Benson, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,282
3.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$67,102/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,093
9.2% year-over-year change

Benson population

How many people live in Benson

Benson is home to 4,282 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Benson locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
4,282
3.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
2,158
Female
49.6%
2,124
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,158 50.4% 19.8%
Female 2,124 49.6% -9.3%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Benson is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.6% are children under 15, then 7.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.1% of the population, while another 18.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.6%
15 to 24
7.6%
25 to 44
34.1%
45 to 64
18.6%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 881 20.6% -6.6%
15 to 24 327 7.6% 3.5%
25 to 44 1,461 34.1% 19.4%
45 to 64 797 18.6% -4.0%
Over 65 816 19.1% -1.8%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Benson, 94.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 16.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
2.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,056 94.7% 8.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 109 2.6% 53.5%
Non-citizens 117 2.7% -63.7%
Racial breakdown
White
64.1%
Black or African American
18.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
16.6%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 2,745 64.1%
Black or African American 807 18.8%
Two or more races 713 16.6%
Other 17 0.4%

Households in Benson

A peek inside Benson households

Benson has 1,767 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.6% are families, while the remaining 39.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,767
14.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
696
Family households
1,071
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 696 39.4% 51.0%
Family households 1,071 60.6% -1.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Benson

The housing landscape of Benson

Benson's housing consists of 2,093 units, with 68.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,093
9.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,441 68.8%
1 unit, attached 152 7.3%
2 units 50 2.4%
3 or 4 units 169 8.1%
5 to 9 units 113 5.4%
10 to 19 units 21 1%
20 to 49 units 65 3.1%
50 or more units 42 2%
Mobile home 40 1.9%
Homes built since 2020
56
700.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Benson

In Benson, the median construction year is 1988. About 9.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 21.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 204 9.8% -38.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 80 3.8% 0.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 196 9.4% 4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 111 5.3% -16.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 287 13.7% 4.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 217 10.4% -5.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 129 6.2% 134.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 443 21.2% 12.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 370 17.7% 66.7%
Built in 2020 or later 56 2.7% 700.0%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Benson occupancy rates

Out of the 1,767 occupied housing units in Benson, 54.6% are owner-occupied, while 45.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,767
14.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
802
Owner occupied
965
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 802 45.4% 9.6%
Owner occupied 965 54.6% 18.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Benson housing costs

Housing costs in Benson come to a median of $1,123 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,097.

Median housing costs per month
$1,123/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Benson
$1,097/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Benson

Benson education at a glance

About 39% of the population in Benson went to high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 78 2.4% -63.2%
High school diploma 1,267 39% -1.9%
College diploma 704 21.6% -3.8%
Associate degree 279 8.6% 40.2%
Bachelor's degree 694 21.3% 48.9%
Graduate degree 231 7.1% 71.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Benson

How much people earn in Benson

The average annual household income in Benson was $78,981 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +12% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $67,102, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Benson
$78,981/year
12.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Benson
$67,102/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Benson income by age

In Benson, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,393. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,800 overall. Overall, 85.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $68,393 11.8%
45 - 64 $76,800 N/A
Over 65 $44,539 -36.6%
Above poverty level
3,532
Below poverty level
598
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,532 85.5% 29.8%
Below poverty level 598 14.5% -54.9%

Average renter income in Benson

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Benson, their median household income was $37,625 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,625
Rent-to-income ratio
35%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Benson

Workforce and job types in Benson

The job market in Benson is powered by 1,885 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13% run their own businesses, 61.1% are employed by private companies, and 13.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,885
10.7% year-over-year change
White collar
1,364
Blue collar
521
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,364 72.4% 4.4%
Blue collar 521 27.6% 31.2%
Employer type
Self employees
13%
Private companies
61.1%
Governmental workers
13.2%
Not for profit companies
12.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 245 13% 16.7%
Private companies 1,152 61.1% 5.5%
Governmental workers 249 13.2% 83.1%
Not for profit companies 239 12.7% -9.8%
Unemployment rate
2.9%
-69.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Benson stands at 2.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Benson

How people get around in Benson

In Benson, the average commute time is 29 minutes.

Commute time
29 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,532 80.6% 10.7%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Benson by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
27504 17,079 6,980 $66,724 $88,434

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FAQs about Benson demographics 

What is the total population of Benson?

Benson has a total population of 4,282 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +3.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Benson?

The gender ratio in Benson is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (2,158 residents)
  • 49.6% females (2,124 residents)

What is the median age in Benson?

The median age in Benson is 35.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Benson?

The age distribution in Benson is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.6% (881 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.6% (327 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.1% (1,461 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.6% (797 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (816 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Benson?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Benson is as follows:
  • White: 64.1% (2,745 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18.8% (807 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16.6% (713 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (17 residents)

What percentage of the population in Benson are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.7% of the population in Benson.

How many housing units are there in Benson?

There are 2,093 housing units in Benson, reflecting a +9.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Benson and what is the average household size?

Benson has a total of 1,767 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Benson?

Benson has a median household income of $67,102, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Benson?

The employment rate is 97.1% in Benson, with a workforce of 1,885 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.4% (1,364 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.6% (521 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13% (245 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.1% (1,152 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.2% (249 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.7% (239 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025