Benton is the county seat of Saline County, located in central Arkansas, approximately 25 miles (40 km) southwest of Little Rock.
It lies at the intersection of I-30 and US-67/167, within the Little Rock–North Little Rock–Conway Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city is nestled near the Ouachita Mountains to the northwest and the Saline River to the southeast, offering access to outdoor recreation (fishing, hiking, camping) while maintaining suburban convenience.
Population: ~35,000 (2020 census). Known for historic downtown, annual BBQ cook-off, and growing retail/healthcare sectors.