Hunt & Live

Wayne County, GA

30,896 residents · 642 sq mi · 48.1/sq mi · 58% rural

Climate
67.2°F
49" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.32
Hardiness
Zone 9b
Winter low ~28.9°F

About Wayne County

Wayne County is a county located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 30,144. The county seat is Jesup.

44
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1946 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 67.2°F and ample rainfall at 49 inches per year. The growing season is favorable for a variety of crops, supported by USDA zone 9b. The terrain is primarily rural, with a population density of 48.1 people per square mile, which allows for a degree of remoteness and space for self-sufficient living. However, water resources may require careful management due to the region's humid classification.

The county faces notable natural hazards, including a high risk of hurricanes, ranked 89 by FEMA, as well as significant risks from earthquakes and wildfires. The violence percentile is moderate at 64, indicating a higher risk compared to safer areas, while the disaster percentile at 44 suggests a balanced risk profile. The median home price of $142,200 is relatively affordable, but the cost of living may vary, impacting budget-conscious homesteaders.

This area may be a good fit for those seeking a rural lifestyle with a warm climate and a strong agricultural potential. Individuals who thrive in self-sufficient living and can manage the risks associated with hurricanes and other natural hazards are likely to find this county appealing. However, those who prioritize safety and wish to avoid potential violence or disaster risks may find it less suitable for their needs.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #1,789 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#80 of 159 in GA
Ranked #80 of 159 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: hurricane
FEMA ranks hurricane risk at 89/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
48.1 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 67.2°F annual mean and 49.0" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $142,200.

Score Breakdown

Violence
72
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
45
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
52
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
44.6
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Coastal Flood 20
Cold Wave 52
Drought 42
Earthquake 64
Hail 25
Hurricane 89
Heat Wave 55
Riverine Flood 30
Ice Storm 41
Landslide 13
Lightning 51
Strong Wind 27
Tornado 53
Wildfire 62
Winter Weather 7

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
93.2°F
Winter low
38.9°F
Heating degree days
1,693
Cooling degree days
2,522

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$142,200
Median HH income
$49,847
Price to income
2.9×
Property tax rate
0.82%
~$1,168/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
38.7
Homeownership
64.4%
Poverty rate
18.2%
Unemployment
6.1%

Connectivity

Broadband households
55.8%
No internet access
14.2%

Explore Wayne 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.