Benton County
Welcome to Benton County! Find Your Place Here.
Located along the Mississippi River, Benton County real estate provides residents with everything from beautiful waterfront property away from it all to homes nestled in the city.
Home to communities including parts of St. Cloud, Sauk Rapids, Sartell, Foley, Rice, and more, there are numerous housing options to suit any taste. Not only that, but these vibrant communities offer everything from fun community events, both familiar and unique shopping and dining choices, and countless outdoor amenities. Find your new home now by viewing our listings of homes for sale in Benton County.
Recreation
Benton County provides countless recreational opportunities and amenities to its residents. From the seven designated county parks with beaches, picnic areas, playground equipment, athletic field and more, to multiple sports arenas, trails, and gardens, there’s never a dull moment in Benton County.
Shopping
Shopping in Benton County provides residents access to everything from clothing to tools to antiques. Larger commercial areas can be found in St. Cloud/Sauk Rapids and Foley, with numerous other retail venues throughout the county. Whether you’re looking for a new car, home goods, clothing, or gifts, there’s a perfect store nearby.
Dining
Hungry in Benton County? Whether you’re craving your favorite fast food, or want to try something new, you’ll find the perfect restaurant here. If you’re hungry for prime rib, stop by Molitor’s Quarry Grill & Bar in Sauk Rapids. Want something more exotic? Check out Somali Café in St. Cloud for fantastic Sambusa.
Green/Environmental
Benton County provides extensive resources for residents and businesses regarding sustainable practices. The County’s Guide to Green provides information and resources regarding everything from rebates and energy audits to alternative energy to conservation. With these resources, Benton County looks forward to a sustainable future.
Schools
The public and private school districts serving the residents of Benton County include the following:
Public-
- Foley Public Schools ISD 51
- St. Cloud Area School District ISD 742
- Sartell School District ISD 748
- Sauk Rapids/Rice School District ISD 47
Private-
- Petra Lutheran School
- St. Katharine Drexel School
- St. John Area School
- Sacred Heart Area School
- Trinity Lutheran Preschool
Transportation
The Tri-Cap Transit Connection provides public transportation services to the residents of Benton County, while the St. Cloud MTC Metro Bus offers transportation services to the cities of St. Cloud, Sartell, Sauk Rapids, and Waite Park. These services include scheduled bus routes as well as dial-a-ride services.
Local Government
The Benton County Board of Commissioners is a five-member board that provides oversight to all county budgets and activities. This group serves as the chief policymaking and legislative body for the county.
City History
Benton County was originally organized in 1849 when the Minnesota Territory was established. The county was 100 miles long and 40 miles wide until the current boundaries were established between 1856 and 1860. The County’s economy was largely based on agriculture, logging, and granite quarrying, though depleted supplies of lumber and granite have completely eradicated those industries today. More recently, industrial parks have been built within the county to bring more industry to the area. Today, the county is home to approximately 40,000 residents, and with an ever-expanding economy, the future looks bright.
