Benson offers small-town living with a Main Street and rural roads
A small town of about 4,000 residents between Raleigh and Fayetteville, Benson has both a charming downtown and rural outskirts. The town was established around a railroad in 1887 as business owners were attracted to its prime location between two major cities. Designated as a Main Street Community, the town’s center promotes local businesses and hosts family-friendly events. Benson embraces its history of hard work by traveling back in time each year to celebrate Mule Days, an event that brings in 20,000 to 60,000 visitors. Today, this Johnston County community still attracts residents looking for proximity to the surrounding cities, and Interstate 95 and Interstate 40 make those commutes more manageable. “It’s a very commuter-friendly and accessible town,” says Rose Podgradski, a broker with Buy Homes with Rose LLC who has lived in Benson for a decade. “Main Street has some older homes with vintage charm, but there are a lot of new developments coming to Benson."
The Mary Duncan Public Library sits conveniently on Benson’s Main Street.
Benson has a rail road that runs through town.
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The annual Benson Mule Days entertains thousands of town visitors
The community has been coming together for more than 75 years to celebrate the annual Benson Mule Days, a four-day event in September that embraces the town’s rural past. “Mule Days is amazing. You just have to be comfortable with being country for a day,” Podgradski says. “From Thursday to Sunday, people come from all over the country on their horses or pull their horses behind on a trailer. I’ve talked to people who said it took them four days to get here on their horse and buggy. You’ll even see people at the Taco Bell drive-thru on their horses.” The event lineup includes a rodeo, a golf tournament, carnival rides, live music, and a parade, which Podgradski argues is the best part. “The parade is long, but it’s entertaining. The local Sudan Dunn Clowns do crazy things on horseback, and The Shriners are volunteers that drive in circles in little miniature racecars, raising money for kids in hospitals. Anyone who arrives on a horse can tag on at the end.”
Older bungalows line downtown and new Craftsmans dot the outskirts
Housing styles in Benson vary depending on their location. Ranch-style homes and bungalows near the town’s center are often older, many built in the 1950s, and offer classic elements like wide front porches, detached garages and colorful interior tiling. Ranch-style homes around the outskirts of town were typically built later in the ‘70s through ‘90s and offer more space. There are also newly constructed Craftsman homes on the south side of Benson with attached garages and nearly an acre of land. Home prices generally range from $175,000 to $315,000.
Buyers looking for something bigger can find 2,000- to 3,000-square-foot New Traditionals and Farmhouse Revivals further out in the countryside with two-car garages on more than an acre. Most of these two-story houses were either built or remodeled between 2020 and 2025 and go from $330,000 to upwards of $600,000.
Colorful bungalows line the residential streets of Benson.
Newer Benson homes showcase Craftsman-inspired details and modern amenities.
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Local boutiques, eateries and museums line Main Street
The downtown area along Main Street and the narrow, gridded streets that connect to it feature locally-owned shops and eateries. “Main Street is lined with antique shops and a lot of niche boutiques,” says Podgradski. “On the same road, Cornerstone Cafe is probably the most well-known eatery with coffee and sandwiches. And Fainting Goat Brewing Company does music bingo, as well as live music and food trucks.” Nearby, Sister’s II Ice Cream serves homemade ice cream. A few blocks from there at the other end of Main Street near Interstate 95, Daddy D’s BBQ is a family-owned Benson favorite. This retail-heavy area also features several takeout and fast-food spots, convenience markets and a Food Lion.
Main Street is also home to the Benson Museum of Local History, which explores the town’s agricultural past, baseball legacy and World War I history. “It’s a cool museum, and you can learn a lot there,” Podgradski says. She also mentions that there’s no shortage of churches in town, with the more historic institutions being on Church Street. Benson Baptist Church sits on the corner with Romanesque architecture and stained-glass windows, and Benson Methodist Church also stands tall on a corner lot with towering spires.
Morgan’s on Main is a popular boutique in Benson’s downtown shopping district.
Cornerstone Cafe & Coffee is Benson’s go-to breakfast and coffee spot on Main Street.
