What to know when moving to Benson, NC
Benson, NC at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 22.5% of residents are renters and the median household income is $68,376.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $995, making it relatively affordable in Johnston County.
- The Reality Check:
- 16% of the population lives below the poverty line, which is a notable tradeoff.
- Commute:
- Only 0.8% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $995/month in rent, as that's the median gross rent in the area.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Benson has a total population of about 15,999, with a significant portion of the community holding a bachelor's degree or higher at 18.3%. The median home value stands at $217,400, which reflects a mix of owners and renters, with 22.5% of residents renting their homes. With an annual average of 102 rainy days, residents should plan for wet weather. The area also offers several parks for outdoor activities, making it a practical choice for those who enjoy nature.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for extensive public transit options, as only 0.8% of the population commutes by public transportation.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- The median household income is $68,376, which is reasonable for many.
- Median gross rent is $995, making it accessible compared to many nearby areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $217,400, providing options for homebuyers.
- Education level shows that 18.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
- The poverty rate is 16%, indicating some economic challenges in the community.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In North Carolina, the property crime rate is 1,780.6 per 100,000 residents, which is 15.1% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is 321 per 100,000, slightly lower than the national average of 325.3. Notably, the homicide rate has decreased by 23.2% since 2022, showing a positive trend in safety.
- Violent crime: 321 per 100,000 (vs national average of 325.3)
- Property crime: 1,780.6 per 100,000 (vs national average of 1,546.9)
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 23.2% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for North Carolina).
Schools & Higher Ed
In the nearby area, there are two postsecondary institutions available for residents.
- Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC
- Heritage Bible College in Dunn, NC
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Johnston County receives an average of 42 inches of precipitation annually, spread over 102 rainy days. The area experiences minimal snowfall, averaging just 0.6 inches per year and 3 snow days. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy several local parks.
- Jack Marley Park - 4.6 stars (1,245 reviews)
- Galot Motorsports Park - 4.7 stars (1,012 reviews)
- Animal Ed.ventures Sanctuary: Earth-Speak Park - 4.6 stars (845 reviews)
- Benson Dog Park - 4.6 stars (475 reviews)
- Cape Fear River Trail Park - 4.5 stars (394 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.