Hunt & Live

Georgetown County, SC

64,722 residents · 814 sq mi · 79.5/sq mi · 42% rural

Climate
64.4°F
52.6" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.55
Hardiness
Zone 9b
Winter low ~26.2°F

About Georgetown County

Georgetown County is a county located in the U.S. state of South Carolina. As of the 2020 census, the population was 63,404. Its county seat is Georgetown. The county was founded in 1769. It is named for George III of the United Kingdom. Georgetown County comprises the Murrells Inlet, SC Micropolitan Statistical Area, which is also included in the Myrtle Beach-Conway, SC Combined Statistical Area.

18
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #2929 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

This area features a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 64.4°F and an average annual rainfall of 52.6 inches. The growing season is relatively long, typical of USDA zone 9b, allowing for diverse crop cultivation. The terrain is characterized by a mix of coastal and inland environments, providing access to both freshwater and saltwater resources. However, the population density of 79.5 people per square mile suggests a moderate level of human activity, which may impact self-sufficiency efforts.

Georgetown County faces significant natural hazards, particularly hurricanes (FEMA rank 98) and lightning (rank 96), which could pose serious risks to homesteaders. The county also has a high disaster percentile at 93, indicating frequent natural events that could disrupt living conditions. Additionally, the violence percentile of 70 suggests a greater risk of crime compared to many other areas, which may be a concern for those seeking a peaceful homesteading experience. The median home price of $234,600 may also be a barrier for some potential residents.

This location may suit individuals or families who are prepared for the challenges of coastal living and are resilient in the face of natural disasters. Those with experience in hurricane preparedness and a strong community network may thrive here. However, individuals seeking a low-risk environment with minimal natural hazards or a very rural lifestyle may find this area less appealing, particularly due to the high risks of hurricanes and other disasters.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #2,905 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#29 of 46 in SC
Ranked #29 of 46 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: hurricane
FEMA ranks hurricane risk at 98/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
79.5 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 64.4°F annual mean and 52.6" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $234,600.

Score Breakdown

Violence
87
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
93
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
66
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
92.5
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Coastal Flood 86
Cold Wave 50
Drought 28
Earthquake 91
Hail 52
Hurricane 98
Heat Wave 81
Riverine Flood 76
Ice Storm 76
Landslide 14
Lightning 96
Strong Wind 27
Tornado 55
Wildfire 91
Winter Weather 55

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
90.3°F
Winter low
36.2°F
Heating degree days
2,245
Cooling degree days
2,069

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$234,600
Median HH income
$59,782
Price to income
3.9×
Property tax rate
0.46%
~$1,087/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
51
Homeownership
81.8%
Poverty rate
16%
Unemployment
5%

Connectivity

Broadband households
67.2%
No internet access
15%

Explore Georgetown County Further

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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.