Benson, AZ
Population 5,331 · Arizona
About Benson, AZ
Benson is a small town located in Arizona with a population of 5,331 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,854 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.5 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Benson features a median home value of $145,700, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Benson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $759, 35% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,171 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (1,594 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (799 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Benson shows an unemployment rate of 8.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Benson have an average one-way commute time of 27.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.7% of Benson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 14.0% White, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 3.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Benson, AZ
Compared to national averages, Benson has a median household income of $48,854 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $145,700, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $759 is 35% below the US average of $1,163. Within Arizona, Benson's income is 21% below the state average of $62,086, and home values are 39% below the state median of $237,048.
Why Live in Benson, AZ?
Benson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $145,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $759/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,854) that falls below the national average. However, Benson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Benson has a population of 5,331 with a median age of 53.5 years. Compare Benson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Arizona.
Similar Cities Near Benson
Cities in Arizona with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thatcher | 5,354 | $77,455 | $274,400 | Compare |
| Guadalupe | 5,293 | $58,507 | $233,500 | Compare |
| Citrus Park | 5,136 | $136,653 | $659,700 | Compare |
| Cave Creek | 5,033 | $102,589 | $791,900 | Compare |
| Three Points | 5,033 | $53,083 | $147,900 | Compare |
| Kayenta | 5,651 | $60,925 | $37,900 | Compare |
| Bisbee | 4,963 | $46,689 | $209,600 | Compare |
| Paulden | 4,874 | $88,945 | $344,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Arizona
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Benson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Benson
What is the population of Benson, AZ?
The population of Benson, AZ is 5,331 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Arizona.
What is the median household income in Benson?
The median household income in Benson, AZ is $48,854 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Benson?
The median home value in Benson, AZ is $145,700, which is 41% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Benson?
The median monthly rent in Benson, AZ is $759, which is 35% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Benson?
The unemployment rate in Benson, AZ is 8.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Benson, AZ a good place to live?
Benson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 5,331 and a median age of 53.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Benson, AZ?
24.7% of residents in Benson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Benson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Benson, AZ: median home value is $145,700 (41% below national), median rent is $759/month, and median household income is $48,854. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Benson?
The poverty rate in Benson, AZ is 14.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Benson, AZ?
Benson's population is 14.0% White, 4.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 3.5% of residents are foreign-born.