countyscore
35.8
County Score
Health 89.2Income & Jobs 78.6Soil Quality 73.7

County Report Card

About Benton County, Oregon

A Specialized Profile Below National Median

Benton County carries a 35.8 composite score, trailing the national median of 50.0 by over 14 points. High costs and safety concerns pull down its national percentile ranking.

Trailing the Oregon Average

The county ranks below the Oregon average of 42.5. Despite high individual marks in health and income, its overall performance is hindered by affordability issues.

Excellence in Health and Prosperity

The county excels in health outcomes with a score of 89.2 and maintains a strong income score of 78.6. Median household income reaches $76,011, reflecting a highly educated workforce.

Significant Cost and Safety Barriers

Extreme housing costs result in a score of only 9.5, with median home values hitting $481,700. Safety metrics are also a concern, recording a score of just 2.0.

Best for High-Earning Health Enthusiasts

Benton County is ideal for affluent professionals who value wellness and academic environments over urban safety or affordability. It serves those who can afford high-cost housing to access its premier health infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax39.8Cost9.5Safety2Health89.2Schools48.1Income78.6Risk15.7Water21.6Weather57.5
🏛39.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠9.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼78.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤89.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡15.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧21.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨73.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱42.4
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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Lincoln County
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Polk County
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Lane 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 taxes well above national average

Benton County's effective tax rate of 0.978% ranks in the nation's upper quartile, significantly outpacing the national median of 1.1%. The median annual property tax of $4,713 is 75% higher than the national median of $2,690, reflecting both higher rates and substantially higher home values.

Benton County is Oregon's tax leader

At 0.978%, Benton County has the highest effective tax rate among all Oregon counties, well above the state average of 0.775%. The median property tax of $4,713 is the second-highest in Oregon, owing largely to the county's median home value of $481,700—among the state's highest.

Benton County leads the Willamette Valley

Benton County's 0.978% rate significantly outpaces nearby Clackamas County (0.874%) and Marion County. The median tax bill of $4,713 is the highest in the region, a result of both the county's elevated rate and the area's strong housing market.

Your Benton County tax bill

A median Benton County home valued at $481,700 generates an annual property tax of $4,713. Whether you have a mortgage or own free-and-clear, your tax bill remains relatively stable at $4,727 and $4,692, respectively.

Appeal if assessed above market

High-value Benton County homes are sometimes overassessed relative to recent comparable sales. Oregon allows homeowners to file appeals with the county assessor; even a small percentage reduction on a $480,000+ home can save thousands annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Benton County

via CostByCounty

Benton County: Pricier Than National Average

Benton County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% exceeds both Oregon's state average (19.4%) and reflects stronger housing demand typical of college towns. Though median income here ($76,011) edges above the national median ($74,755), housing costs are climbing faster.

Benton Ranks Among Oregon's Pricier Markets

With a 21.4% rent-to-income ratio, Benton County is less affordable than most Oregon counties, driven partly by Oregon State University's presence in Corvallis. Median rent of $1,359 runs 19% above the state average of $1,137.

Benton's Housing Costs Reflect College-Town Pressures

Benton County's $1,359 rent is higher than Columbia County ($1,221) and Crook County ($1,224), reflecting Corvallis's regional role as an education and tech hub. Even so, homes here average $481,700—less than nearby Clackamas County's $577,900.

Over 1 in 5 Income Goes to Rent

Renters in Benton County spend $1,359 monthly (21.4% of income), while homeowners pay $1,484—both above state norms. The median home value of $481,700 means many households must choose: rent affordably or buy at a premium.

Benton Works for Professionals, Not Budget Hunters

Benton County suits higher-income professionals drawn to its tech ecosystem and university community, but tight budgets should look south or east. Your dollar stretches further in Baker, Columbia, or Crook counties while remaining in central Oregon.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Benton County

via IncomeByCounty

Benton County slightly exceeds U.S. income levels

Benton County's median household income of $76,011 edges just above the national median of $74,755, positioning it solidly in the middle-income range. This modest lead reflects Benton's diverse economy anchored by education and research institutions.

Middle-income ranking in Oregon

Benton County earns $6,046 above Oregon's state median of $69,965, placing it in the upper-middle tier of Oregon counties. Per capita income of $42,112 also exceeds the state average of $37,652.

Outearned by Clackamas, ahead of coastal peers

Benton County's $76,011 median trails Clackamas County ($100,360) but surpasses coastal neighbors like Clatsop ($68,705) and Coos County ($60,313). The gap reflects urban versus rural economic structures across the Willamette Valley and coast.

