Home Value
$93,800
67% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
10.2%
70% lower than US avg
Median Rent
$495
57% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
50.1%
56% higher than US avg
Unemployment
13.7%
281% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
31.9%
157% higher than US avg
How Benoit Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population572
Median Age34.8 yrs
Density590/mi²
Male / Female44% / 56%
Largest GroupWhite 41%
Veterans1.2%
Economy
Per Capita$23,701
Unemployment13.7%
Poverty31.9%
County GDP$724M
Commute38 min
Housing
Home Value$93,800
Rent$495
Ownership70.3%
Zillow$172,048
Housing Units205
Rent Burden45.6%
Health
Obesity50.1%
Uninsured14.0%
Smoking23.5%
Depression19.5%
Heart Disease8.3%
Climate
Avg Temp64°F (18°C)
Rain49.0 in/yr
Elevation140 ft (43 m)
Education
D
Bachelor's+10.2%
High School+79.8%
Graduate+4.1%
School Score4.42
Community
2024 VoteR 52% / D 47%
Commute38 min
Broadband71.3%
EV Stations3
Libraries2
Is Benoit a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Benoit receives an overall livability score of 1.8 out of 5.0, earning a grade of D. Key strengths include affordable housing. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate, a high uninsured rate. Benoit faces significant challenges across several quality-of-life categories.
Economy & Jobs
At 13.7%, unemployment is notably high. The poverty rate of 31.9% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 38 minutes, longer than the typical American commute of 28 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Benoit is $93,800, 67% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $495 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability.
Education
10.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 79.8% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 4.4/10.
Climate & Weather
Benoit enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F. Winters average 44°F in January while summers reach 82°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 49.0 inches.
Benoit has a population of 572 with a density of 590 people per square mile, spread across 1.0 square miles. The median age is 34.8 years, 11% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 56.1% female and 43.9% male. The city is predominantly Black (57.2%), with 41.3% White, 2.1% Hispanic. English is the primary language spoken at home by 99.3% of residents. 1.2% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 10.3% of residents have a disability (below the 13.0% national average). 86.0% have health insurance coverage.
Population
572
Total Population
2023 Census
34.8yrs
Median Age
11% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
99.3%
26% above US avg
Spanish
0.6%
96% below US avg
Per capita income is $23,701 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $911, 36% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 13.7% (above the 3.6% US average). 31.9% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 433 business establishments, including 27 restaurants. The cost of living index is 87, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 38 minutes (longer than the 28-minute US average). 3.8% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| |
| Per Capita Income | $23,701 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $911 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $49,214 |
| Gini Index | 0.455 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 13.7% |
| 281% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 31.9% |
| 157% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 433 |
| County GDP | $724M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 27 |
| Healthcare | 22 |
| Retail | 51 |
| Manufacturing | 12 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $2,092 |
| 40% below US avg |
| Cost of Living | 87.00 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 2.23% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 37.9 min |
| Drive Alone | 75.8% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 3.8% |
The median home value in Benoit is $93,800, 67% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $172,048, higher than the Census estimate. Monthly rent averages $495 (57% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $782 for a one-bedroom to $924 for a two-bedroom apartment. 70.3% of housing units are owner-occupied. There are 205 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1961. The average annual property tax is $2,092 (lower than the $3,500 national average). 45.6% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing, indicating a significant affordability challenge for renters.
Home Values
| Census Median | $93,800 |
| 67% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $172,048 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $495 |
| 57% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 45.6% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $751 |
| 1 Bedroom | $782 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $924 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,177 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,295 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 70.3% |
| Owner-Occupied | 70.3% |
| Renter-Occupied | 29.7% |
| Housing Units | 205 |
| Median Year Built | 1961 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $2,092 |
| 40% below US avg |
| Effective Rate | 2.23% |
In Benoit, 50.1% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 20.0% have diabetes (above the 10.5% national rate). Heart disease affects 8.3% of residents, above the national average. 51.9% have high blood pressure. 23.5% are current smokers (above the 14.0% national rate). 10.5% report binge drinking. 46.3% are physically inactive, above the national average. 19.5% report depression. 21.3% experience frequent mental distress. 14.0% of residents lack health insurance (above the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:2,218. The dentist ratio is 1:3,590. 60.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 5.2 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Benoit vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 50.1% |
| 56% above US avg |
| Diabetes | 20.0% |
| Heart Disease | 8.3% |
| High Blood Pressure | 51.9% |
| Asthma | 12.0% |
| COPD | 10.8% |
| Cancer | 5.4% |
| Stroke | 6.0% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 23.5% |
| 68% above US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 10.5% |
| Physical Inactivity | 46.3% |
| Depression | 19.5% |
| Mental Distress | 21.3% |
| Physical Distress | 17.8% |
| Short Sleep | 43.3% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 86.0% |
| Uninsured | 14.0% |
| 63% above US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:2,218 |
| Dentists | 1:3,590 |
| Mental Health | 1:1,497 |
| Checkup Rate | 83.7% |
| Dental Visits | 4.8% |
| Premature Death | 15,390/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 5.2/10 |
| Exercise Access | 60.2% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 22 |
Benoit enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F (18°C). Winters average 44°F in January while summers reach 82°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 49.0 inches (wetter than the 38-inch national average). The city sits at an elevation of 140 feet.
