countyscore
38.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 91.9Property Tax 73.3Health 62.9

County Report Card

About Benton County, Arkansas

Below National Average Despite High Incomes

Benton County scores 38.7, below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the bottom 30% of U.S. counties despite boasting one of Arkansas's highest median household incomes of $89,879. This paradox reflects tradeoffs: strong earnings offset by high costs and safety concerns.

Lowest-Scoring High-Income County in State

Benton County ranks below the state average of 47.9, making it an outlier—the only major job center and high-income hub in Arkansas that scores below state norms. This signals that economic growth has not translated into overall livability improvements.

Strong Incomes and Solid Health Metrics Drive Value

With an income score of 91.9 and median household income of $89,879, Benton County attracts high earners, supported by a health score of 62.9—the strongest in this cohort. Water quality (40.3) and environmental stability (11.3 risk score) round out solid fundamentals.

Soaring Housing Costs and Safety Concerns Burden Residents

The cost score plummets to just 15.9, with median home values reaching $285,100 and gross rent at $1,193 per month—among the state's highest. A safety score of 12.3 and school score of 29.8 add friction to the high-income appeal.

For Dual-Income Couples Willing to Pay Premium Prices

Benton County suits high-earning dual-income households who can absorb $1,200+ monthly rents and $280k+ home prices in exchange for job opportunities and health services. This is Arkansas's economic engine, not its livability leader—expect to trade affordability for career growth.

Score breakdown

Tax73.3Cost15.9Safety12.3Health62.9Schools29.8Income91.9Risk11.3Water40.3Weather62.8
🏛73.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠15.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡12.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓29.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡11.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧40.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨50
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.3
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Benton County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Benton County

via TaxByCounty

Benton County matches national rates

At 0.607%, Benton County's effective tax rate runs 23% higher than the national median of 0.495%, though it falls short of the highest-taxed counties nationwide. With a median home value of $285,100—essentially at the national average—residents pay $1,731 annually, just 36% below the national median of $2,690.

Second-highest rate in Arkansas

Benton County ranks second among these eight counties with a 0.607% effective rate, just behind Ashley County (0.610%) and significantly above Arkansas's state average of 0.532%. The county's higher property values mean larger absolute tax bills despite rates typical for prosperous areas.

The premium among county peers

Benton County's 0.607% rate exceeds all nearby counties, including Boone County (0.534%) and Carroll County (0.526%), though its median home value of $285,100 reflects its status as the wealthiest county in this comparison. This combination creates the highest median tax bill ($1,731) of all eight counties.

Your estimated annual tax bill

On a median home valued at $285,100, a Benton County homeowner pays approximately $1,731 per year. Mortgage holders typically see $1,838 in annual escrow payments.

Substantial appeal savings await

At Benton County's median tax bill of $1,731, even a 10% reduction from a successful appeal saves $173 annually—over $1,700 in a decade. Request a formal reassessment if your property's market value has declined or if comparable homes are assessed lower.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Benton County

via CostByCounty

Benton County: High Earners, Manageable Rents

Benton County's median household income of $89,879 dramatically exceeds the national average of $74,755, making the 15.9% rent-to-income ratio feel comfortable despite $1,193 monthly rent. Higher wages here absorb elevated housing costs more easily than in lower-income counties.

Arkansas's Most Affluent County

Benton County leads all eight counties in income and ranks among Arkansas's strongest economic engines, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% against the state average of 18.1%. This outperformance reflects robust job growth and professional opportunities throughout the region.

Premium Pricing for Premium Wages

Benton County's $1,193 rent substantially exceeds nearby counties—more than $375 above Boone County ($715) and $375 above Carroll County ($818)—yet household income justifies the premium. Median home values of $285,100 position this as the region's luxury housing market.

Income Cushions Housing Costs

Renters allocate $1,193 monthly to housing while owners pay $1,246, a narrow margin reflecting an expensive but balanced market. With median income of $89,879 annually, housing consumes just 16% of total earnings, leaving ample resources for savings and discretionary spending.

Benton County: Premium Housing, Strong Incomes

Relocating to Benton County makes sense if you're pursuing high-wage employment or can command similar income remotely—housing costs scale up, but so do opportunities. This county rewards ambitious professionals seeking dynamic job markets alongside manageable housing burdens.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Benton County

via IncomeByCounty

Benton County powers ahead nationally

At $89,879, Benton County's median household income exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $15,124, ranking among the nation's stronger earners. This puts the county in the top quartile of U.S. counties, driven by robust regional economic growth.

Arkansas's top-earning county stands out

Benton County's $89,879 median household income towers $38,723 above Arkansas's state average of $51,156, making it the economic engine of the state. This commanding advantage reflects concentrated business investment, tech sector growth, and high-wage employers.

