Nolan County, TX
14,473 residents · 912 sq mi · 15.9/sq mi · 30% rural
About Nolan County
Nolan County is a county located in the west-central region of the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 14,738. Its county seat is Sweetwater. The county was created in 1876 and organized in 1881. It is named for Philip Nolan, one of the first American traders to visit Texas. Nolan County comprises the Sweetwater micropolitan statistical area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and a semi-arid climate, with an annual mean temperature of 64.1°F and average rainfall of 23.1 inches. The growing season benefits from USDA zone 9a, allowing for a variety of crops. However, the dry sub-humid classification indicates a need for careful water management. The landscape is primarily open and sparsely populated, with only 15.9 people per square mile, which may appeal to those seeking solitude and space for self-sufficient living.
Natural hazards pose significant challenges, particularly drought (FEMA rank 90) and wildfire risk (FEMA rank 87), which could impact agricultural endeavors and water availability. The area also experiences hail and strong winds, with respective FEMA ranks of 86 and 80. While the violence percentile is at 40, indicating a moderate safety level, the cost of living is relatively low, with median home prices around $91,300 and property tax at 1.56%, which may be attractive to potential homesteaders.
This county may suit individuals or families looking for an affordable, rural lifestyle with the ability to grow their own food and engage in self-sufficient practices. Those experienced in managing water resources and dealing with environmental risks would likely thrive here. However, potential homesteaders should consider the significant drought and wildfire risks as dealbreakers, particularly if they lack the means to mitigate these hazards effectively.