Rising rents pressure household budgets

Benton County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% is elevated, meaning renters dedicate over one-fifth of earnings to housing—nearing the affordability ceiling. Median home values of $481,700 make ownership challenging for single-income households.

Leverage employer benefits and education

Benton County's proximity to Oregon State University and research centers creates pathways for skills training and salary growth. Maximize employer 401(k) matches and explore professional development to boost earnings in a knowledge-driven economy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Benton County

via CrimeByCounty

Benton Exceeds National Crime Averages

Benton County reports a total crime rate of 4932.2 per 100K, which is double the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this volume, it holds a respectable safety score of 92.2.

Trailing the Oregon Safety Score

Benton's safety score of 92.2 falls behind the Oregon average of 96.3. The total crime rate of 4932.2 per 100K is significantly higher than the state average of 2,366.2.

Higher Activity Than Regional Peers

Seven reporting agencies manage crime data across Benton, reflecting higher activity than neighbor Baker. Property-related incidents drive the majority of the county's law enforcement reports.

The Property Crime Factor

Property crime sits at 4639.4 per 100K, while violent crime is much lower at 292.8. Most residents face a higher statistical risk of theft than personal confrontation.

Vigilance for Benton Homeowners

With property crime as the primary concern, investing in home alarm systems is a wise move. Simple habits like locking cars and hiding valuables help reduce the high property crime rate.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Benton County

via HealthByCounty

Benton County leads on life expectancy

At 82.4 years, Benton County residents live more than 3 years longer than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. The county's 15.3% poor or fair health rate is substantially better than the national 13.5% average.

Oregon's healthiest county by far

Benton County's 82.4-year life expectancy ranks first in Oregon, exceeding the state average of 77.0 years by 5.4 years. The county's health outcomes consistently place it in the top tier nationally.

Far ahead of surrounding counties

Benton County's life expectancy of 82.4 years significantly exceeds Clackamas (79.9), Yamhill (not provided), and all other neighbors. Its healthcare infrastructure—117 primary care and 1,374 mental health providers per 100,000—far surpasses regional peers.

Robust provider access, low barriers

Benton County boasts 117 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, well above national standards, plus unmatched mental health capacity at 1,374 per 100,000. At just 5.7% uninsured, the county provides insurance coverage to 94% of residents.

Nearly all Benton County residents insured

With 94.3% of residents covered, Benton County leads Oregon in insurance access. If you're in the 5.7% uninsured, healthcare.gov and OHP can help connect you to affordable plans quickly.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Benton County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Education Infrastructure

Benton County manages 26 public schools across five districts, serving a total student body of 9,900. The network is robust, featuring 15 elementary schools and four high schools to support a growing population.

Exceeding National Graduation Benchmarks

Benton County achieves an impressive 87.9% graduation rate, surpassing both the state average and the 87% national benchmark. With a per-pupil expenditure of $7,751 and a school score of 54.0, the county demonstrates strong investment and high academic returns.

Corvallis and Albany Lead the Way

Greater Albany Public SD 8J is the largest district with 8,940 students, followed closely by Corvallis SD 509J with 6,292 students. Charter schools are present but limited, representing roughly 11.5% of the county's total schools.

A Diverse Mix of School Locales

Students navigate a mix of 12 city schools, nine rural campuses, and five suburban settings. While Corvallis High School hosts 1,284 students, the county maintains an approachable average school size of 381 students.

Find Your Home in Benton

With graduation rates that lead the state, Benton County is a top destination for education-focused homebuyers. Explore residential options near Corvallis or Albany to secure access to these high-performing districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Benton County

via RiskByCounty

Benton County: Moderate National Risk

Benton County scores 84.35 on the composite risk scale, earning a "Relatively Moderate" rating and exceeding Oregon's 63.43 state average by over 20 points. This places the county in the higher-risk band nationally, driven primarily by earthquake vulnerability.

Mid-Tier Risk Among Oregon Counties

Benton County ranks in the middle range of Oregon's 36 counties by overall disaster risk. While not the most hazardous county statewide, its composite score places it above average for the state.

Moderate Risk in Willamette Valley

Benton County's 84.35 score sits between neighboring Marion County's higher risk and Columbia County's lower risk, reflecting typical Willamette Valley exposure. Nearby Washington County and Yamhill County face similar multi-hazard profiles.

