Jeff Davis County, GA
14,889 residents · 331 sq mi · 45.0/sq mi · 67% rural
About Jeff Davis County
Jeff Davis County is a county located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 14,779. The county seat is Hazlehurst. The county was created on August 18, 1905, and named for Jefferson Davis, the only Confederate president.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 66.3°F and about 46.7 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is relatively long due to the USDA zone 9b classification, which supports a variety of crops. The terrain is predominantly rural, with 67% of the land being unpopulated, allowing for more space and privacy. However, the high summer temperatures, peaking at 92.7°F, may require careful planning for water resources and cooling methods.
The county faces several natural hazards, with hurricanes ranked as a notable risk at FEMA rank 84. Drought and tornado risks are also significant, with ranks of 69 and 51, respectively. While the area has a moderate violence percentile of 39, indicating a lower safety risk compared to many places, the overall disaster percentile of 28 suggests a higher vulnerability to natural calamities. Additionally, median home prices are relatively low at $106,800, but the local economy, reflected by a median household income of $41,780, may limit economic opportunities.
This area may be suitable for individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with ample space for self-sufficiency, particularly those comfortable with the risks of natural disasters and a lower economic setting. Homesteaders looking for a strong community or advanced infrastructure might find this county lacking. The dealbreaker for some may be the hurricane risk, while others may appreciate the affordability and potential for agricultural endeavors in this humid climate.