Coryell County, TX
85,057 residents · 1,052 sq mi · 80.8/sq mi · 20% rural
About Coryell County
Coryell County is a county located on the Edwards Plateau in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 83,093. The county seat is Gatesville. The county is named for James Coryell, a frontiersman and Texas Ranger who was killed by Caddo Indians.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a blend of rural and suburban characteristics, with a population density of 80.8 people per square mile. The climate is generally mild, with an annual mean temperature of 66.4°F and 34.8 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season conducive to diverse crops in USDA zone 9b. However, the region's dry sub-humid classification may limit water availability for extensive agricultural activities, making careful water management essential for self-sufficiency.
The area faces several natural hazards, including a FEMA rank of 88 for tornado risk and 83 for wildfire risk, which may pose significant challenges for residents. While the violence percentile is relatively low at 32, indicating a safer environment, the disaster percentile at 63 suggests that residents should prepare for potential emergencies. Housing costs are moderate, with a median home price of $153,300, but the effective property tax rate of 1.54% may impact overall affordability.
This county could be a good fit for individuals or families who prioritize a rural lifestyle and are prepared for the risks associated with severe weather events. Those who thrive here will likely have skills in agriculture and emergency preparedness. However, urban dwellers seeking urban amenities or those unprepared for the area's hazards may find it challenging. A hidden gem for homesteaders could be the reasonable housing market, but the dealbreaker may be the constant threat of tornadoes and wildfires.