countyscore
50.4
County Score
Property Tax 79.6Cost of Living 68.8Lawn Care 65.5

County Report Card

About Benton County, Missouri

Aligned with National Median

Benton County earns a 50.4, placing it almost exactly at the national median of 50.0. This makes it a perfectly average, representative slice of American livability.

Matching the State Average

With a 50.4 score, Benton County sits right at the Missouri state average of 50.3. It offers a balanced profile that reflects the general quality of life found across the state.

Leading in Tax Affordability

Benton County features an elite tax score of 79.6, supported by a very low effective tax rate of 0.557%. Housing is also affordable, with a cost score of 68.8 and median rents of $823.

Income and Health Limitations

The income score of 19.0 reflects a median household income of $52,200. The health score of 26.8 also indicates that medical access or outcomes may be more limited than in neighboring areas.

Best for Retirees and Fixed Incomes

Benton County is a standout for anyone on a fixed income, thanks to its extremely low property taxes. It offers a stable, average American lifestyle with exceptional financial benefits for homeowners.

Score breakdown

Tax79.6Cost68.8Safety47.6Health26.8Schools40.7Income19Risk33.2Water38.2Weather55.3
🏛79.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠68.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼19
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡47.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤26.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓40.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡33.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧38.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨53
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱65.5
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

Morgan County
Missouri
53.7
Pettis County
Missouri
41.1
Hickory County
Missouri
57.8
Henry County
Missouri
44.5
St. Clair County
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Camden County
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Johnson County
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Moniteau County
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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 offers the nation's lightest burden

Benton County's effective property tax rate of 0.557% ranks among the lowest in the entire nation, far below the national median of 0.863%. Homeowners here enjoy one of America's most tax-friendly environments.

Missouri's lowest-tax county here

At 0.557%, Benton County claims the lowest effective rate among all eight profiled counties and ranks in Missouri's bottom fifth overall. The median tax of $918 represents some of the lightest property tax bills in the state.

Tax rates drop sharply moving south

Benton County's 0.557% rate significantly undercuts northern counties, with only Bates County (0.621%) coming close among this cohort. Compare this to Atchison County (1.171%) or Audrain County (0.875%), and the difference becomes striking.

Lowest bills in the region

With median home values of $164,700 and a 0.557% rate, Benton County homeowners pay approximately $918 in annual property taxes. Even with mortgage escrow, the amount reaches just $934—exceptionally low by any standard.

Periodic assessment checks still matter

While Benton County offers low rates, homeowners should still verify their assessments against recent comparable sales. Even small errors in valuation can compound over decades of property ownership and taxation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Benton County

via CostByCounty

Benton's rent burden surpasses state and nation

Benton County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks second-worst among these eight counties, exceeding Missouri's 15.6% state average by 21%. With a median household income of just $52,200—30% below the national median—renters face significant affordability strain.

Benton ranks among Missouri's least affordable

Benton County stands near the bottom of Missouri's affordability rankings, with the second-highest rent-to-income ratio in this dataset and below-average household incomes. The county's housing costs consume an outsized share of local earnings.

Benton rents spike relative to low incomes

Benton's $823 median rent ranks fourth-highest in this group, yet its household income of $52,200 ranks lowest among homeowners, creating acute pressure. The county's higher Ozark location drives rents upward despite incomes lagging the rural state average.

Renters face maximum affordability pressure

Renters pay $823 monthly while homeowners invest $618, with median home values at $164,700 offering an ownership path to affordability relief. The $52,200 household income means renters dedicate 18.9% of gross earnings to housing—dangerously close to sustainability limits for working families.

Benton suits homebuyers more than renters

If you're relocating to Benton, prioritize homeownership: owner costs ($618) undercut rents by $205 monthly, providing immediate relief for families with down-payment capacity. Remote workers earning $60,000+ or career-established professionals should strongly consider this county; renters on typical Benton incomes face genuine affordability stress.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Benton County

via IncomeByCounty

Benton significantly below national income

Benton County's median household income of $52,200 falls $22,555 short of the national median of $74,755. This substantial gap reflects a county economy with limited high-wage employment opportunities.

Lowest-earning in this analysis

At $52,200, Benton County's median household income ranks among the lowest in this eight-county study, trailing Missouri's state average of $59,503 by $7,303. The county faces economic challenges similar to Barton, with incomes well below state norms.

