Bond County, IL
16,566 residents · 380 sq mi · 43.6/sq mi · 60% rural
About Bond County
Bond County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. As of the 2020 census, the population was 16,725. Its county seat is Greenville.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and agricultural potential, with a population density of 43.6 people per square mile and 60% of the land classified as rural. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 54.8°F and an average of 42.7 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops. The USDA zone 8a further indicates a favorable environment for gardening and self-sufficient living, though the humid conditions may require careful water management.
However, there are several risks to consider. The county faces a notable earthquake risk, ranked 86 by FEMA, which could pose significant challenges for infrastructure and safety. Other hazards include tornadoes (ranked 58) and heat waves (ranked 66), which could impact both living conditions and agricultural outputs. Additionally, while the violence percentile at 17 suggests a lower risk of crime, the overall disaster percentile of 36 indicates a moderately hazardous environment that prospective residents should evaluate carefully.
This county may suit individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with access to agricultural opportunities, especially those with experience in disaster preparedness. However, those unaccustomed to potential natural hazards or who require robust broadband connectivity—only 52% of households have subscriptions—might find it challenging. A hidden gem for some could be the reasonable housing market, with a median home price of $130,300, but the risks associated with earthquakes and severe weather may be a dealbreaker for others.