Though the city of Benton is in Central Arkansas, it was named for a Missouri politician. Thomas Hart Benton was an outspoken member of the Senate during the early 1800s. His speeches gained him recognition in the Midwest, and when Arkansas became a state in 1836, the city of Benton was formally chartered with his name. The city is sometimes incorrectly said to be named for Benton’s great-grandnephew of the same name, a 20th-century painter influenced by the Midwestern United States. Though untrue, the city of nearly 38,000 people does look like a place Benton would paint. The city's downtown area, comprising Market and South streets, has historic brick buildings and a mural telling the story of the city’s origins. “Benton has a small-town feeling,” says Tiffany Davis, an executive broker with Vylla Home. “During Christmas, it's like a Hallmark movie here.” Benton, a suburb of Little Rock, is the largest city in Saline County and serves as the county seat. Its population is up from around 31,000 in 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Walmart Inc., Saline Memorial Hospital and the Benton School District are among the county’s largest employers.
The historic district of downtown Benton, rich with history, food, and culture.
Historic downtown Benton, Arkansas is a time capsule into historical roots with good food.
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Ranch-style and Cape Cod homes for below-average prices
The city’s median home price is $250,000, lower than the national average. Contemporary and ranch-style homes are common. Salem, a rural census-designated place just northeast of Benton, has more expensive Cape Cod and ranch-style homes. Homes stay on the market for an average of 36 days. The city outlined a goal of making neighborhoods more pedestrian- and bike rider-friendly in its 2020 comprehensive plan.
Traditional, contemporary homes line the streets in many newer neighborhoods of Benton Arkansas.
A newly-constructed, ranch home in a subdivision of Benton, Arkansas.
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Interstate 30 takes residents to Little Rock
Interstate 30 runs through Benton and continues around 25 miles northeast to Little Rock. Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport, in Little Rock, has direct flights to 15 destinations. Within the city, the South Central Arkansas Transit program provides curb-to-curb transportation at a reduced rate. The city's Saline Memorial Hospital is a 177-bed community hospital.
The Benton School District is highly rated
The Benton School District has an A-minus grade from Niche. Debbie Orton, a Realtor with Crye-Leike Realtors, says the district is one of the main draws for new residents. The district serves nearly 6,000 students at seven schools. Benton High School, the district’s lone high school, has an individual A-minus grade.
Ringgold Elementary is one of several schools serving children and residents of Benton Arkansas.
Benton High School is a large, multi-faceted school in Benton Arkansas serving students.
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The Gann Museum of Saline County is famous for its bauxite
The 1996 Oscar-winning film “Sling Blade” was filmed entirely in the city over 24 days. Benton is also the birthplace of Grammy-winning country singer Charlie Rich and Cy Young Award-winning MLB pitcher Cliff Lee. The Gann Museum of Saline County is the only known structure in the world constructed entirely of bauxite, a rock with a high aluminum content that was once abundant in the region. Cody Berry, a special collections assistant at Gann, says the museum showcases Niloak pottery, which uses local kaolin clay and a signature swirling design, as well as exhibits on local history. The Royal Theatre has hosted live productions and shown movies since 1920. The Saline County Fair is held for five days in the city each year, with the theme changing annually.
Riverside park has playing fields, a community center, and amenities serving Benton Arkansas.
If you want to eat, shop, or see a movie, Hickory Square Shopping Center is Benton's place.
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Boutiques and restaurants in downtown Benton
The city’s downtown has several boutique shops and dining options. Garry’s Sling Blade Drive-In renamed itself after “Sling Blade” featured it in one of the film’s most-famous scenes. The restaurant, in southeast Benton, serves classic American diner food. Hurricane Creek Village is a planned shopping center off Interstate 30 anchored by Kroger Marketplace and Academy Sports.
Kroger brings fresh ingredients and groceries to the Benton area.
For a more casual meal grab a sandwich from Burger Shack in historic, downtown Benton Arkansas.
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Bluegill fishing in the Saline River
There are eight parks within the city’s limits. According to the Trust for Public Land, 15% of city residents live within a 10-minute walk of a green space. That is lower than the urban U.S. median of 55%. The 24-acre Tyndall Park has softball fields, tennis courts and a skate park. Riverside Park has a community center with pools and a gymnasium, plus a dog park and athletic fields. The Saline River cradles the city’s western edge and provides fishing spots where bass, bluegills and channel catfish are found.
Riverside park has playing fields, a community center, and amenities serving Benton Arkansas.