Below-average earner regionally

Benton's $52,200 median income ranks among the weakest in the region, exceeding only Barton County's $49,503. The county underperforms most neighbors, suggesting local job market limitations compared to surrounding areas.

Housing costs pressure budgets

Benton's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks second-highest in this analysis, approaching affordability stress for renters. The median home value of $164,700 consumes a substantial portion of household earnings, limiting discretionary savings for residents.

Benton households: prioritize foundations first

With income at $52,200, Benton residents must focus on budgeting and building emergency reserves before aggressive investing. Once housing costs are stabilized and savings cushions established, even modest contributions to retirement accounts will compound meaningfully over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Benton County

via CrimeByCounty

Benton County Safe Compared to US

Benton County reports a total crime rate of 1,177.6 per 100K, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county a high safety score of 98.1.

One of Missouri's Safer Counties

Benton's safety score of 98.1 exceeds the state average of 97.0. Its total crime rate is also well below the Missouri state average of 1,926.2 per 100K.

Strong Safety Record Near Lakes

Benton maintains a lower crime rate than regional peer Barry County, which sits at 2,152.7. It is one of the more secure counties in the central Missouri lake region.

Minimal Violent and Property Crime

The property crime rate is 983.9 per 100K, which is about half the national average. Violent crime is also low at 193.7 per 100K residents.

Protecting Seasonal and Lake Properties

Residents can help maintain low rates by securing vacation properties and boats, which are often targets. Modern alarm systems offer peace of mind for both full-time and seasonal residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Benton County

via HealthByCounty

Benton trails U.S. health benchmarks

Benton County's 73.7-year life expectancy falls short of the U.S. average of 74.4 years, and 21.8% of residents report poor or fair health. These figures place Benton among America's weaker-performing counties for population health.

Benton ranks low statewide

Benton's 73.7-year life expectancy trails Missouri's state average of 74.3 years, ranking it among the state's lower-performing counties. Its 14.9% uninsured rate is the highest among these eight counties, creating a significant barrier to care access.

Among the region's most challenged

Benton's 73.7-year life expectancy is the region's lowest, slightly behind Audrain and Atchison (both 73.9). Its 14.9% uninsured rate is the highest among peers, indicating Benton faces compounded health and access challenges.

Fewest providers and most uninsured

Benton has just 25 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—well below adequate levels—while 14.9% of residents lack insurance, the highest rate in this cohort. This combination creates a dual crisis: few doctors and limited ability to pay for them.

Benton's uninsured rate demands action.

At 14.9% uninsured, Benton has the highest rate among these counties—one in six residents lacks coverage. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 today to explore Medicaid, ACA marketplace plans, and community health options that fit your needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Benton County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Schooling in Benton County

Benton County hosts 2,589 students in nine public schools across three districts. The system includes four elementary schools, one middle school, and three high schools, along with one additional specialized facility. This streamlined approach focuses student populations into a few well-defined regional hubs.

Strong Graduation Rates and Value Spending

Benton County delivers a 92.5% graduation rate, surpassing the Missouri average of 91.3%. The county maintains these results with $5,747 in per-pupil expenditure, operating more efficiently than the state average of $6,334. The overall school score of 52.1 remains competitive with state benchmarks.

Warsaw R-IX Serves as the Hub

The Warsaw R-IX district is the county's largest, educating 1,320 students across four schools. Cole Camp R-I and Lincoln R-II also play significant roles, serving 756 and 513 students respectively. No charter schools exist in the county, emphasizing the role of the traditional district in these communities.

A Predominantly Rural Learning Experience

Eight of the county's nine schools are in rural locales, reflecting the area's spread-out nature. Schools average 288 students each, providing a balance between individual attention and social opportunities. Warsaw High School is the largest campus in the county with 403 students.

Choose Your Community in Benton County

With its high graduation rates and choice of three stable districts, Benton County is a smart move for growing families. The Warsaw and Cole Camp areas offer a classic Missouri town-and-country feel with strong school ties. Explore homes near these districts to benefit from a community that consistently graduates its students.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Benton County

via RiskByCounty

Benton faces above-average disaster risk

Benton County's composite risk score of 66.83 ranks in the Relatively Low category but sits 32% above Missouri's state average of 50.56. This elevated exposure reflects significant hazard threats across multiple disaster types in your region.

Benton ranks among higher-risk Missouri counties

Benton County places in the upper-middle tier of natural disaster risk statewide, with hazard exposure that exceeds most Missouri communities. Several counties carry higher risk, but your county sits well above the state median.

