Safety in Benton
Detailed safety data — sourced from authoritative datasets and normalized for direct comparison.
Safety in Benton, Arkansas
Benton, Arkansas, has a safety profile that warrants consideration. The city's safety grade is D, with a violent crime rate of 414.0 per 100,000 residents in 2024, which is 18% above the national average. Property crime also contributes significantly to the overall crime rate, with 2,265.2 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2024. Despite these figures, the violent crime rate did see a 9.5% drop from the previous year, indicating an improving trajectory based on five years of data. While some residents may feel safe, the crime statistics suggest a need for awareness, particularly concerning property offenses which are the most common type of crime in Benton.
Safety Scores
About Benton, Arkansas
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.
About Arkansas
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.