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Benson parks offer play areas and stage space for singing
Centrally located, Dr. PK Vyas MD Community Park is the town’s main park that features a playground, basketball courts, athletic fields and a running track. “Nearby, Benson Singing Grove has a stage where they do summer concerts, and behind the stage is a playground,” Podgradski says. The stage also hosts the State Annual Singing Convention, which brings thousands of people to Benson to listen to one of the oldest and largest gospel choir sings in the country. A couple of blocks away, Benson Community Swimming Pool offers a family-friendly way to cool off in the summer for a membership fee. East of town near the interstate, Benson Dog Park has fenced-in areas for small and large breeds.
Locals can catch a live music performance at Benson Singing Grove in the Summer.
Benson residents enjoy an active lifestyle at Dr. PK Vyas MD Community Park
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Students attend Johnston County public schools, including South HS
Johnston County Schools, graded a B-plus by Niche, serves students living in Benson. They can begin at Benson Elementary School, which receives a B, before progressing to Benson Middle School, which holds a B-minus. South Johnston High School, locally referred to as just South, receives a C-plus. South’s building was completed in 1969 to integrate the area’s former all-white and all-black public high schools.
Benson students start out at Benson Elementary School.
Benson Middle School has a B-minus rating on Niche.
Benson teens can attend South Johnston High School which is home of the Trojans.
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Commuters use the I-95 and I-40 junction as a pit stop
U.S. Route 301 cuts north-to-south through Benson, running parallel to Interstate 95. The interstate makes Fayetteville a 30-mile commute south. Just east of town, Interstate 95 meets Interstate 40, which can lead residents to Raleigh about 30 miles north. This interchange makes for a popular pit stop. “Benson gets a lot of people driving from New York to Florida,” Podgradski says. “It’s a good pull-off halfway.” According to data reported to FBI Crime Data Explorer, Benson has a slightly higher crime rate than the state and national averages.
Written By
Mary Beth Greene
Photography Contributed By
Dan Mack
Video By
Chris Norton
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rod Hudson,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Benson, NC sell after 83 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Benson, NC over the last 12 months is $362,400, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to 404 South Eastwood Drive in Benson, NC, located in the desirable Eastwood community. Built in 2024, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-full bath home offers approximately 1,372 square feet of comfortable and thoughtfully designed living space, along with a convenient one car garage. The open floor plan provides a natural flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making it
$20,000 SELLER CREDIT TO USE AS YOU CHOOSE PLUS ADDITIONAL LENDER INCENTIVE!!!!!!! Incredible opportunity to own over 5,300sqft of living space on 1.7 acres in the heart of downtown Benson! This truly unique property features a fully finished basement and attic, providing incredible flexibility for multi-generational living, entertaining, or hobby space.The main level welcomes you with an entry
ASK ABOUT $7,500 BUILDER CONCESSION!! USE AS YOU CHOOSE!! Experience peaceful country living with space to stretch out—welcome to Asher Pointe! This brand-new ranch home is situated on a full acre and features the Asher floor plan, offering 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and approximately 1,405 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. Step inside to an inviting open layout with a cozy gas log
Welcome home to this charming one-story residence featuring an open floor plan and a spacious kitchen perfect for everyday living and entertaining. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home sits on a large lot with a fenced backyard—ideal for pets, play, and outdoor gatherings. Conveniently located near the intersection of I-40 and I-95, you'll enjoy easy access to major routes while being just minutes from
This 3-bedroom, 2 full bath ranch home offers a solid layout and plenty of potential for buyers looking to add their own style and updates. With a little cleaning and cosmetic improvements, this home can truly shine. The property also features a private backyard, providing a peaceful outdoor space for relaxing or entertaining. A great opportunity for homeowners or investors looking to personalize
Landlord is a Real Estate AgentNo HOA, not in a subdivision, located in the Benson Meadow area. Lot is .694 acre. Please verify schools. Home completed renovated Dec. 2024. Kitchen with SS appliances, LVP flooring in all rooms. Large back deck, backyard with plenty of room to park large construction vehicles, boat, RV's.
