Hunt & Live

Red River County, TX

11,542 residents · 1,044 sq mi · 11.1/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
63.4°F
49.8" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.48
Hardiness
Zone 9a
Winter low ~22.7°F

About Red River County

Red River County is a county in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 11,587. Its county seat is Clarksville. The county was created in 1835 and organized in 1837. It is named for the Red River, which forms its northern boundary. Red River County was the birthplace of John Nance Garner, 32nd Vice President of the United States.

56
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1132 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a predominantly rural lifestyle with a population density of 11.1 people per square mile, allowing for ample space and privacy. The climate is classified as humid with an annual mean temperature of 63.4°F and significant rainfall at 49.8 inches per year, supporting diverse agricultural opportunities. The growing season aligns with USDA zone 9a, making it suitable for a variety of crops, though the summer highs can reach 93.7°F, which may pose challenges for some plants and livestock management.

Natural hazards are a significant consideration, with the county facing risks such as ice storms (FEMA rank 100), drought (78), and tornadoes (73). While the area has a relatively low violence percentile of 81/100, indicating a safer environment, the disaster percentile of 65/100 suggests some vulnerability to natural events. Additionally, the median home price of $113,600 and property tax rate of 1.10% may appeal to those looking for affordable living, but the limited broadband access (40% subscription) could hinder those reliant on internet connectivity.

This county may suit individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with the capacity for self-sufficient living, particularly those experienced in agriculture and prepared for the local climate's extremes. It may not be ideal for newcomers unfamiliar with rural living or those dependent on modern amenities such as high-speed internet. The presence of significant natural hazards could be a dealbreaker for some, while the affordable housing market remains a hidden gem for others willing to adapt to local conditions.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #1,851 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#166 of 254 in TX
Ranked #166 of 254 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: ice storm
FEMA ranks ice storm risk at 100/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Sparse population
11.1 people per square mile — well below the CONUS average.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 63.4°F annual mean and 49.8" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9a.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $113,600.

Score Breakdown

Violence
49
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
65
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
19
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
64.7
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 39
Drought 78
Earthquake 37
Hail 60
Hurricane 47
Heat Wave 58
Riverine Flood 12
Ice Storm 100
Landslide 8
Lightning 34
Strong Wind 37
Tornado 73
Wildfire 60
Winter Weather 25

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
93.7°F
Winter low
32.7°F
Heating degree days
2,694
Cooling degree days
2,161

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$113,600
Median HH income
$44,583
Price to income
2.5×
Property tax rate
1.1%
~$1,247/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
48.9
Homeownership
75%
Poverty rate
20.2%
Unemployment
3.8%

Connectivity

Broadband households
40.2%
No internet access
25.7%

Explore Red River County Further

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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.