Hunt & Live

Webster County, GA

2,328 residents · 210 sq mi · 11.1/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
64.8°F
51.3" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.5
Hardiness
Zone 9b
Winter low ~26.1°F

About Webster County

Webster County is a county located in the west central portion of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census reflected a population of 2,348, making it the third-least populous county in Georgia. The county seat is Preston.

66
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #681 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a predominantly rural experience, characterized by a low population density of 11.1 people per square mile. The climate is generally mild, with an annual mean temperature of 64.8°F and ample rainfall of 51.3 inches per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 9b. However, the region's water classification as humid suggests good water availability, which is a strength for self-sufficient living.

The county faces notable risks, particularly from drought (FEMA rank 82) and hurricanes (FEMA rank 64), which could impact agricultural endeavors and overall safety. With a violence percentile of 68/100, there may be concerns regarding safety, though it is important to note that the county's disaster percentile is quite low at 2/100, indicating fewer overall hazards. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low with a median home price of $77,100, but economic opportunities might be limited given the median household income of $35,000.

This county may be a good fit for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency, particularly individuals experienced in agriculture and disaster preparedness. However, those who prioritize urban amenities or higher income opportunities might find it lacking. A potential dealbreaker for homesteaders could be the risk of drought and hurricanes, while the low housing costs and rural setting could be considered hidden gems for others looking to settle in a less populated area.

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

Key Facts

Top 14% nationally
National prepper rank: #425 of 3,109.
#3 in GA
Top 5 counties in Georgia out of 159.
Dominant hazard: drought
FEMA ranks drought risk at 82/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Sparse population
11.1 people per square mile — well below the CONUS average.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 64.8°F annual mean and 51.3" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $77,100.

Score Breakdown

Violence
82
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
2
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
19
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
2.4
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 5
Drought 82
Earthquake 22
Hail 17
Hurricane 64
Heat Wave 19
Riverine Flood 3
Ice Storm 3
Landslide 8
Lightning 13
Strong Wind 9
Tornado 18
Wildfire 29
Winter Weather 2

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
91.3°F
Winter low
36.1°F
Heating degree days
2,174
Cooling degree days
2,127

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$77,100
Median HH income
$35,000
Price to income
2.2×
Property tax rate
1.29%
~$994/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
42.6
Homeownership
81.5%
Poverty rate
27.9%
Unemployment
8.9%

Connectivity

Broadband households
33.1%
No internet access
28.1%

Explore Webster 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.