Benton County, Missouri
Income Data
U.S. Census Bureau ACSAt a Glance
Economic Indicators
How Benton County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Income Advisory: Benton County
Income Verdict
Benton County has a median household income of $52,200 and per capita income of $30,994 — a gap of $21,206, suggesting a higher share of single-earner or non-family households.
Housing Affordability
With median gross rent at $823/month and a median household income of $52,200, rent consumes approximately 18.9% of monthly income — well within affordable thresholds.
Economic Context
With a median household income of $52,200, residents of Benton County likely face budget constraints in higher-cost regions but may find cost of living manageable locally. Per capita income of $30,994 is in line with national norms for individual earners.
Neighbor Context
Benton County earns approximately 12.3% below the Missouri state median household income of $59,503.
Data Story
About Household Income in Benton County, Missouri
Benton significantly below national income
Benton County's median household income of $52,200 falls $22,555 short of the national median of $74,755. This substantial gap reflects a county economy with limited high-wage employment opportunities.
Lowest-earning in this analysis
At $52,200, Benton County's median household income ranks among the lowest in this eight-county study, trailing Missouri's state average of $59,503 by $7,303. The county faces economic challenges similar to Barton, with incomes well below state norms.
Below-average earner regionally
Benton's $52,200 median income ranks among the weakest in the region, exceeding only Barton County's $49,503. The county underperforms most neighbors, suggesting local job market limitations compared to surrounding areas.
Housing costs pressure budgets
Benton's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks second-highest in this analysis, approaching affordability stress for renters. The median home value of $164,700 consumes a substantial portion of household earnings, limiting discretionary savings for residents.
Benton households: prioritize foundations first
With income at $52,200, Benton residents must focus on budgeting and building emergency reserves before aggressive investing. Once housing costs are stabilized and savings cushions established, even modest contributions to retirement accounts will compound meaningfully over decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the Benton County median
County median: $52,200 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-12%
vs. National Median
-30%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($4,350) vs. median rent ($823/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.