 to 2024, employment in the city grew at a rate of 3.18%. The most common employment sectors for residents include Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Educational Services. While these sectors employ a significant portion of the workforce, higher-paying industries such as Utilities, Wholesale Trade, and Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services also contribute to the local economy. Benton County, where the city is located, has also seen substantial wage growth, with a 15.5% increase in average weekly wages in 2024, driven largely by professional and business services. This indicates a dynamic job market with opportunities across various fields, though remote work specifics are not detailed.
The average salary in Benton is $43,632 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Benton is largely car-dependent, with limited public transit options. Approximately 89% of residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, and nearly 80% drive alone to work. The average commute time is 24.2 minutes, which is slightly shorter than the national average. While some areas may have a 'Somewhat Walkable' score, the overall Walk Score for Benton is low at 30 out of 100, and some neighborhoods are considered 'Car-Dependent,' meaning most errands require a car. Public transportation usage is minimal, with only about 0.1% of commuters utilizing it. This highlights the necessity of owning a car for efficient travel within and outside the city, especially for commutes to larger job centers like Little Rock, which can take 30-35 minutes.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Benton
Community Q&A
Questions about Benton
What people ask about living in and moving to Benton, Arkansas.
How does the cost of living in Benton compare to the national average?
Benton’s cost of living index is 92, meaning it’s about 8% cheaper than the national average. Housing, groceries, and utilities are slightly lower, while some services may be comparable. This can allow a modest increase in discretionary spending, but overall savings depend on personal spending habits.
How are the public schools in Benton rated?
Public schools in Benton generally receive average ratings, with some schools performing above state averages in certain subjects. Visiting school district websites and reviewing state assessment reports can provide detailed performance data and help you compare schools.
What kinds of jobs are available in Benton for someone with a software engineering degree?
Benton has a mix of manufacturing, retail, and service-oriented jobs. While there are some opportunities in tech support and small local startups, the market is not as large as in metropolitan areas. It’s wise to research local business listings and network through community events to uncover niche roles.
Where can I find good healthcare facilities in Benton?
The city hosts a range of healthcare providers, including a regional hospital, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics. For comprehensive care, you can check the city’s health department listings or consult local directories to find facilities that meet your needs.
What is the average salary for residents in Benton?
The average annual salary in Benton is $43,632. This figure reflects a range of occupations across the city. When budgeting, consider local wage standards for your industry and compare them with the cost of living index to estimate purchasing power.
Is Benton a safe place to live?
Benton’s safety score is 55 out of 100, which is moderate. Crime rates are lower than some larger cities but higher than rural areas. Checking local police reports and community forums can give you a more nuanced view of specific neighborhoods.
What is the best time of year to move to Benton?
Spring and early fall are generally mild, making moving easier. Rental prices tend to be lower in the late winter and early spring, while summer can see a slight uptick. Planning your move during these periods can reduce stress and costs.
What is the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Benton?
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Benton is $917 per month. Prices can vary by location and amenities, so checking local listings or contacting real estate agents will give you a clearer idea of current market rates.
What public transportation options are available in Benton?
Benton offers a city transit authority that runs a few bus routes covering key areas such as downtown, commercial districts, and nearby parks. The service is limited, so many residents rely on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for convenience.
What are the main attractions or activities in Benton?
Benton offers several parks, a historic downtown area, and local festivals throughout the year. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby trails and water bodies, while families can enjoy community events and museums that highlight regional history.
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Benton? Add your own.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Benton
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Benton with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing