Franklin County, OH
1,321,820 residents · 532 sq mi · 2,482.7/sq mi · 1% rural
About Franklin County
Franklin County is located in the U.S. state of Ohio. As of the 2020 census, the population was 1,323,807, making it the most populous county in Ohio. Most of its land area is taken up by its county seat, Columbus, the state capital and most populous city in Ohio. The county was established on April 30, 1803, less than two months after Ohio became a state, and was named after Benjamin Franklin. Originally, Franklin County extended north to Lake Erie before it was subdivided into smaller counties. Franklin County is the central county of the Columbus, Ohio Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area is characterized by a high population density of 2,482.7 people per square mile, making it one of the most populated counties in Ohio. The climate is humid with an annual mean temperature of 52.8°F and an average of 41.1 inches of rainfall per year, allowing for a growing season suitable for various crops. However, the limited rural land (only 1%) may restrict self-sufficient living opportunities, as available land for homesteading is scarce.
The county faces significant natural hazards, with a FEMA disaster percentile ranking of 98, indicating a high risk for events such as cold waves, heat waves, riverine floods, hail, and tornadoes. The violence percentile is at 47, suggesting a moderate level of safety concerns, particularly in urban areas. Additionally, the median home price of $243,100 could pose affordability challenges for those looking to establish a homestead.
This area may be a better fit for individuals seeking urban amenities and who are less reliant on self-sufficiency, given the high population density and limited rural space. Those looking for a traditional homesteading lifestyle might find the environment restrictive due to the urban landscape and high disaster risks. A hidden gem could be the broadband availability (82%), which supports remote work, but the overall suitability for homesteading is low due to the county's density and hazards.