Similar risk to Barry County

Benton County's 66.83 score closely rivals neighboring Barry County (75.06) and substantially exceeds safer areas to the north. Your county sits in southwestern Missouri's elevated-risk zone, where multiple hazards converge.

Wildfire and tornado risks are significant

Wildfire risk leads Benton County at 69.47, with tornado exposure close behind at 74.65—making your county vulnerable to wind-driven disasters. Flood (67.37) and earthquake (59.41) risks are also notable, creating a complex hazard environment.

Multi-hazard coverage essential here

Benton County residents must secure windstorm, flood, and wildfire insurance coverage to address your county's overlapping hazard profile. Create defensible space around your home by clearing brush, and maintain a family communication plan for rapid evacuation scenarios.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Benton County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer and Snowy Central Missouri

Benton County’s annual average of 55.3°F sits above the national median temperature. It receives 43 inches of precipitation, closely matching the Missouri average of 43.8 inches.

Central Missouri's Temperature Benchmark

The county is slightly warmer than the Missouri average of 54.9°F. Its central location creates a blend of southern heat and northern winter patterns.

Surprisingly Snowy Compared to Neighbors

Benton receives 18.4 inches of snow, which is nearly triple the 6.7 inches found in southern Barry County. It faces 38 extreme heat days, placing it between Bates and Barry in intensity.

A Blend of Heat and Snow

July averages a hot 78.3°F with 38 days reaching 90°F or more. Conversely, the 18.4 inches of annual snowfall is relatively high for this part of the state.

Preparing for Both Extremes

Residents need both heavy-duty snow removal tools and powerful air conditioning. Outdoor planning should account for both the 38 days of high heat and the significant winter snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Benton County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Landscapes in Benton

Benton County soil has a pH of 5.88, making it slightly more acidic than the state average and well below the national median of 6.5. The overall soil score of 53.0 indicates some challenges for intensive agriculture compared to state benchmarks.

Silt and Clay Structural Balance

The soil is made of 19.8% sand, 57.1% silt, and 20.1% clay. This distribution provides a fair balance of drainage and water retention, though the high silt content can lead to surface crusting after heavy rains.

Steady Water Availability

Organic matter levels are relatively low at 2.08%, falling far below Missouri's 4.74% average. However, the Available Water Capacity of 0.185 in/in is slightly better than the state average, providing a steady supply of moisture.

Moderate Permeability Profile

While specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are not listed, the soil's composition suggests moderate permeability. Improving organic matter through composting will be key to unlocking the full potential of this soil.

Versatile Zone 6b Gardening

Benton County resides in Zone 6b, providing a versatile climate for both spring and fall gardening. Focus on soil-building practices and you will find success with hardy vegetables like beans, peas, and root crops.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Benton County

via LawnByCounty

Benton County Lawns Meet the Mark

Benton County's lawn difficulty score of 65.5 is slightly better than the Missouri average, making it a solid place for home landscaping. In hardiness zone 6b, the county enjoys a balance of northern and southern climate traits.

Long Seasons and High Degrees

The county sees 4059 growing degree days, resulting in a long and productive growing season. With 43.0 inches of rain and 38 extreme heat days, the climate is slightly more aggressive than the state average but remains manageable for most homeowners.

Addressing Soil Acidity

The local soil pH is 5.88, which is just below the preferred range for most turfgrasses. With a balanced mix of 20.1% clay and 19.8% sand, focusing on pH correction with lime will be more important than changing the soil's physical texture.

Resilience in the Face of Dryness

Benton County experienced 17 weeks of drought over the past year and remains 100% abnormally dry today. Because the county has a long history of dry spells, selecting grass with high drought tolerance is a smart long-term investment.

Planting for a Long Season

Your first fall frost doesn't typically arrive until October 30th, giving you a very long window for growth. Seed your lawn after the April 13th frost, and choose a blend that can withstand the 38 annual days of extreme heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Benton County's county score?
Benton County, Missouri has a composite county score of 50.4 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 Missouri?
Benton County ranks #57 among all counties in Missouri 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, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Benton County is $918, with an effective tax rate of 0.56%. This earns Benton County a tax score of 79.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Benton County?
The median household income in Benton County, Missouri is $52,200 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Benton County earns an income score of 19/100 on CountyScore.
Is Benton County, Missouri a good place to live?
Benton County scores 50.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #57 in Missouri. 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.