Westmoreland County, PA
352,057 residents · 1,028 sq mi · 342.6/sq mi · 27% rural
About Westmoreland County
Westmoreland County is a county in the state of Pennsylvania, United States, in the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population was 354,663. The county seat is Greensburg and the most populous community is Hempfield Township. It is named after Westmorland, a historic county of England. The county is part of the Southwest Pennsylvania region of the state.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural and suburban environments, with a population density of 342.6 people per square mile. The climate presents a moderate growing season, supported by an annual mean temperature of 50.8°F and 45.7 inches of rainfall per year. The USDA zone 8a allows for a variety of crops, while the humid classification indicates ample water resources. However, the region's terrain may present challenges for extensive agricultural practices due to its potential for landslides and flooding.
Natural hazards pose significant risks, with FEMA rankings indicating high likelihoods for lightning (96), riverine flooding (94), and landslides (91). The area also experiences strong winds (90) and hail (86). While the violence percentile at 22 suggests a relatively safer environment, the overall disaster percentile of 88 indicates a higher risk for natural disasters. Additionally, the median home price of $181,600 may be a barrier for some prospective homesteaders, particularly those with limited financial resources.
This county may suit individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle between rural and suburban living, especially those with moderate financial means who can manage the risks of natural hazards. Homesteaders willing to invest in disaster preparedness and who prioritize community engagement may thrive here. However, those averse to the potential for flooding and landslides or who require complete self-sufficiency in a more remote setting might find the area's limitations a dealbreaker.