Dramatically outearns surrounding counties

Benton County's $89,879 income vastly exceeds nearby Carroll County ($55,187) and Boone County ($54,195) by $35,000+. The disparity illustrates Benton's unique position as a regional economic powerhouse and job creation hub.

Strong income supports stable homeownership

At 15.9% of household income, Benton County's rent-to-income ratio remains well within healthy affordability ranges despite a median home value of $285,100. The county's higher incomes successfully offset elevated housing costs.

Leverage high earnings for wealth building

Benton County residents earning above national average incomes can aggressively fund retirement accounts, investment portfolios, and college savings plans. Consider maxing 401(k) contributions ($23,500 annually for 2024) and diversifying into index funds or real estate for compounding returns.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Benton County

via CrimeByCounty

Benton County’s Safety Score and National Context

Benton County reports a total crime rate of 2,580.6 per 100K, which is slightly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. It maintains a safety score of 95.9.

Benton County’s Safety Rank in Arkansas

The county’s safety score sits just below the Arkansas state average of 96.3. Nineteen reporting agencies work to manage crime across this rapidly growing region.

Regional Safety vs Growing Benton County

Benton County has a higher crime rate than neighboring Carroll and Boone counties. This is typical for more urbanized counties with larger populations and higher traffic volumes.

Violent vs Property Crime Breakdown

Property crimes account for 2,067.9 incidents per 100K, while violent crimes stand at 512.7. Both figures currently sit higher than their respective national averages.

Vehicle and Home Security Tips

Growth brings more activity, so staying vigilant about locking vehicles is essential. Simple preventative measures go a long way in reducing the property crime rate here.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Benton County

via HealthByCounty

Tops national life expectancy averages

Benton County residents live an average of 78.2 years, nearly 2 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Only 16.9% report poor or fair health, better than the national average of 17.3%, reflecting one of Arkansas's healthiest populations. Benton stands as a model for health outcomes statewide.

The state's health outcome leader

Benton County's 78.2-year life expectancy exceeds Arkansas's state average of 72.3 years by nearly 6 years—the largest margin among major counties. Despite a 10.6% uninsured rate slightly above the state average, residents benefit from robust healthcare infrastructure and strong preventive care networks. Benton is Arkansas's healthiest county.

Dramatically outpacing all peers

Benton County's 78.2-year life expectancy far exceeds every comparison county: Baxter (74.2), Boone (74.2), Carroll (75.3), Arkansas (68.7), Ashley (70.9), and Bradley (71.5). With 60 primary care providers and 253 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Benton combines longevity with exceptional healthcare access.

Excellent access supports healthy living

Benton County's 10.6% uninsured rate affects roughly one in ten residents, yet those with coverage enjoy abundant providers. With 60 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 253 mental health specialists per 100,000, residents can find appointments quickly and access preventive, mental health, and specialty care.

Maintain Benton's health advantage

Ensure your family stays covered by checking marketplace options at healthcare.gov or reviewing employer plans annually. Even in Arkansas's healthiest county, staying insured helps you access the preventive care that keeps you well.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Benton County

via SchoolsByCounty

Arkansas's Academic Powerhouse

Benton County operates a massive infrastructure of 84 public schools across 11 districts, serving 54,314 students. The system is heavily weighted toward primary education with 46 elementary schools and 22 middle schools fueling its rapid growth.

High Volume and Consistent Achievement

Despite managing tens of thousands of students, the county maintains a 89.2% graduation rate, beating the 87% national average. While the per-pupil expenditure of $5,983 is low compared to national figures, the scale of the system supports a respectable 50.9 school score.

Bentonville and Rogers Lead the Region

The Bentonville School District alone serves 18,674 students, while Rogers School District follows with 15,964. The county is also a hub for innovation, with 15 charter schools—including the massive Arkansas Connections Academy—making up 17.9% of all schools.

Urban Scale with Diverse Locales

Schooling here feels urban, with 45 schools located in city centers and an average enrollment of 647 students. Bentonville High is a standout with 3,322 students, though 25 rural schools ensure that country-style education is still available in the outlying areas.

Top-Tier Schools Driving Real Estate

Education is the primary engine for home buyers in Benton County, where proximity to Bentonville or Rogers schools can significantly impact property values. The vast array of charter and traditional options ensures families can find a tailored fit for their children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Benton County

via RiskByCounty

Benton County faces elevated risk

Benton County's composite risk score of 88.74 significantly exceeds national averages, earning it a "relatively moderate" rating despite being above-average in the nation. This county faces notable exposure across multiple hazard types.

Highest-risk county in Arkansas

At 88.74, Benton County ranks as Arkansas's most at-risk county, far exceeding the state average of 55.51. Its position in northwest Arkansas exposes it to concentrated flood, wildfire, and severe weather hazards.

