San Bernardino County, CA
2,193,656 residents · 20,068 sq mi · 109.3/sq mi · 5% rural
About San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County, officially the County of San Bernardino, is located in the southern portion of the U.S. state of California, and is located within the Inland Empire area. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 2,181,654, making it the fifth-most populous county in California and the 14th-most populous in the United States. The county seat is San Bernardino.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a unique blend of terrain and climate. The annual mean temperature is 66.9°F, making it relatively mild, but with only 6.6 inches of rainfall per year, it is classified as hyper-arid. The growing season is potentially long due to the warm climate, but water scarcity may pose significant challenges for self-sufficient living. With a population density of 109.3 people per square mile, there are rural pockets, but overall, the area is quite populated, which may impact the sense of remoteness.
This county faces considerable risks, with a disaster percentile of 100/100 indicating a high likelihood of natural hazards. The leading threats include wildfire, landslide, earthquake, riverine flood, and heat waves, all of which could severely affect homesteading efforts. Additionally, with a violence percentile of 18/100, safety may be a concern in certain areas. The median home price of $438,000 could also be a barrier for those looking to establish a homestead on a budget.
This area may be a good fit for experienced preppers or homesteaders who can navigate the challenges of water scarcity and natural hazards. Those with the financial means to invest in property and the skills to manage a self-sufficient lifestyle may thrive here. However, individuals seeking a low-risk environment or those unprepared for the realities of hyper-arid living and potential disasters may find this county less suitable for their needs.