Hunt & Live

Morgan County, GA

21,031 residents · 347 sq mi · 60.5/sq mi · 77% rural

Climate
62.4°F
48.8" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.53
Hardiness
Zone 9a
Winter low ~22.8°F

About Morgan County

Morgan County is a county located in the north central Piedmont region and the lake country region of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,097. The county seat is Madison.

47
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1698 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

The county features a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with a population density of 60.5 people per square mile, allowing for ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is generally mild, with an annual mean temperature of 62.4°F and 48.8 inches of rainfall per year. This supports a diverse growing season, suitable for various crops in USDA zone 9a. However, the area’s humid climate may present challenges for certain types of agriculture without proper water management.

Natural hazards pose some risks in this area, with hurricanes and droughts both ranked at 57 on the FEMA scale. Earthquakes, ice storms, and hail are also notable concerns, though they carry slightly lower risks. The county's violence percentile is 62, indicating a moderate level of crime, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing safety. The median home price of $293,300 may be a barrier for some, especially in a rural setting.

This county may appeal to those seeking a semi-rural lifestyle with a decent climate for growing food. Individuals or families with some financial resources and a focus on sustainability may thrive here. However, those who prioritize absolute safety from natural disasters or who seek a lower cost of living might find the county less suitable. The balance of rural charm and moderate risks is a key factor for potential homesteaders.

AI-generated analysis based on county data (climate, hazards, density, housing, economy). For general orientation only.

Key Facts

Ranked #1,333 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#55 of 159 in GA
Ranked #55 of 159 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: hurricane
FEMA ranks hurricane risk at 57/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
60.5 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 62.4°F annual mean and 48.8" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9a.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $293,300.

Score Breakdown

Violence
81
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
19
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
59
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
19.4
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 15
Drought 57
Earthquake 52
Hail 41
Hurricane 57
Heat Wave 37
Riverine Flood 38
Ice Storm 48
Landslide 14
Lightning 26
Strong Wind 33
Tornado 39
Wildfire 38
Winter Weather 6

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
91.2°F
Winter low
32.8°F
Heating degree days
2,735
Cooling degree days
1,823

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$293,300
Median HH income
$81,524
Price to income
3.6×
Property tax rate
0.82%
~$2,396/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
43.1
Homeownership
74.3%
Poverty rate
8.6%
Unemployment
2.9%

Connectivity

Broadband households
52.1%
No internet access
12.7%

Explore Morgan County Further

Similar Counties

Data sources. Prepper scores are national percentile ranks of firearm fatalities (County Health Rankings 2024 / CDC WONDER), FEMA National Risk Index 2023 composite disaster score, and population density (ACS 2022 + TIGER 2022 land area). Climate from NOAA nClimDiv 1991–2020 normals. Hardiness zone is estimated from climate data and may differ from the official USDA PHZM. Demographics and housing from Census ACS 5-year 2022. All scores are for comparison purposes only and do not constitute advice about where to live.