Hunt & Live

White County, TN

28,064 residents · 377 sq mi · 74.5/sq mi · 79% rural

Climate
57.4°F
58.5" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 2.13
Hardiness
Zone 8b
Winter low ~18°F

About White County

White County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 27,351. Its county seat is Sparta. White County is in the Cookeville Micropolitan Statistical Area.

46
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1763 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and moderate climate, with an annual mean temperature of 57.4°F and an average of 58.5 inches of rainfall per year. The USDA planting zone 8b allows for a diverse growing season, though the winter lows can drop to 28°F. The terrain is primarily rural, with 79% of the population living outside urban centers, providing opportunities for self-sufficient living, albeit with some limitations in access to resources and services.

The county faces several natural hazards, with the highest FEMA ranks for winter weather (76) and earthquakes (69), which could pose significant risks to infrastructure and safety. The area has a violence percentile of 76, indicating a higher incidence of crime compared to many regions, which may concern some potential residents. Additionally, while the median home price is relatively affordable at $161,500, the cost of living may still be a concern for those on tighter budgets.

This county may suit individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with a moderate climate who are prepared for the risks of natural hazards and higher crime rates. Those looking for a strong community network and self-sufficiency may thrive here, particularly if they are resourceful and adaptable. However, individuals who prefer urban amenities, lower risk of natural disasters, or a safer environment may find this area challenging.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #2,111 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#45 of 95 in TN
Ranked #45 of 95 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: winter weather
FEMA ranks winter weather risk at 76/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
74.5 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 57.4°F annual mean and 58.5" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 8b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $161,500.

Score Breakdown

Violence
59
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
38
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
64
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
38.5
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 69
Drought 40
Earthquake 69
Hail 40
Hurricane 41
Heat Wave 18
Riverine Flood 43
Ice Storm 46
Landslide 46
Lightning 59
Strong Wind 66
Tornado 66
Wildfire 31
Winter Weather 76

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
86.6°F
Winter low
28°F
Heating degree days
3,964
Cooling degree days
1,227

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$161,500
Median HH income
$48,220
Price to income
3.3×
Property tax rate
0.46%
~$736/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
43
Homeownership
75.9%
Poverty rate
17.1%
Unemployment
5.4%

Connectivity

Broadband households
67.8%
No internet access
14.3%

Explore White County Further

Similar Counties

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.