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San Benito, TX

Frequently asked questions

San Benito, TX

San Benito is a city in Cameron County, Texas, United States. Its population was 24,250 at the 2010 census. On April 3, 2007, San Benito celebrated the 100th anniversary of its naming. 

The post office was named "Diaz" from April to May 1907. The San Benito Museum, Freddy Fender Museum, and Conjunto Music Museum opened in the same building on November 17, 2007. 

On October 25, 1975, on the television show Hee Haw, Freddy Fender saluted his hometown of San Benito, population 15,177. San Benito is part of the Brownsville–Harlingen–Raymondville and the Matamoros–Brownsville metropolitan areas.

San Benito is located west of the center of Cameron County at 26°8′12″N 97°38′9″W (26.136603, –97.635878). Interstate 69E passes through the city, leading northwest 6 miles (10 km) to Harlingen and southeast 19 miles (31 km) to Brownsville. 

According to the United States Census Bureau, San Benito has a total area of 16.1 square miles (41.8 km2), of which 0.3 square miles (0.9 km2), or 2.12%, is covered by water. San Benito is also known as "The Resaca City", due to its resaca (a former tributary of the Rio Grande, which has been cut off for irrigation purposes).

San Benito is known as the "Resaca City". The Resaca de los Fresnos, 400 ft (120 m) wide, flows through the city. As indicated by its Spanish name, the resaca is a dry river bed. It is now the main canal of a large irrigation system. San Benito was at first named "Diaz" in honor of Porfirio Díaz, President of Mexico at that time. The people in the San Benito area were predominantly of Mexican ancestry. The Anglo settlers came after the completion of the first irrigation system in 1906. Before that time, this region was an arid, mesquite- and cactus-covered wilderness. Irrigation water touched off crop production, supported by the railroad.

San Benito's commitment to health and wellness is evident through various community initiatives and facilities. The emphasis on health is further reinforced by the presence of the Valley Baptist Medical Center, ensuring quality healthcare services for the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the San Benito Recreation and Community Services Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Bodyfuel Fitness, CrossFit, and Jordan Ranch. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around San Benito, such as the Heavin Resaca Trail and the San Benito Veterans Memorial Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in San Benito, TX include Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, Gladys Porter Zoo, and South Padre Island Birding And Nature Center.

Population: 24,000 (2021). Elevation: 30 ft (9 m). Area: 16.13 sq mi (41.79 km2). ZIP Code: 78586. Area code: 956.

FAQs

What is the crime rate in San Benito, TX?

The crime rate in San Benito is considerably higher than the national average across all communities in America from the largest to the smallest, although at 22 crimes per one thousand residents, it is not among the communities with the very highest crime rate. The chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime in San Benito is 1 in 45. Based on FBI crime data, San Benito is not one of the safest communities in America. Relative to Texas, San Benito has a crime rate that is higher than 80% of the state's cities and towns of all sizes.

What is the poverty rate in San Benito, TX?

In 2022, the median household income of San Benito households was $38,100. San Benito households made slightly more than Rosebud households ($38,036) and Alto households ($37,955). However, 25.1% of San Benito families live in poverty.

Why is San Benito, TX called San Benito?

The name San Benito was concocted by Rafael Moreno, an employee of Hicks. Moreno combined the given names of Robertson (Sam or "San") and Hicks (Benny), whom he called "Don Benito." A post office was established in 1907 under the name San Benito. The first meeting of the city council was held on July 27, 1911.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of San Benito

Valley Baptist Medical Center

San Benito Recreation and Community Services Department

Bodyfuel Fitness

CrossFit

Jordan Ranch

Heavin Resaca Trail

San Benito Veterans Memorial Park

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

Gladys Porter Zoo

South Padre Island Birding And Nature Center

Neighborhoodscout

Texas Demographics

Tshaonline.org

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