Benton County
countyBenton County, located in west-central Missouri, is a predominantly rural county known for its outdoor recreational opportunities and scenic beauty. The county had a population of 19,394 in the 2020 Census, and an estimated 20,614 residents in 2024. Warsaw serves as the county seat, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history and heritage. Benton County's economy is supported by agriculture, tourism, and trade. The presence of Truman Lake and the Osage Arm of Lake of the Ozarks makes it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities. Key employment sectors include healthcare, construction, and retail. What makes Benton County distinctive is its blend of natural attractions and historical significance. The area boasts rolling hills, dense forests, and vast prairies, providing a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The county's history dates back to the early 1800s, with the Osage Indians inhabiting the Osage River valley. Benton County offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
Benton County, Missouri
- Classification
- County
- FIPS Code
- 29015
- Country
- United States
- County
- Benton County
- Region
- West Central Missouri
- Total Area
- 753 sq mi
- Land Area
- 704 sq mi
- Water Area
- 48 sq mi
- Latitude
- 38.2959
- Longitude
- -93.2171
- Climate
- Benton County experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique nature and wildlife viewing experiences.
- Notable Features
- Truman Lake · Osage River · Pomme de Terre River · Grand River
- Neighboring Areas
- Pettis County · Morgan County · Camden County · Hickory County · St. Clair County · Henry County
- Population (2020)
- 19,394
- Est. Population (2024)
- 20,614
- Median Age
- 54.4
- Median Income
- $52,200
- Poverty Rate
- 19.87%
- Family Households
- 65.4%
- Owner-Occupied
- 83.7%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- In 2023, the racial makeup of Benton County was 92.4% White (Non-Hispanic), 2.07% Two Races Excluding Other, & Three or More Races (Non-Hispanic), 1.32% Two Races Including Other (Non-Hispanic), 0.915% Two Races Including Other (Hispanic), and 0.895% Black or African American (Non-Hispanic).
- Government Type
- County Commission
- Governing Body
- County Commission
- Body Size
- 3 members
- Municipal Services
- County Clerk · Recorder · Assessor · Collector · Treasurer · Prosecuting Attorney · Public Administrator · Circuit Clerk · Sheriff
- Unemployment Rate
- 4.3%
- Economic Profile
- Agriculture · Tourism · Trade
- Employment Sectors
- Health Care & Social Assistance · Construction · Retail Trade
- Schools
- 10
- Students
- 2,801
- School Districts
- Cole Camp R-I School District · Lincoln R-II School District · Warsaw R-IX School District
- Colleges & Universities
- State Fair Community College (nearby)
- Transportation
- US Highway 65 · Missouri Route 7 · Missouri Route 83
- Utilities
- Osage Valley Electric Cooperative
- Major Facilities
- Benton County Courthouse
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Truman Lake · Harry S. Truman State Park · Drake Harbor · Shawnee Bend Park
- Parks & Trails
- Warsaw Riverfront Trails · Truman Lake Mountain Bike Park · Berry Bend Equestrian Park
- Founded
- 1835
- Named After
- U.S. Senator Thomas Hart Benton of Missouri
- Historical Significance
- Benton County provides a window into American history, from prehistoric times to modern dam construction.
- Key Events
- Osage Indians inhabited the Osage River valley in the early 1800s. · Warsaw declared county seat in 1835. · Construction of Truman Dam for flood control.