Tyndall Park has athletic fields, a skate park, and a massive splash pad in Benton.
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Tornadoes can touch down in Saline County
According to statistics from the Benton Police Department, violent crime rates have dropped in recent years, while property crime rates have increased. Both rates are higher than the national average, according to FBI crime data. Benton is in Arkansas’ tornado hot spot, and residents should be prepared to take shelter from storms. The city experiences four seasons, with muggy summers and wet winters.
Written By
Ryan Kohn
Photography Contributed By
Zachary Mirer
Video By
Adam Barkley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
LuAnn Campbell,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Benton, AR sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Benton, AR over the last 12 months is $232,500, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
If LUXURY WITHOUT LIMITS is what you've been searching for, stop scrolling now! This stunning modern estate offers the rare opportunity to enjoy a premier lakeside location with total independence, as it is uniquely exempt from all POA dues, restrictions, and special improvement taxes! Situated on a sprawling nearly half-acre lot directly across from the lake, this 3,500+SF contemporary
Experience lakefront living at its finest in Hurricane Lake Estates! This stunning 5 bedroom, 3.5 bath home offers breathtaking sunset views, direct lake access with private boat dock and an exceptional floor plan designed for comfort and entertaining. The main level features a spacious primary suite with beautiful lake views, fireplace and an oversized walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms and
Welcome to 1126 Oakview Cove, a charming 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering 1,260 sqft of comfortable living space in one of Benton’s most convenient locations. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac, this home is a great fit for first-time homebuyers, young families, or anyone looking to downsize into a low-maintenance home without giving up convenience. Inside, you'll find a functional floor plan that
DEPOT CREEK PRESERVE! City Convenience, Country Peace! At Depot Creek Preserve, you will find the best of both worlds: 15 acres of trails, creek side bridges, a peaceful KOI pond, (feel free to feed the fish while you are there) and abundant wildlife all just minutes from the city. This versatile property is ready for your vision- whether it is the perfect place for your dream home, event venue
Peace, tranquility and room to grow! This 3.15 acre property has beautiful trees and a winding creek just waiting for you to enjoy. Sit on the newly built deck and enjoy nature in your private oasis. The cozy home is tucked away from the road, surrounded by natural beauty and has all new appliances, flooring and paint. Bryant schools, short drive to Saline County shopping and a gorgeous back-road
This all brick home offers over 3,400 square feet of comfortable living space with room for everyone! Featuring 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this thoughtfully designed home combines generous living areas with a functional layout perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The main level features an inviting open floor plan with a huge formal dining room, a breakfast room, and additional space
Imagine coming home to a brand-new space designed for both comfort and connection, right in the heart of Benton. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers an open-concept layout that flows effortlessly, making everyday living and entertaining feel easy. Quartz countertops add a clean, modern touch throughout, while the private primary suite feels like a personal retreat with a walk-in closet, spa-style
Move-in ready in sought-after Hurricane Lake Estates! This beautiful 3 bedroom/2.5 bath home offers an open floor plan with gorgeous wood flooring throughout the main living areas, stunning woodwork, crown molding, and custom wood beams in the primary bedroom. Storage is abundant throughout the home! The spacious primary suite features double vanities, a private water closet, a huge tiled shower,
Welcome to this beautifully designed home in the heart of Benton! Situated on almost half an acre, this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers an impressive 2,364 square feet of comfortable living with a layout that’s perfect for entertaining. Step inside to a huge open floor plan featuring a warm and inviting hearth room with an electric fireplace, ideal for cozy evenings or gathering with
Welcome to 5415 Hwy 67—where the possibilities are endless and now with a new roof. This unique property offers over 10,000 sq ft under one roof, including 4,000+ sq ft of garage/shop space, a main residence, and a guest house connected by a large multi-use room with built-in bar. The main home features 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and extra-wide hallways and doorways for added
Come build your dream home on this perfect flat lot located in the heart of Benton. This lot has been cleared for you to come in and start building right away. It includes a tornado shelter and small storage shed to get you started. Call today with questions and don't miss out on this great property!
STUNNING HOME IN CUL-DE-SAC OF HURRICANE LAKE ESTATES! Inviting foyer opens to living room with fireplace and spacious dining area. Eat-in kitchen with a breakfast bar, Stainless Vent Hood, and a Walk-in Pantry. Private Primary Bedroom features hardwood floors, trey ceiling, and a walk-in closet. 2 BR down and 3 BR PLUS a Bonus room and huge storage closet upstairs. GORGEOUS covered back porch
Looking for a LAKE lot that is close to town, cleared, and ready to build on? Here it is! This lot is one of the few remaining lots in the gated phase of Hurricane Lake Estates-The Pointe. Don't miss the perfect canvas for your custom home build and have access to the wonderful amenities of Hurricane Lake Estates.
