Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Benton, IL
Considering a move to Benton, IL? This welcoming small city of about 6,700 offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $88,000 and average rents near $700. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 19 minutes, plenty of sunny days, and access to local schools and healthcare. Benton’s crime rates are moderate for the region, and the community features a relaxed pace, affordable housing, and a friendly Midwestern atmosphere—ideal for those seeking comfort and value.
Demographics - Benton, IL
Demographics - Benton, IL
Benton, Illinois is home to approximately 6,700 residents, with a median age of 42.2 years and a population density of 1,400 people per square mile. The city is predominantly White, and there is a balanced gender ratio, making it a close-knit and stable community. While most residents speak English, a small percentage of the population speaks other languages at home.
Population:
6,700
Density:
1,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Benton, IL?
The cost of living in Benton is notably affordable, with a median house value around $88,000 and average monthly rent about $685. Utilities and groceries are also budget-friendly, and Illinois’ flat state income tax keeps expenses predictable. Benton’s overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an appealing option for those seeking value.
Median House Value:
$88,000
Gross Rent:
$685
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$385
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.6
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
45.8
Utilities:
95.7
Transportation:
86.4
Health Care:
95.2
Miscellaneous:
88.0
Crime
Is Benton, IL a safe place to live?
Benton experiences moderate crime rates for its size, with a chance of violent crime at about 1 in 290 and a chance of property crime at 1 in 46. While some crime exists, most residents feel secure in their neighborhoods. Local law enforcement and community engagement contribute to maintaining a generally safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
345
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,180
Crime Index:
2,525
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 290
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in Benton, IL year-round?
Benton has four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers with highs near 88°F and chilly winters averaging lows around 23°F. The city enjoys approximately 62% sunny days annually and receives about 44 inches of rainfall each year. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of sunshine and seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Benton’s residents have a median household income of about $44,200 and a family income near $55,700, with a poverty rate of 19.4%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the typical commute time is under 20 minutes. The community is friendly and close-knit, with a relaxed pace and a strong sense of local pride.
Median Income:
$26,600
Household Income:
$44,200
Family Income:
$55,700
Per Capita Income:
$22,100
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$24,400
Poverty Rate:
19.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.2%
Rent:
$685
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
19.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.5%
Bachelors or More:
17.3%
Education
How are the schools in Benton, IL?
Benton offers several public and private school options, including Benton Consolidated High School and Benton Grade School, both known for manageable class sizes. Families also benefit from nearby Rend Lake College, just nine miles away, which provides higher education opportunities. The city’s educational environment is supportive and accessible, making it a good place for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Benton Consolidated High School
Street:
511 E Main St
Phone:
618-439-3103
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Benton Grade School
Street:
1000 Forest St
Phone:
618-438-7181
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
Immanuel Lutheran School
Street:
1915 Pine St
Phone:
618-439-2014
Students:
80
Colleges
Name:
Rend Lake College
City:
Ina
State:
IL
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
2,100
Healthcare
Benton provides access to quality healthcare through facilities like Benton Community Health Center and Franklin Hospital, both offering emergency services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% of people insured, medical care is accessible and reliable. Services cover a range of needs, from routine checkups to emergency care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Benton Community Health Center
Address:
1410 S Main St, Benton, IL 62812
Phone:
(618) 439-3564
Type:
Community Health
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Franklin Hospital
Address:
201 Bailey Ln, Benton, IL 62812
Phone:
(618) 435-9700
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Benton, IL?
Benton’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $88,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $700. About 65% of homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates are moderate, making it easy to find both rental and purchase options. The area has seen steady home appreciation, making it an attractive choice for homeowners.
Median Home Price:
$88,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Benton can access DMV services at the Illinois Secretary of State Facility located on Main Street. The local office provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services. Information and resources are available online through the Illinois Secretary of State website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State Facility
Address:
601 W Main St, Benton, IL 62812
Phone:
1-800-252-8980
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.