Marion County, TN
29,094 residents · 498 sq mi · 58.4/sq mi · 91% rural
About Marion County
Marion County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 28,837. Its county seat is Jasper. Marion County is part of the Chattanooga metropolitan area. Marion County is in the Central time zone, while Chattanooga proper is in the Eastern time zone.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 58.5°F and an average of 61.5 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is favorable for diverse crops, supported by USDA zone 8b. The terrain is predominantly rural, with 91% of the population living in less dense settings, allowing for ample space for self-sufficient living and gardening. However, the area does have some limitations in terms of access to immediate urban resources.
Natural hazards pose some risks, as indicated by FEMA rankings for strong winds (83), tornadoes (82), and landslides (81). The violence percentile is relatively low at 29/100, suggesting a safer environment, but the disaster percentile at 58/100 indicates moderate risk overall. The median home price of $153,000 is reasonable, but potential homesteaders should consider the effective property tax rate of 0.47% when budgeting for land and living expenses.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with the potential for self-sufficiency and gardening. Those comfortable with the risks associated with severe weather events and who appreciate a more remote living environment may thrive here. However, individuals requiring robust urban infrastructure or those who are not prepared for the potential challenges of rural living might find this area less suitable.
