Red River County, LA
7,420 residents · 389 sq mi · 19.1/sq mi · 100% rural
About Red River County
Red River Parish is a parish located in the U.S. state of Louisiana. As of the 2020 census, the population was 7,620, making it the fourth-least populous parish in Louisiana. The parish seat and most populous municipality is Coushatta. It is one of the newer parishes, created in 1871 by the state legislature from parts of Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Desoto and Natchitoches Parishes under Reconstruction. The plantation economy was based on cotton cultivation, highly dependent on enslaved African labor before the American Civil War.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 65.6°F and ample rainfall at 55.7 inches per year. The growing season is favorable for a variety of crops, supported by USDA zone 9b. The terrain is predominantly rural, providing opportunities for self-sufficient living, though the lack of urban infrastructure may limit access to some resources. Water availability is generally good, but the high summer temperatures can be challenging for certain crops.
Natural hazards are a significant consideration, with strong winds (FEMA rank 83) and hurricanes (rank 64) posing the greatest risks. The area also experiences ice storms (rank 61) and heat waves (rank 57), which can impact living conditions. The violence percentile is notably high at 98/100, indicating potential safety concerns. While the cost of living is relatively low, with a median home price of $99,100, the economic stability could be a concern given the median household income of $43,821.
This county may suit individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture and self-sufficiency. Those comfortable with the risks associated with severe weather and higher crime rates may thrive here. However, individuals requiring robust infrastructure, access to high-speed internet (only 46% broadband subscription), or a more stable economic environment might find this area less suitable for their needs.