Hot Spring County, AR
33,203 residents · 615 sq mi · 54.0/sq mi · 73% rural
About Hot Spring County
Hot Spring County, officially the County of Hot Spring, is a county located in the U.S. state of Arkansas. As of the 2020 census, the population was 33,040. The county seat is Malvern. Established on November 2, 1829, in the Arkansas Territory from a part of Clark County; it was named after the hot springs at Hot Springs, Arkansas, which were formerly in the county. The creation of Garland County in 1873 detached the town of Hot Springs to the newly created county.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 62.1°F and significant rainfall at 55.3 inches per year. The growing season is ample, supported by USDA zone 9a, making it suitable for a variety of crops. Terrain is primarily rural, which can facilitate self-sufficient living, though the population density of 54.0 people per square mile may limit some community resources. Access to water is generally good due to the humid classification, but careful management is essential.
Natural hazards in this region include ice storms (FEMA rank 93), lightning (86), and strong winds (82), which pose risks to infrastructure and safety. The county's violence percentile is notably high at 82/100, indicating potential safety concerns, while the disaster percentile at 56 suggests a moderate level of risk. Housing costs are relatively affordable, with a median home price of $119,600, but the effective property tax rate of 0.52% should also be considered for budgeting.
This county may suit those seeking a rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture and self-sufficiency, particularly individuals comfortable with the risks associated with natural hazards. However, the higher violence percentile may deter families or individuals prioritizing safety. A hidden gem for homesteaders could be the affordable housing market, but the potential for severe weather events is a dealbreaker for those unprepared to manage such risks.