Hunt & Live

DeWitt County, TX

19,772 residents · 909 sq mi · 21.8/sq mi · 51% rural

Climate
70.3°F
35.4" rain/yr
Water
dry sub-humid
Aridity index 0.83
Hardiness
Zone 10a
Winter low ~32.6°F

About DeWitt County

DeWitt County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 19,824. The county seat is Cuero. The county was founded in 1846 and is named for Green DeWitt, who founded an early colony in Texas.

46
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1811 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and a warm climate, with an annual mean temperature of 70.3°F and about 35.4 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is favorable, particularly in USDA zone 10a, allowing for a variety of crops. However, the dry sub-humid classification indicates potential challenges with water availability. The terrain is predominantly flat, which may be advantageous for farming but could also contribute to flood risks during heavy rains.

Natural hazards are a significant consideration, with the county facing a high risk of hurricanes (FEMA rank 90) and riverine flooding (rank 89). The disaster percentile of 84 suggests a higher likelihood of experiencing such events compared to many other areas. Additionally, the violence percentile is at 46, indicating moderate safety concerns. While the median home price is relatively affordable at $156,700, the cost of living could be impacted by the area's vulnerability to natural disasters.

This county may suit those seeking a rural lifestyle and are prepared for potential natural hazards, particularly individuals with skills in farming and self-sufficiency. However, it may not be ideal for families or individuals who prioritize safety and stability, given the risks of flooding and hurricanes. A dealbreaker for many homesteaders could be the limited water resources, while a hidden gem might be the warm climate and long growing season for dedicated gardeners.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #1,773 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#160 of 254 in TX
Ranked #160 of 254 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: hurricane
FEMA ranks hurricane risk at 90/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Sparse population
21.8 people per square mile — well below the CONUS average.
Climate profile
Classified as dry sub-humid with a 70.3°F annual mean and 35.4" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 10a.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $156,700.

Score Breakdown

Violence
49
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
84
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
30
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
83.9
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 73
Drought 72
Earthquake 21
Hail 67
Hurricane 90
Heat Wave 67
Riverine Flood 89
Ice Storm 33
Landslide 17
Lightning 63
Strong Wind 35
Tornado 71
Wildfire 68
Winter Weather 36

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
96.5°F
Winter low
42.6°F
Heating degree days
1,271
Cooling degree days
3,218

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$156,700
Median HH income
$61,100
Price to income
2.6×
Property tax rate
0.89%
~$1,387/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
41.7
Homeownership
70.7%
Poverty rate
16.5%
Unemployment
5.2%

Connectivity

Broadband households
45.3%
No internet access
24.5%

Explore DeWitt 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.