St. Clair County, AL
93,932 residents · 632 sq mi · 148.7/sq mi · 67% rural
About St. Clair County
St. Clair County is a county located in the central portion of the U.S. state of Alabama. As of the 2020 census, the population was 91,103. It has two county seats: Ashville and Pell City. It is one of two counties in Alabama, and one of 33 in the United States, with more than one county seat. Its name is in honor of General Arthur St. Clair, an officer in the French and Indian War. St. Clair County is included in the Birmingham metropolitan area.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with a population density of 148.7 people per square mile and 67% of the land classified as rural. The climate is humid, with an annual mean temperature of 62.0°F and an average annual rainfall of 56.5 inches, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 9a. However, the potential for tornadoes and flooding should be considered when planning for self-sufficiency.
Natural hazards pose significant risks in this region, with tornadoes ranked at a FEMA hazard score of 92, indicating a high likelihood of occurrence. Other notable risks include landslides (85), riverine flooding (76), and earthquakes (75). The area's violence percentile is 66, suggesting some concerns regarding safety, while the cost of living is moderate with a median home price of $202,000 and a low effective property tax rate of 0.30%.
This county may be suitable for those who prioritize rural living and have experience with natural disaster preparedness, particularly for tornadoes. Homesteaders looking for a community with access to urban amenities may find it appealing, but those who prefer a more stable climate and lower risk of severe weather might want to consider other locations. The hidden gem here is the affordable housing market, which could enable new homesteaders to establish a sustainable lifestyle.