Earthquakes and Floods Dominate

Earthquake risk is exceptionally high at 97.23—among the state's highest—while flood risk of 74.81 reflects the county's position in Oregon's primary river valleys. Wildfire (37.05) and tornado (12.66) risks are comparatively lower, though not negligible.

Earthquake and Flood Coverage Essential

Standard homeowners policies exclude earthquake damage; Benton County residents should purchase separate earthquake insurance to protect against the county's significant seismic threat. Flood insurance is equally critical if your home sits in a designated flood zone or near the Willamette River.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Benton County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Willamette Valley Weather Patterns

Benton County maintains an average annual temperature of 51.6°F, slightly cooler than the national median. The region receives a robust 51.1 inches of rain annually, characterizing it as a temperate maritime-influenced zone.

Warmer and Wetter Than the Oregon Average

Benton is slightly warmer than the state average of 50.5°F and significantly wetter than the 37.4-inch state precipitation average. This combination supports the lush, green landscapes of the mid-Willamette Valley.

Moderate Temperatures Compared to Neighbors

Benton enjoys moderate extremes, seeing only 16 days above 90°F compared to the higher heat counts in southern Oregon. Its winter average of 40.2°F remains much milder than the cold winters found in the state's eastern counties.

Rainy Winters and Pleasant Summers

The county sees a rainy January averaging 39.7°F, while snowfall remains minimal at just 4.1 inches per year. Summers are gentle, with July temperatures averaging 66.0°F and relatively few extreme heat events.

Invest in Quality Rain Gear

With over 51 inches of annual precipitation, waterproof clothing and gutter maintenance are priorities for local residents. While extreme heat is rare, having a portable cooling solution for the 16 annual hot days ensures summer comfort.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Benton County

via SoilByCounty

The Valley's Rich Acidic Foundation

Benton County features a stratified sand to gravel texture with an average pH of 5.28. This level is nearly identical to the state average of 5.26 but significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5.

Silt-Heavy Soils for Steady Growth

The soil composition is dominated by 52.4% silt, balanced with 23.6% sand and 22.5% clay. This silty mix offers excellent workability and enough clay to retain essential nutrients for the region's diverse agriculture.

High Organic Content and Water Storage

Benton County boasts a high organic matter content of 26.30%, far exceeding the national 2% average. With an available water capacity of 0.282 in/in, the soil holds slightly more moisture than the Oregon state average.

Managing Stratified Drainage Patterns

The stratified sand and gravel layers suggest varied drainage across the county, though official drainage classes are unassigned. These underground layers typically provide a natural filter for the valley's heavy winter rains.

Success in Zone 8b

With a 73.7 soil score and a mild 8b hardiness zone, this is prime land for berries, nuts, and wine grapes. The soil's natural acidity and high moisture capacity create a perfect environment for iconic Oregon crops.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Benton County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Growing in the Willamette Valley

Benton County earns a 42.4 lawn difficulty score, outperforming the state average of 38.9. Situated in Hardiness Zone 8b, the region provides a temperate environment that supports a wide variety of lush turf options.

Abundant Rain and Mild Summers

The county receives 51.1 inches of annual rain, which sit slightly above the ideal lawn range and significantly higher than the state average of 37.4. Only 16 extreme heat days per year mean your grass faces less summer stress than neighboring inland counties.

Counteracting Acidic, Sandy Soils

Your soil pH of 5.28 is notably more acidic than the preferred 6.0 to 7.0 range for turf. The ground is a mix of 22.5% clay and 23.6% sand, suggesting you need regular lime applications to neutralize acidity and improve nutrient availability.

Staying Green Through Dry Spells

Despite high annual rainfall, the county faced 28 weeks of drought last year, and 99.4% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Mulch-mowing and leaving clippings on the lawn can help retain moisture during the drier summer months.

Early Spring Planting Window

Perennial Ryegrass and Tall Fescue thrive in this 8b zone and handle the local moisture levels well. Plan your planting for late April once the last frost passes on April 17 to take advantage of the remaining spring rains.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Benton County's county score?
Benton County, Oregon has a composite county score of 35.8 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 Oregon?
Benton County ranks #27 among all counties in Oregon 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, Oregon?
The median annual property tax in Benton County is $4,713, with an effective tax rate of 0.98%. This earns Benton County a tax score of 39.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Benton County?
The median household income in Benton County, Oregon is $76,011 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Benton County earns an income score of 78.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Benton County, Oregon a good place to live?
Benton County scores 35.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #27 in Oregon. 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.