Temperature
44°F Jan (7°C)
82°F Jul (28°C)
| Annual Average | 64.0°F |
| 19% above US avg |
| January Average | 44°F (7°C) |
| July Average | 82°F (28°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 140 ft (43 m) |
| Area | 1.0 sq mi (2.6 km²) |
| Population Density | 590/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 33.6516°N, 91.0087°W |
| Timezone | America/Chicago |
| County | Desha County County |
| Nearest Airport | Pinebluff Regional/Grider Field (PBF)
64 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
49.0"
29% above US avg
Wettest Month (Dec)
5.10"
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Very Low |
| Risk Score | 32.9 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 98.0 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 53.2 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Low |
| Hurricane |
Relatively Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Very Low |
| Hail |
Relatively Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Low |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Winter Weather |
Very Low |
| Lightning |
Very Low |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Low |
| Drought |
Relatively Moderate |
| Cold Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Landslide |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
14 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.7. Most recent: M3.7 on Jan 8, 2019.
| Jan 8, 2019 |
8 km WNW of Hollandale, Mississippi |
M3.7 |
51 km |
| May 3, 2015 |
7 km SSW of Canton, Mississippi |
M3.2 |
150 km |
| Jun 29, 2015 |
6 km SSW of Canton, Mississippi |
M3.2 |
149 km |
| Aug 11, 1996 |
9 km WSW of Shaw, Mississippi |
M3.1 |
15 km |
| Oct 26, 2002 |
3 km SE of Alligator, Mississippi |
M3.1 |
54 km |
| May 3, 2015 |
8 km WSW of Canton, Mississippi |
M3.0 |
146 km |
| Aug 11, 2002 |
8 km ESE of Darling, Mississippi |
M2.8 |
108 km |
| Feb 25, 1999 |
10 km NE of Oakland, Mississippi |
M2.8 |
119 km |
| Feb 11, 1991 |
10 km SSW of Clarksdale, Mississippi |
M2.7 |
63 km |
| Oct 18, 2009 |
9 km SE of Redfield, Arkansas |
M2.6 |
130 km |
| Apr 11, 1996 |
9 km ENE of Biscoe, Arkansas |
M2.6 |
137 km |
| Aug 17, 2015 |
9 km N of Madison, Mississippi |
M2.6 |
149 km |
| Jan 12, 2017 |
9 km E of Leola, Arkansas |
M2.6 |
149 km |
| Oct 20, 1999 |
8 km NE of Clarendon, Arkansas |
M2.5 |
125 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Hurricane History
2 hurricanes (Cat 1+) within 500 km since 1980.
Strongest: Category 1. Most recent: Laura (2020, Cat 1).
| Year |
Name |
Category |
Closest |
| 2020 |
Laura |
Category 2 |
268 km |
| 2005 |
Katrina |
Category 1 |
246 km |
Source: NOAA IBTrACS (Cat 1+, 1980-2026)
Tornado History
459 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 52 fatalities, 735 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Mar 24, 2023 |
EF4 |
90 km |
17 |
| Nov 24, 2001 |
EF4 |
22 km |
0 |
| Mar 9, 1992 |
EF4 |
68 km |
0 |
| Apr 17, 1978 |
EF4 |
20 km |
0 |
| Apr 3, 1968 |
EF4 |
83 km |
5 |
| Mar 24, 2023 |
EF3 |
98 km |
3 |
| Dec 23, 2015 |
EF3 |
48 km |
2 |
| Feb 24, 2007 |
EF3 |
69 km |
0 |
| Nov 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
59 km |
0 |
| Feb 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
82 km |
0 |
| Feb 24, 2001 |
EF3 |
39 km |
0 |
| May 2, 1997 |
EF3 |
90 km |
0 |
| Dec 21, 1990 |
EF3 |
99 km |
0 |
| Nov 19, 1988 |
EF3 |
52 km |
0 |
| Apr 8, 1979 |
EF3 |
92 km |
0 |
| Apr 24, 1976 |
EF3 |
76 km |
0 |
| Mar 20, 1976 |
EF3 |
80 km |
0 |
| Nov 24, 1973 |
EF3 |
75 km |
0 |
| Nov 20, 1973 |
EF3 |
89 km |
0 |
| Apr 21, 1972 |
EF3 |
65 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950-2024)
Wildfire History
4 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: UNNAMED (4,134 ac, 2006).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2006 |
UNNAMED |
4,134 |
89 km |
| 2012 |
LACEY |
1,439 |
85 km |
| 2010 |
DREW |
1,283 |
63 km |
| 2013 |
FOUNTAIN HILL |
655 |
89 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
44°F (7°C) |
4.5 in |
Coldest |
| February |
48°F (9°C) |
4.7 in |
|
| March |
56°F (13°C) |
4.7 in |
|
| April |
64°F (18°C) |
5.0 in |
|
| May |
73°F (23°C) |
3.8 in |
|
| June |
79°F (26°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| July |
82°F (28°C) |
3.2 in |
Warmest |
| August |
82°F (28°C) |
2.8 in |
Driest |
| September |
76°F (24°C) |
3.6 in |
|
| October |
65°F (18°C) |
4.2 in |
|
| November |
54°F (12°C) |
4.0 in |
|
| December |
46°F (8°C) |
5.1 in |
Wettest |
Benoit has a seasonal temperature swing of 38°F / from 44°F in January to 82°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 49.0 inches, with December being the wettest month (5.1") and August the driest (2.8").
