Roane County, TN
55,082 residents · 361 sq mi · 152.7/sq mi · 52% rural
About Roane County
Roane County is a county of the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 53,404. Its county seat is Kingston. Roane County is included in the Knoxville metropolitan area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and accessibility, with 52% of the population classified as rural. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 58.6°F and ample rainfall at 57 inches per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 8b. However, the terrain may present challenges, particularly with the notable risk of landslides and other natural hazards, which could impact self-sufficient living.
The county faces several natural hazards, with landslides ranked at FEMA's 93, indicating a significant risk. Other concerns include cold waves (ranked 89) and earthquakes (ranked 86), which could pose safety and structural challenges. The population density is relatively high at 152.7 people per square mile, which may contribute to a sense of congestion in certain areas. Median home prices are $193,400, which could be a barrier for some seeking affordable land.
This county may be a good fit for those who value rural living with access to urban amenities, particularly families or individuals comfortable with the risks associated with natural hazards. However, it may not suit those seeking extreme remoteness or minimal natural disaster exposure. A hidden gem for homesteaders could be the affordability of housing compared to other regions, but the risks of landslides and earthquakes may be a dealbreaker for many.