Benton, KY
Population 4,774 · Kentucky
About Benton, KY
Benton is a small town located in Kentucky with a population of 4,774 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $63,368 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.7 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 $159,600, which is 35% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Benton in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $839, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,248 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (1,630 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (457 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Benton shows an unemployment rate of 3.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Benton have an average one-way commute time of 25.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.1% 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 2.0% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.1% Asian residents, with 2.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Benton, KY
Compared to national averages, Benton has a median household income of $63,368 (16% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $159,600, which is 35% below the national median. Monthly rent at $839 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Benton's income is 4% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 13% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Benton, KY?
Benton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $159,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $839/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.6%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($63,368) 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 4,774 with a median age of 43.7 years. Compare Benton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Benton
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hendron | 4,840 | $64,777 | $197,900 | Compare |
| Columbia | 4,842 | $45,221 | $123,500 | Compare |
| Hurstbourne | 4,669 | $113,906 | $495,100 | Compare |
| Reidland | 4,887 | $83,764 | $214,600 | Compare |
| Massac | 4,937 | $75,103 | $215,000 | Compare |
| Prospect | 4,518 | $172,361 | $494,000 | Compare |
| Hazard | 5,105 | $68,582 | $146,100 | Compare |
| Greenville | 4,435 | $70,401 | $118,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kentucky
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, KY?
The population of Benton, KY is 4,774 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Kentucky.
What is the median household income in Benton?
The median household income in Benton, KY is $63,368 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Benton?
The median home value in Benton, KY is $159,600, which is 35% 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, KY is $839, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Benton?
The unemployment rate in Benton, KY is 3.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Benton, KY a good place to live?
Benton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 4,774 and a median age of 43.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Benton, KY?
19.1% 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, KY: median home value is $159,600 (35% below national), median rent is $839/month, and median household income is $63,368. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Benton?
The poverty rate in Benton, KY is 14.1%, 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, KY?
Benton's population is 2.0% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.1% Asian, and 2.1% two or more races. 2.5% of residents are foreign-born.