Benton City, located in the heart of Washington State’s wine country, is a small yet vibrant community located in the scenic Yakima Valley. Situated in Benton County, the city is surrounded by rolling hills, fertile farmland, and beautiful vineyards, making it a haven for wine enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Benton City is affiliated with the United States and is part of the Pacific Northwest region. With a population of approximately 3,000 residents, Benton City maintains a close-knit community atmosphere while offering a range of amenities and services to its residents and visitors. From its world-renowned wineries and agricultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, Benton City invites individuals to discover the beauty and charm of Eastern Washington.
Geographical Overview
Benton City is located in southeastern Washington State, approximately 200 miles southeast of Seattle and 20 miles west of the city of Richland. The city is situated in the Yakima Valley, known for its fertile soil and ideal climate for grape growing, making it a prominent wine-producing region in the United States. The landscape surrounding Benton City is characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, orchards, and the nearby Yakima River, offering residents and visitors stunning vistas and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.
Population
Benton City is home to approximately 3,000 residents, comprising a diverse community of individuals from various backgrounds and walks of life. The city’s population reflects its rich agricultural heritage, with many residents involved in the wine industry or local farming activities. Despite its small size, Benton City boasts a strong sense of community and camaraderie, with residents actively participating in local events, festivals, and civic activities throughout the year.
Major Landmarks
- Red Mountain AVA: Benton City is located in close proximity to the Red Mountain American Viticultural Area (AVA), one of Washington State’s most renowned wine-growing regions. The AVA is home to numerous wineries and vineyards, producing world-class wines that have gained international acclaim.
- Yakima River: The Yakima River flows near Benton City, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The scenic river corridor provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
- Kiona Vineyards and Winery: Established in 1975, Kiona Vineyards and Winery is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in Benton City. Known for its award-winning wines and stunning hilltop location, Kiona offers tastings, tours, and events for wine enthusiasts.
Climate and Weather Overview
Benton City experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, relatively wet winters. The region receives minimal precipitation and enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, making it an ideal location for agriculture, particularly grape growing. The climate is influenced by the Cascade Mountain Range to the west, which acts as a barrier to moisture-laden air from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in a rain shadow effect east of the mountains.
Average Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) | Average Sunny Days |
| January | 36.1 | 1.19 | 15 |
| February | 41.4 | 0.92 | 16 |
| March | 50.7 | 1.07 | 19 |
| April | 59.8 | 0.68 | 21 |
| May | 68.8 | 0.82 | 24 |
| June | 76.9 | 0.63 | 27 |
| July | 85.1 | 0.30 | 30 |
| August | 84.7 | 0.30 | 29 |
| September | 76.1 | 0.43 | 25 |
| October | 62.9 | 0.68 | 22 |
| November | 47.3 | 1.10 | 17 |
| December | 37.3 | 1.20 | 15 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Benton City is cold and often snowy, with average temperatures around 36.1°F. The month sees an average precipitation of 1.19 inches, primarily in the form of snow, and 15 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities during this month may include skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing in nearby mountain areas. Residents and visitors can also enjoy indoor activities such as wine tasting, visiting local art galleries, and attending community events to stay warm during the winter months.
February
February brings continued cold temperatures to Benton City, with average temperatures around 41.4°F. The month sees a decrease in precipitation compared to January, with an average of 0.92 inches, and 16 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include winter hiking, birdwatching, and photography in the scenic countryside surrounding the city. Indoor activities such as cooking classes, craft workshops, and live performances offer opportunities for residents and visitors to stay entertained during the winter season.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Benton City, with temperatures beginning to warm up and signs of new growth emerging. The average temperature is around 50.7°F, with an average precipitation of 1.07 inches and 19 sunny days on average. Outdoor activities may include hiking, biking, and picnicking in local parks and nature reserves as the landscape comes to life with blooming flowers and budding trees. March also offers opportunities for wine tasting, visiting farmers’ markets, and attending spring festivals to celebrate the changing season.
April
April in Benton City brings milder temperatures and increasing sunshine, with an average temperature of 59.8°F and 0.68 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 21 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and birdwatching in the surrounding countryside, or explore local wineries and vineyards for tastings and tours. April also offers opportunities for gardening, outdoor dining, and attending cultural events to welcome the arrival of spring.
May
May heralds the arrival of warmer temperatures and abundant sunshine in Benton City, with an average temperature of 68.8°F and 0.82 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 24 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wine tasting in the scenic Yakima Valley, or take leisurely drives along the wine trails. May also offers opportunities for attending outdoor concerts, art festivals, and farmers’ markets to celebrate the beauty of spring.
June
June in Benton City is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging 76.9°F and 0.63 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 27 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and wine tasting in the vineyards and orchards surrounding the city, or take scenic drives through the beautiful countryside. June also offers opportunities for attending outdoor festivals, concerts, and wine events, as well as camping, barbecues, and stargazing under the clear summer skies.
July
July is the peak of summer in Benton City, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 85.1°F and 0.30 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 30 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor fun. Residents and visitors can cool off with a swim in the Yakima River, relax in the shade of a vineyard, or enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. July also offers opportunities for attending Fourth of July celebrations, outdoor concerts, and wine festivals, as well as camping, picnicking, and stargazing under the summer sky.
August
In August, summer continues in full swing in Benton City, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, averaging 84.7°F and 0.30 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 29 sunny days on average, providing perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and wine tasting in the scenic Yakima Valley, or take leisurely drives through the countryside. August also offers opportunities for attending outdoor concerts, food festivals, and cultural events, as well as camping, barbecues, and stargazing under the summer sky.
September
September brings mild temperatures and decreasing precipitation to Benton City, with an average temperature of 76.1°F and 0.43 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 25 sunny days on average, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and wine tasting in the cooler temperatures of early fall, or take scenic drives to admire the changing foliage. September also offers opportunities for attending harvest festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor concerts, as well as apple picking, pumpkin patches, and hayrides to celebrate the bounty of the season.
October
October in Benton City is characterized by cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, with an average temperature of 62.9°F and 0.68 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 22 sunny days on average, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and leaf-peeping in the scenic Yakima Valley, or explore local pumpkin patches and corn mazes. October also offers opportunities for attending fall festivals, wine tastings, and Halloween events, as well as scenic drives and photography outings to capture the beauty of autumn.
November
November marks the transition to winter in Benton City, with cooler temperatures and increasing precipitation, averaging 47.3°F and 1.10 inches respectively. The month sees 17 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities before the arrival of winter weather. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography in the surrounding countryside, or take scenic drives to admire the changing landscape. November also offers opportunities for Thanksgiving celebrations, holiday markets, and craft fairs, as well as indoor activities such as cooking classes, art workshops, and holiday concerts to prepare for the festive season ahead.
December
December in Benton City is cold and often snowy, with an average temperature of 37.3°F and 1.20 inches of precipitation on average. The month sees 15 sunny days on average, providing opportunities for outdoor activities before the arrival of winter weather. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in nearby mountain areas, or take scenic walks through town to admire the festive holiday lights and decorations. December also offers opportunities for holiday shopping, visits with Santa Claus, and seasonal events such as tree lighting ceremonies, holiday concerts, and Christmas markets to spread joy and cheer throughout the community.