Welcome to 6521 Grayson Drive, a charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home tucked beneath mature trees in the Benton just behind Hurricane Lake. With approximately 1,167 square feet (measuring encouraged), this home offers a comfortable layout, spacious living areas, new carpet, refreshed interior paint, updated HVAC, electrical system, & water heater. The neutral finishes make it easy to move in and
Looking for a LAKE lot that is close to town, cleared, and ready to build on? Here it is! This lot is one of the few remaining lots in the gated phase of Hurricane Lake Estates-The Pointe. Don't miss the perfect canvas for your custom home build and have access to the wonderful amenities of Hurricane Lake Estates.
Revive Benton Apartments is a pet-friendly apartment community in Benton, Arkansas, offering spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes with modern features, resort-style amenities, and a convenient location near shopping, dining, and major employers.
Welcome to The Greens at Longhills! NOW LEASING New Apartments in Phase-II! We are centrally located in Benton and just minutes from restaurants, shopping and businesses. Private bedrooms and baths offer the optimum layout for singles, families, or roommates. Enjoy the convenience of a full-size washer and dryer in each apartment and full-size appliances in the kitchen including refrigerator with
Welcome to Fountain Lakes Apartment Community in Benton, Arkansas! Living in this beautifully developed apartment community provides everything you want right at home, in your own neighborhood. Fountain Lakes is conveniently located near restaurants, shopping and businesses near Congo Road and I-30. Whether your preference is upstairs with added views or downstairs for convenience, your spacious
Welcome to Dogwood Lakes Apartment Community in Benton, Arkansas! Living in this beautifully developed apartment community provides everything you want right at home, in your own neighborhood. Dogwood Lakes is conveniently located near restaurants, shopping and businesses near the Alcoa Exchange Plaza and I-30. Whether your preference is upstairs with added views or downstairs for convenience,
This home is move-in ready. Schedule your tour now or start your application today.Offering five bedrooms and a functional layout, this 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Benton, Arkansas provides comfortable living spaces with plenty of room for everyday living. An attached garage adds convenience, while the spacious backyard creates additional room to enjoy the outdoors.Inside, hard
This home is move-in ready. Schedule your tour now or start your application today.Welcome to 5813 Heritage Heights Drive, a 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering 1,792 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space in Benton. With fresh interior paint, attractive curb appeal, and a spacious single-story layout, this home provides the room and functionality to fit a variety of
Discover this beautifully updated home that perfectly blends modern flair with effortless, low-maintenance living. Nestled in a prime Benton neighborhood, this property offers an exceptional combination of style and everyday convenience.Proeprty Highlights: - Fully Equipped Kitchen: Comes complete with a refrigerator, electric stove, dishwasher, microwave, and garbage disposal.-
This beautifully refreshed home combines effortless modern style with everyday functionality in a highly desirable Benton neighborhood. Boasting an array of upgraded features and a complete appliance package, it is entirely move-in ready and waiting for you.Property highlights:- Full Kitchen Package: Fully equipped with a refrigerator, stove (electric), dishwasher, microwave, and
*SALINE COUNTY*NICE HOME AT END OF CUL-DE-SAC IN HERITAGE FARM SUBDIVISION!! This 3 Bedroom And 2 Bath Home Features Over 2100 Sqft! Includes Stove, Dishwasher, And Refrigerator Provided In Kitchen With Separate Dining Area! Carpet And Wood Flooring Throughout! Central Heat And Air! Washer And Dryer Hookups! Spacious Deck Overlooking Green Space Behind Home! 2 Car Garage For Parking! Storage Area
This home is move-in ready. Schedule your tour now or start your application today.Welcome to this inviting 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick home in Benton, AR, offering a comfortable layout and everyday convenience. With its classic exterior and attached two-car garage, this home provides timeless curb appeal along with added parking and storage.Step inside to discover a functional
Tour this charmingly refreshed 4-bedroom, 2-bath home on Drennon St in the Not In List subdivision of Benton. We are pet-friendly! Your dogs and cats are welcome at 1514 Drennon Street.Recently upgraded, this home has a contemporary, inviting atmosphere and comes fully-equipped with all modern amenities including whole-home Air Conditioning, a Dishwasher, an electric Stove and Oven, and a
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