Benson, NC
Population 4,144 · North Carolina
About Benson, NC
Benson is a small town located in North Carolina with a population of 4,144 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,614 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Benson features a median home value of $176,000, which is 28% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Benson in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $978, 16% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,916 total housing units, 53% are owner-occupied (818 units) and 47% are renter-occupied (732 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 9.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 32.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Benson have an average one-way commute time of 24.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
20.8% of Benson 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 21.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 8.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Benson, NC
Compared to national averages, Benson has a median household income of $65,614 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $176,000, which is 28% below the national median. Monthly rent at $978 is 16% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Carolina, Benson's income is 2% above the state average of $64,468, and home values are 23% below the state median of $228,922.
Why Live in Benson, NC?
Benson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $176,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $978/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,614) 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 4,144 with a median age of 35 years. Compare Benson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Carolina.
Similar Cities Near Benson
Cities in North Carolina with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southport | 4,143 | $82,792 | $394,900 | Compare |
| Surf City | 4,160 | $84,833 | $478,600 | Compare |
| Wingate | 4,169 | $65,208 | $217,700 | Compare |
| Forest Oaks | 4,095 | $108,250 | $294,400 | Compare |
| Trent Woods | 4,086 | $109,097 | $294,200 | Compare |
| Mount Olive | 4,204 | $45,869 | $117,200 | Compare |
| Franklin | 4,221 | $43,991 | $190,600 | Compare |
| Spindale | 4,244 | $38,509 | $130,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in North Carolina
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, NC?
The population of Benson, NC is 4,144 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in North Carolina.
What is the median household income in Benson?
The median household income in Benson, NC is $65,614 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Benson?
The median home value in Benson, NC is $176,000, which is 28% 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, NC is $978, which is 16% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Benson?
The unemployment rate in Benson, NC is 9.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Benson, NC a good place to live?
Benson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,144 and a median age of 35, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Benson, NC?
20.8% 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, NC: median home value is $176,000 (28% below national), median rent is $978/month, and median household income is $65,614. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Benson?
The poverty rate in Benson, NC is 32.9%, 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 Benson, NC?
Benson's population is 21.8% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 35.4% two or more races. 8.9% of residents are foreign-born.