Broward County, FL
1,947,026 residents · 1,203 sq mi · 1,618.6/sq mi
About Broward County
Broward County is a county in Florida, United States, located in the Miami metropolitan area. It is Florida's second-most populous county after Miami-Dade County and the 17th-most populous in the United States, with 1,944,375 residents as of the 2020 census. Its county seat and most populous city is Fort Lauderdale, which had a population of 182,760 as of 2020. The county is part of the South Florida region of the state.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 75.9°F and an average rainfall of 59.9 inches per year. The growing season is long, supported by USDA zone 11b, allowing for diverse agriculture. However, the county's high population density of 1,618.6 people per square mile may limit opportunities for self-sufficient living and access to land. The terrain is mostly flat, which could be a strength for certain types of farming but may lack natural barriers for wind and flooding.
Broward County faces significant natural hazards, with FEMA ranking hurricanes, lightning, and riverine flooding at the highest risk levels (100, 100, and 99 respectively). The area also has a high heat wave risk (99) and wildfire risk (97), which could complicate outdoor living and resource management. Additionally, with a violence percentile of 21, safety concerns may arise in certain urban areas. The median home price of $348,600 may also be a barrier for some seeking affordable homesteading options.
This county may suit individuals who prioritize urban amenities and are willing to navigate the challenges of a densely populated area. Those who thrive here may have flexible work situations or access to resources that mitigate the risks of natural disasters. However, traditional homesteaders seeking large plots of land and a quieter, rural lifestyle may find the county's characteristics a dealbreaker. The hidden gem for urban preppers could be the access to broadband, which facilitates online work and community engagement.