Mills County, TX
4,500 residents · 748 sq mi · 6.0/sq mi · 100% rural
About Mills County
Mills County is located in Texas, United States. It was created on March 15, 1887, from parts of four existing counties in Central Texas—Brown, Comanche, Hamilton, and Lampasas—and named after John T. Mills. The 2020 census reported a population of 4,456. Its county seat is Goldthwaite. A long-time resident of the county quipped that residing here is the closest a person could get to living in Mayberry.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Mills County offers a rural experience with a low population density of 6.0 people per square mile, which can provide a sense of remoteness and tranquility. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 65.6°F and 30.8 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 9a crops. However, the area is classified as dry sub-humid, which may limit water availability for extensive self-sufficient farming without proper management.
Mills County faces several natural hazards, including a wildfire risk ranked 76 by FEMA, which could pose significant threats to homesteaders. The area also has moderate risks for hail and drought, with rankings of 50 and 48, respectively. While the violence percentile is at 51, indicating an average safety level, the rural nature may contribute to a lack of immediate emergency services. Housing is relatively affordable, with a median home price of $188,900, but the cost of living should be evaluated against income levels.
This county may suit individuals or families looking for a quieter, rural lifestyle focused on self-sufficiency, particularly those who are prepared to manage water resources and mitigate wildfire risks. However, it may not be ideal for those seeking urban amenities or immediate access to services. The homesteader's dealbreaker could be the wildfire risk, while the low population density and affordable housing might be hidden gems for others seeking a more isolated living environment.