Charming ranch home tucked away on 1.5 acres of privacy in a quiet cul-de-sac setting. Featuring 3 bedrooms & 2 baths, this home is surrounded by stunning hardwood trees and mature landscaping, creating a peaceful retreat. Enjoy outdoor living on the screened-in porch, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Additional features include and encapsulated crawlspace for improved efficiency, as well as a
''IMMACUTLATE'' 3 bedroom Ranch located on .92 acres with that Quiet Country feel yet Close commute to Raleigh and surrounding areas all within 8/10 of a mile from 40/95. Located in the well established community of ''Carrie Woods''. Beautifully manicured lot with blooming trees and over the top landscaping! Huge exterior carport/RV storage w/separate wired workshop. Home boast: Upgraded windows,
Welcome to 319 Lowery Lane in Benson--a beautifully maintained, one-owner home sitting on a spacious .58-acre lot. This thoughtfully designed property offers 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and a versatile flex room over the garage, perfect for a home office, guest suite, media room, or play space. Step inside to find a well-cared-for interior with a functional layout that provides both comfort and
Like-new 2020 ranch offers peaceful country living with no city taxes - yet just a short drive to Raleigh, Goldsboro, and Fayetteville.Designed for easy, everyday living, this single-level home features a bright, open floorplan with soaring cathedral ceiling that creates a spacious, airy feel.The modern kitchen shines with granite countertops, a large island, stainless steel appliances,
Buyers financing fell through! Appraised much higher than asking price. Beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch with 1,258 sq ft, conveniently located near the Hwy 40/210 intersection. This home features a desirable split bedroom floor plan, brand new luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh interior paint, and new landscaping for great curb appeal. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel
15.66 Acres with Dual Road Frontage Near I-95/I-40! Excellent opportunity in a prime location just minutes from I-95 and I-40, offering easy access for commuting or development. This 15.66-acre tract features approximately 986 feet of road frontage along both Hwy 242 and Woods Crossroads, providing outstanding accessibility and potential for multiple uses. Zoned Residential Agricultural, the
Bright and Beautiful first floor living with a 3 car garage on a large private cul de sac lot. Home fully wired for a generator. Tons of upscale quality cabinetry in kitchen and bathrooms. Chef style vent hood venting to the outside. Quartz counters and granite in bathrooms. Bonus room upstairs. Walk in Attic Space. Technology package with digital thermostats, security and exterior cameras Very
Rare opportunity to own 7.5 acres in Benson, just under 5 miles to I-95 for easy commuting while enjoying peaceful country living. This beautiful tract offers the perfect blend of open and wooded land, with approximately 4+ acres cleared and 3.5 acres wooded, ideal for privacy, recreation and a beautiful homesite. Bring your builder, animals, and vision! Create your dream home, establish a mini
Welcome to a RARE OPPORTUNITY for mini farm lovers and homesteaders alike! Situated on over 3 acres of usable land, this mini farm is thoughtfully set up for both equestrain living and country life--with NO HOA restrictions. The full brick ranch home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, featuring an open-concept layout designed for comfort and connection. The spacious living room flows into a
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Take a look at this beautiful home featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 1,347 square feet. Enjoy the freedom of a virtually maintenance free lifestyle while residing in a great community. This home is professionally managed and maintained by Tricon Residential.
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RENT BEFORE YOU BUY! RENT OR BUY! Welcome home to this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch situated on a .05-acre lot! This turnkey property is move-in ready and waiting for its new occupant.Step inside to an inviting open-concept floor plan featuring brand-new LVP flooring that adds both style and durability. The owner installed a water filtration system, giving you added comfort and peace of
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
Modern elegance has met comfort in this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom new construction townhome! This property promises a lifestyle of luxury and convenience. Step into the expansive kitchen boasting a generous island and breakfast bar, perfect for culinary adventures or casual dining moments. The open floor plan seamlessly connects each living space while a separate laundry room adds practicality to
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,260 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Modern elegance has met comfort in this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom new construction townhome! This property promises a lifestyle of luxury and convenience. Step into the expansive kitchen boasting a generous island and breakfast bar, perfect for culinary adventures or casual dining moments. The open floor plan seamlessly connects each living space while a separate laundry room adds practicality to
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,301 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.0 bathrooms, and approximately 2,272 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
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