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.
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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.
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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.
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