Hunt & Live

Schuyler County, IL

6,746 residents · 437 sq mi · 15.4/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
52.5°F
38.9" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.57
Hardiness
Zone 7b
Winter low ~7.8°F

About Schuyler County

Schuyler County is a county in the U.S. state of Illinois. According to the 2020 census, it had a population of 6,902. Its county seat is Rushville.

69
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #539 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a predominantly rural experience with a low population density of 15.4 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 52.5°F and receives about 38.9 inches of rainfall each year, making it suitable for a variety of crops during the growing season. The USDA zone 7b classification indicates a favorable environment for gardening, while the humid conditions can support diverse agricultural activities. However, the area’s terrain may pose challenges for certain types of farming or livestock operations.

Natural hazards present some risks for residents, with landslide risk ranked at 79 and drought at 62 according to FEMA data. Additionally, strong winds, cold waves, and hail pose potential threats, with respective rankings of 62, 61, and 58. The area has a relatively low violence percentile of 17, indicating a safer environment, but those considering this location should remain aware of the physical risks associated with the climate and geography. The median home price is $100,500, which may appeal to budget-conscious homesteaders.

This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with access to agricultural opportunities. Those who thrive here will likely appreciate the low population density and affordability, but must be prepared to manage the risks associated with natural hazards. However, those who require extensive access to modern amenities or high-speed internet—only available in 58% of households—might find this area less suitable for their needs.

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

Key Facts

Top 76 nationally
Ranks #76 of 3,109 CONUS counties for prepper suitability — top 2%.
#6 of 102 in IL
Ranked #6 of 102 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: landslide
FEMA ranks landslide risk at 79/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Sparse population
15.4 people per square mile — well below the CONUS average.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 52.5°F annual mean and 38.9" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 7b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $100,500.

Score Breakdown

Violence
57
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
11
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
24
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
11.4
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 61
Drought 62
Earthquake 36
Hail 58
Hurricane 16
Heat Wave 55
Riverine Flood 8
Ice Storm 20
Landslide 79
Lightning 19
Strong Wind 62
Tornado 28
Wildfire 0
Winter Weather 17

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
86°F
Winter low
17.8°F
Heating degree days
5,613
Cooling degree days
1,092

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$100,500
Median HH income
$63,737
Price to income
1.6×
Property tax rate
1.8%
~$1,805/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
48.2
Homeownership
80.7%
Poverty rate
19.5%
Unemployment
6.7%

Connectivity

Broadband households
58.3%
No internet access
12.9%

Explore Schuyler County Further

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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.