Significantly riskier than neighbors

Benton County's 88.74 dwarfs Carroll County's 64.57 and Baxter County's 72.30, making it substantially riskier than surrounding Ozark region counties. Only a few Arkansas counties approach Benton's risk profile.

Flood and wildfire are paramount

Flood risk of 90.43 is Benton County's most pressing hazard, reflecting the county's river valleys and urban development patterns. Wildfire risk of 92.78 ranks nearly as high, with forested areas and expanding suburbs creating ignition and exposure risk.

Flood and fire insurance non-negotiable

Separate flood insurance is essential given the 90.43 flood score; standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. Invest in fire-resistant roofing and landscaping, maintain evacuation plans, and ensure comprehensive coverage for both flood and wildfire scenarios.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Benton County

via WeatherByCounty

Northwest Arkansas Temperate Trends

Benton County features an annual average temperature of 58.8°F. This is more moderate than the national median, offering a distinct four-season experience.

Lower Temperatures Than State Median

Benton County stays cooler than the Arkansas average of 61.0°F. Its location in the state's northwest corner contributes to these lower year-round averages.

Warmer Than Neighboring Boone

Benton County's 58.8°F average is warmer than Boone County’s 57.7°F. However, it receives 11 inches of snow annually, which is more than Boone’s 8.8 inches.

Snowy Winters and Warm Summers

This county sees 11 inches of annual snowfall, which is high for Arkansas. Summer remains active with 51 days of heat exceeding 90°F.

Winterize Pipes and Vehicles

The 11-inch snow average requires residents to have snow removal tools and winter tires ready. Homeowners should also ensure efficient heating for the 37.0°F January average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Benton County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Loam Foundations in Benton

Benton County features high-quality loam soils categorized as Ultisols. The pH level of 5.55 matches the state average almost exactly but remains a full point below the national median of 6.5. These soils provide a stable, productive base that has historically supported diverse agricultural ventures.

The Ideal Textural Balance

With 48.4% silt, 24.2% sand, and 15.1% clay, this soil hits a 'sweet spot' for workability and nutrient retention. The loamy texture is easy to till and provides an excellent environment for root development. It resists the extreme compaction of clay-heavy soils while offering better structure than pure sand.

High Carbon for Healthy Crops

Benton County boasts an impressive 10.34% organic matter, more than double the Arkansas average of 4.15%. While its water capacity of 0.136 in/in is slightly below the state average, the high organic content supports a thriving microbial community. This fertility profile is a major reason why the county's soil score is a top-tier 50.0.

Stable Drainage for Diverse Use

The soil is moderately well drained and falls into hydrologic group C. This indicates that while the soil manages water well, it may saturate during sustained heavy rain. It is a reliable choice for suburban landscaping and farming, provided there is adequate surface runoff management.

Garden Capital of Zone 7a

In Hardiness Zone 7a, Benton County is perfect for everything from cool-weather greens to summer tomatoes. The exceptional soil score of 50.0 is the highest in this group, reflecting superior growing potential. Whether you are planting a small raised bed or a large orchard, these soils are some of the best in the state.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Benton County

via LawnByCounty

Arkansas Leader in Lawn Ease

Benton County leads the pack with a lawn difficulty score of 51.3, making it easier to maintain than both the state and national averages. Its location in Zone 7a provides a temperate balance for healthy turf development.

Optimal Precipitation and Milder Summers

The county receives 47.1 inches of rain annually, fitting perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal window for lawns. With only 51 extreme heat days, turf in this region faces less thermal stress than the rest of Arkansas.

Managing Moderately Well-Drained Loam

The local soil is a loam with a pH of 5.55, requiring some adjustments to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 threshold. Its moderately well-drained nature makes it an excellent foundation for both cool and warm-season grasses.

Brief But Intense Drought Spells

While the county only saw 16 weeks of drought in the past year, nearly 96% of the area is currently in severe drought. Monitor soil moisture closely during these peaks to maintain your lawn's competitive advantage.

Spring Planting in Northwest Arkansas

Transition-zone grasses like Zoysia or Tall Fescue thrive here, provided they are established after the April 8th frost date. The mild climate and 4,615 growing degree days offer a productive window for a beautiful yard.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Benton County's county score?
Benton County, Arkansas has a composite county score of 38.7 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Benton County rank among counties in Arkansas?
Benton County ranks #64 among all counties in Arkansas on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Benton County, Arkansas?
The median annual property tax in Benton County is $1,731, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Benton County a tax score of 73.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Benton County?
The median household income in Benton County, Arkansas is $89,879 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Benton County earns an income score of 91.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Benton County, Arkansas a good place to live?
Benton County scores 38.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #64 in Arkansas. The best way to evaluate Benton County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Benton County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.