Average costs for common services in Benoit. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$218 ($131-$348) |
| Specialist Visit |
$305 ($174-$479) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$174 ($87-$305) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$1,914 ($696-$4,350) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$113 ($65-$174) |
| Dental Filling |
$218 ($131-$348) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$39 ($22-$65) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$65 ($44-$104) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$261 ($131-$435) |
| Tire Rotation |
$35 ($17-$65) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$522 ($348-$870) |
| Battery Replacement |
$174 ($87-$305) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$87 ($52-$131) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$78 ($44-$122) |
| HVAC Repair |
$348 ($131-$696) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,090 ($3,480-$10,440) |
| Roof Repair |
$870 ($348-$1,740) |
| Roof Replacement |
$7,830 ($4,785-$13,050) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,305 ($435-$3,045) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$13,050 ($4,350-$26,100) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,350 ($1,740-$8,700) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,305 ($696-$2,610) |
| Will Preparation |
$435 ($174-$870) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,175 ($870-$4,350) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$22 ($13-$39) |
| Women's Haircut |
$48 ($26-$87) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$131 ($65-$218) |
| Manicure |
$22 ($13-$39) |
| Pedicure |
$35 ($22-$57) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$70 ($44-$113) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.57 ($2.61-$4.79) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.05 ($2.18-$4.35) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.31 ($2.18-$4.79) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$3.92 ($2.61-$5.66) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$4.79 ($3.48-$6.53) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.87 ($0.52-$1.57) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$122 ($70-$218) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$61 ($26-$131) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$61 ($35-$104) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$61 ($35-$87) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$57 ($26-$87) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$74 ($44-$131) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$174 ($65-$435) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,740 ($1,044-$3,045) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$61 ($26-$113) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$13 ($6.96-$22) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$87 ($26-$218) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$26 ($13-$65) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,044 ($522-$2,175) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$870 ($435-$1,740) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$348 ($174-$609) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$44 ($22-$87) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$870 ($348-$2,175) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$10,875 ($4,350-$26,100) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$52 ($26-$87) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$87 ($44-$174) |
| Dog Grooming |
$52 ($26-$87) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$35 ($17-$65) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$261 ($131-$435) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$174 ($87-$348) |
View all 9 services
Frequently Asked Questions About Benoit
What is the population of Benoit?
Benoit has a population of 572 residents and is located in Mississippi. The population density is 590 people per square mile, spread across 1.0 square miles. The median age of residents is 34.8 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 56.1% female and 43.9% male.
Is Benoit expensive to live in?
Benoit is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 87 / below the baseline of 100. The median home value is $93,800 (67% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $495 per month, below the national average of $1,163.
What is the weather like in Benoit?
Benoit enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 64°F (18°C). Winter temperatures average 44°F in January, while summers reach an average of 82°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 49.0 inches.
How is the job market in Benoit?
The job market in Benoit faces challenges, with unemployment at 13.7% / significantly above the national rate of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $911. There are 433 business establishments in the area, including 27 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 38 minutes, and 3.8% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Benoit?
The median home value in Benoit is $93,800. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $172,048. For renters, the median monthly rent is $495. Fair market rent is $782 for a 1-bedroom and $924 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 70.3%. The average annual property tax is $2,092.
How are the schools in Benoit?
Schools in Benoit have an average test score of 4.4 out of 10, below typical national benchmarks. Families may want to research individual school ratings. 10.2% of adults in Benoit hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 79.8% have completed high school. 4.1% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Benoit?
The obesity rate in Benoit is 50.1% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 23.5% of adults are smokers. 46.3% are physically inactive. 19.5% of residents report depression. 14.0% lack health insurance (above the national rate). 60.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:2,218.
What is transportation like in Benoit?
The average commute in Benoit is 38 minutes, longer than the national average of 28 minutes. 75.8% of workers drive alone to work, and 3.8% work from home.
What are the demographics of Benoit?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Benoit is 41.3% White, 57.2% Black or African American, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino. 99.3% of residents speak only English at home. 1.2% of the population are military veterans. 10.3% of residents have a disability. 86.0% have health insurance coverage.