St. Johns County, FL
306,841 residents · 601 sq mi · 510.9/sq mi · 15% rural
About St. Johns County
St. Johns County is located in the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Florida. As of the 2020 United States census, its population was 273,425. The county seat and most populous incorporated city is St. Augustine, although the nearby community, St. Johns, has a higher population. St. Johns County is part of the Jacksonville, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a warm, humid climate with an annual mean temperature of 70.2°F and significant rainfall of 52.5 inches per year. The growing season is long, suitable for a variety of crops, thanks to the USDA zone 10b classification. However, the high population density at 510.9 people per square mile may limit opportunities for true self-sufficiency, especially in rural land availability. The county's diverse terrain includes coastal areas and wetlands, which can provide resources but also impose challenges.
The county faces several natural hazards, with hurricanes posing the highest risk (FEMA rank 94), followed by lightning (92) and various flooding risks (coastal and riverine both at 89). The area's relatively high population density could also contribute to social tensions in emergencies. Additionally, the median home price of $416,100 may be a barrier for those seeking affordable land for homesteading, especially when combined with a median household income of $100,020.
This county may suit those who appreciate a warm climate and are prepared for the risks associated with coastal living, particularly those experienced in disaster preparedness. However, individuals seeking a more remote, low-density lifestyle might find the population pressures and high housing costs challenging. A homesteader's dealbreaker here could be the high likelihood of hurricanes, while a hidden gem might be the potential for year-round growing conditions.