Welcome to Metro Little Rock: Benton
Located in the state’s geographic center on Interstate 30, just minutes from Little Rock, this city boasts a small-town atmosphere with a big-town population. Its prime location means a convenient commute to Little Rock or Hot Springs, although Benton has an attractive business climate for its 38,829 residents (according to World Population Review). The largest companies to work for in the small town are Saline Memorial Hospital, Arkansas Health Center Fed CU, Central Arkansas Development Council, Everett Automotive, ACDI and Rineco Chemical Industries.
Benton offers an array of housing options for young professionals, families and retirees. The median household income is $69,638. The average commute to work in downtown Little Rock is a mere 24 minutes. One of the area’s more prominent subdivisions, Longhills Village, offers residents a quiet and relatively private subdivision just minutes away from locally owned shops and restaurants. The newest developed area of the neighborhood is The Greens at Longhills, featuring premier apartments for affordable living on a beautiful golf course.
Downtown Benton has seen some serious growth in businesses and new restaurants over the past few years. The area’s growth has lured hip, new businesses like Revival :: restaurant + beer garden to set up shop alongside old favorites like Dale’s Donut Shop and Eat My Catfish — all spots you won’t want to miss in Benton. Rober Cocktails And Culinary is considered a hidden gem to locals and those passing through. With a high rating on Yelp and Google Reviews, customers are sure to come back to this upscale American cuisine.
BUC-EE’S is Coming to Town!
That’s right - the popular Southern gas station is treated with the same enthusiasm as a theme park, and it’s officially opening a new location in September 2026.
Benton Parks & Recreation Department
Aquatic Adventures
The River Center in Benton boasts an eight-lane competition pool outfitted with a climbing wall, diving board, water polo goals and basketball goals. The leisure pool was built with kids in mind. It features a child’s play area that includes an umbrella water feature and slides.