Johnston County, NC
234,778 residents · 792 sq mi · 296.4/sq mi · 53% rural
About Johnston County
Johnston County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of the 2020 census, its population was 215,999. Its county seat is Smithfield. Johnston County is included in the Raleigh-Cary, NC Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is also included in the Raleigh-Durham-Cary, NC Combined Statistical Area, which had an estimated population of 2,368,947 in 2023.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and accessibility, with a population density of 296.4 people per square mile. The climate is generally mild, with an annual mean temperature of 61.0°F and 48.9 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 9a. However, the terrain may present challenges for extensive self-sufficient living, particularly with the risks of riverine flooding and winter weather impacting agricultural activities.
The county faces several natural hazards, including a high risk for winter weather (FEMA rank 98) and tornadoes (rank 94), which could disrupt homesteading efforts. With a violence percentile of 29/100, safety concerns are relatively low, but the overall disaster percentile at 86/100 indicates a higher likelihood of experiencing significant weather-related events. The median home price of $240,100 may also be a barrier for some aspiring homesteaders, especially in a competitive housing market.
This area may be a good fit for those who appreciate a rural lifestyle with access to urban amenities, such as families or individuals seeking a quieter environment. However, those looking for a completely off-grid lifestyle may find the risks of severe weather and flooding to be significant dealbreakers. The hidden gem here is the relatively low property tax rate of 0.73%, which could benefit those looking to invest in real estate for homesteading purposes.