Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Benson, AZ
Thinking of relocating to Benson, AZ? This small community of 5,355 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $198,000 and average rents at $975. Enjoy sunny weather nearly 80% of the year, a relaxed average commute of just under 20 minutes, and a crime rate that's low for violent offenses but higher for property crimes. Benson features solid local healthcare, friendly neighborhoods, and access to Cochise College—making it a great fit for those looking for an easy-going, budget-friendly lifestyle in Arizona's scenic high desert.
Demographics - Benson, AZ
Demographics - Benson, AZ
Benson, AZ is a small city with a population of 5,355 and a median age of 53.7, reflecting a mature community. The population is predominantly White, with a moderate percentage of non-English speakers and a balanced gender ratio. Residents enjoy a low-density, relaxed environment ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
5,355
Density:
330 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.7
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.2%
Black:
1.1%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
21.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Benson, AZ?
Benson offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $198,000 and average rents around $975. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are below national averages, and Arizona's state taxes remain relatively low. The overall cost of living index is 88.1, making Benson an economical choice for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$198,000
Gross Rent:
$975
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,035
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$335
State Taxes:
Low:
2.59%
|
High:
4.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.1
Grocery:
94.6
Housing:
72.8
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
92.5
Health Care:
92.8
Miscellaneous:
97.6
Crime
Is Benson, AZ a safe place to live?
Benson experiences a low violent crime rate of 176 incidents per 100,000 residents, but property crime is higher, with a 1 in 41 chance of occurrence. Residents generally feel safe, especially from violent offenses, though securing property is recommended. This safety profile appeals to those seeking peace of mind in a small-town setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
176
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,410
Crime Index:
2,586
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 568
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 41
Weather
What is the weather like in Benson, AZ year-round?
Residents enjoy abundant sunshine 80% of the year, with mild winters and hot summers typical of Arizona's high desert. Average temperatures range from 34°F in winter to highs near 98°F in summer, and annual rainfall is modest at 13.5 inches. The pleasant climate supports year-round outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
63°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
98°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
80%
Neighbors
Benson's community has a median household income of $46,900 and a family income of $57,200, with a poverty rate of 15.2%. Most adults have completed high school, and the unemployment rate sits at 4.8%. The area is known for its friendly atmosphere and short average commutes of about 20 minutes.
Median Income:
$34,800
Household Income:
$46,900
Family Income:
$57,200
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
15.2%
Non English Speakers:
11.4%
Rent:
$975
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
19.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.1%
Bachelors or More:
19.4%
Education
How are the schools in Benson, AZ?
Benson offers quality public education with small school sizes and student-teacher ratios around 18:1. The city is home to a local Cochise College campus, while the University of Arizona in Tucson is just 45 miles away. These options provide accessible learning opportunities, from early childhood through higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
Benson High School
Street:
360 S Patagonia St
Phone:
520-720-6840
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Name:
Benson Primary School
Street:
360 S Patagonia St
Phone:
520-720-6860
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Colleges
Name:
Cochise College – Benson Center
City:
Benson
State:
AZ
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
300
Name:
University of Arizona
City:
Tucson
State:
AZ
Distance:
45 miles
Students:
47,000
Healthcare
Benson is served by Benson Hospital, a critical access facility offering emergency care, and the city has about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents. Health insurance coverage is high at nearly 87%, providing peace of mind for families and retirees. The local healthcare index suggests generally accessible and reliable services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Benson Hospital
Address:
450 S Ocotillo Ave, Benson, AZ 85602
Phone:
(520) 586-2261
Type:
Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.9%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Benson, AZ?
The Benson housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $198,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of 75.5%. Rental vacancies are moderate, and home values have seen a healthy appreciation of 4.7% over the past year. This makes Benson attractive for both buyers and renters looking for long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$198,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$975
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can conveniently access DMV services at the Arizona Department of Transportation office located on S. Dragoon St. in Benson. The office provides essential vehicle and licensing services for the city and surrounding area. Additional information and resources are available through the Arizona DOT website.
State:
Arizona
Department:
Arizona Department of Transportation – Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
595 S. Dragoon St., Benson, AZ 85602
Phone:
1-800-251-5866
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.