Benton, IL
Population 7,076 · Illinois
About Benton, IL
Benton is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 7,076 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $51,349 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.2 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 Benton features a median home value of $85,100, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Benton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $776, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,488 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (1,895 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (1,118 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Benton shows an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 17.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Benton have an average one-way commute time of 22.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.5% of Benton residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 3.3% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 2.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Benton, IL
Compared to national averages, Benton has a median household income of $51,349 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $85,100, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $776 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Benton's income is 32% below the state average of $75,072, and home values are 49% below the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Benton, IL?
Benton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $85,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $776/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,349) that falls below the national average. However, Benton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Benton has a population of 7,076 with a median age of 42.2 years. Compare Benton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Benton
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University Park | 7,109 | $65,580 | $137,800 | Compare |
| Sandwich | 7,121 | $77,027 | $239,600 | Compare |
| Marengo | 7,123 | $72,586 | $206,100 | Compare |
| Clinton | 7,012 | $55,960 | $101,200 | Compare |
| Robinson | 7,005 | $67,591 | $102,600 | Compare |
| West Frankfort | 7,156 | $48,143 | $72,500 | Compare |
| Greenville | 7,159 | $52,727 | $119,800 | Compare |
| Stickney | 6,957 | $67,307 | $236,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Benton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Benton
What is the population of Benton, IL?
The population of Benton, IL is 7,076 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Benton?
The median household income in Benton, IL is $51,349 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Benton?
The median home value in Benton, IL is $85,100, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Benton?
The median monthly rent in Benton, IL is $776, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Benton?
The unemployment rate in Benton, IL is 2.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Benton, IL a good place to live?
Benton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 7,076 and a median age of 42.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Benton, IL?
18.5% of residents in Benton 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 Benton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Benton, IL: median home value is $85,100 (65% below national), median rent is $776/month, and median household income is $51,349. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Benton?
The poverty rate in Benton, IL is 17.9%, 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 Benton, IL?
Benton's population is 3.3% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 2.0% of residents are foreign-born.