Hunt & Live

Camden County, NC

11,088 residents · 240 sq mi · 46.1/sq mi · 95% rural

Climate
60.5°F
49.3" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.64
Hardiness
Zone 9a
Winter low ~21.7°F

About Camden County

Camden County is a consolidated city-county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of the 2020 census, the population was 10,355, making it the fourth-least populous county in North Carolina. Its county seat is Camden. Camden County is included in the Virginia Beach-Chesapeake, VA-NC Combined Statistical Area.

56
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1129 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and access to natural resources. With a population density of 46.1 people per square mile and 95% of the land classified as rural, residents can enjoy a relatively spacious environment. The climate is humid with an annual mean temperature of 60.5°F and 49.3 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 9a crops. However, potential homesteaders should consider the implications of coastal proximity on water availability and agricultural practices.

There are notable risks to consider, particularly the area's vulnerability to hurricanes, ranked 72 by FEMA, along with coastal flooding (rank 50) and winter weather (rank 38). While the violence percentile is relatively moderate at 62, the disaster percentile is low at 2, indicating a higher safety from significant hazards. The median home price of $261,000 may also be a consideration for those looking to relocate, as it could affect budgetary constraints for new homesteaders.

This county may be a good fit for those who prioritize rural living and can manage the risks associated with coastal weather events. It is ideal for individuals or families looking for a quieter lifestyle with access to agricultural opportunities. However, those who are averse to the potential for severe weather impacts or who require a more urban environment may find this area less suitable. For homesteaders, the hidden gem could be the relatively low property tax rate of 0.65%, which may support long-term financial planning.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #823 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#3 in NC
Top 5 counties in North Carolina out of 100.
Dominant hazard: hurricane
FEMA ranks hurricane risk at 72/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
46.1 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 60.5°F annual mean and 49.3" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9a.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $261,000.

Score Breakdown

Violence
80
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
2
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
51
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
2.5
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Coastal Flood 50
Cold Wave 11
Drought 33
Earthquake 12
Hail 8
Hurricane 72
Heat Wave 24
Riverine Flood 6
Ice Storm 13
Landslide 2
Lightning 17
Strong Wind 11
Tornado 14
Wildfire 24
Winter Weather 38

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
88°F
Winter low
31.7°F
Heating degree days
3,189
Cooling degree days
1,570

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$261,000
Median HH income
$79,120
Price to income
3.3×
Property tax rate
0.65%
~$1,689/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
41.1
Homeownership
84.1%
Poverty rate
5.9%
Unemployment
5.6%

Connectivity

Broadband households
75.1%
No internet access
6%

Explore Camden 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.