Great Small Town to Retire Benson Arizona

In this series we will explore small towns that are really great places to retire!

Benson, Arizona

Benson is a safe small town to retire in Arizona that residents can easily manage for less than $2,300. Nestled amid breathtaking landscapes, it provides an ideal haven for outdoor lovers. The Karcher Caverns State Park is nearby and offers a lot of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The welcoming community ensures new friendships, along with easy access to healthcare. Just a friendly tip: the desert climate can get warm, so staying cool and hydrated is key. In Benzon, Arizona, retirees discover a haven where they can unwind and embark on new adventures.

Cost of Living Index:84.8
Average Monthly Rent: $995
Median Home Price:$234,436
Population: 5,355

Crime Rate: 3% Lower than the National Average

https://koa.com/campgrounds/benson

The city was founded in 1880 when the Southern Pacific Railroad came through. It was named after Judge William S. Benson, a friend of Charles Crocker, president of the Southern Pacific. The railroad, coming overland from California, chose the Benson site to cross the San Pedro River. Benson then served as a rail junction point to obtain ore and refined metal by wagon, in turn shipping rail freight back to the mines at Tombstone, Fairbank, Contention City and Bisbee. For example, the railhead in Benson was about 25 miles (40 km) from Tombstone, and was the closest rail connection to it until 1882, when a feeder line was laid from Benson to Contention City.

https://azstateparks.com/kartchner

Similar to other desert plains areas of Arizona, Benson receives little rainfall and is relatively hot. Some snow occasionally falls in the winter. There is a high degree of diurnal temperature variation, especially in transitional months such as October.