Terrell County, TX
693 residents · 2,358 sq mi · 0.3/sq mi · 100% rural
About Terrell County
Terrell County is a county in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 760, making it the seventh-least populous county in Texas, and the 37th-least populous county in the nation. Its county seat is the census-designated place of Sanderson; no incorporated municipalities are in the county. The county was named for Alexander W. Terrell, a Texas state senator. Terrell County is one of the nine counties in the Trans-Pecos region of West Texas. It is the setting for Cormac McCarthy's novel No Country for Old Men, and the Academy Award-winning film adaptation of the same name.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a unique experience characterized by its vast, arid landscape and low population density of just 0.3 people per square mile. The annual mean temperature is 67.2°F, with summer highs reaching 95.8°F and winter lows around 33.9°F, making for a relatively mild climate. With only 14.5 inches of rainfall per year, water conservation will be crucial for self-sufficient living, but the USDA zone 9a allows for a variety of crops to thrive during the growing season.
This county faces notable risks, particularly from wildfires, which are ranked 47th in FEMA's hazard assessment. While the area is relatively safe with a violence percentile of 51, the low population density may also mean limited access to services and community support. The median home price of $119,800 offers affordability, but the arid conditions and potential for drought could pose challenges for gardening or livestock farming without adequate water management.
Terrell County may be suitable for those who value solitude and are prepared for a rural lifestyle, particularly individuals experienced in managing arid land. Homesteaders with strong skills in water conservation and drought-resistant agriculture will likely thrive here. However, those reliant on urban amenities or who prefer a more densely populated area may find the remoteness and limited infrastructure a significant drawback.