Union County, FL
15,460 residents · 244 sq mi · 63.5/sq mi · 100% rural
About Union County
Union County is a county located in the north central portion of the U.S. state of Florida, the smallest in the state by area. As of the 2020 census, the population was 16,147. The county seat is Lake Butler.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this rural county offers a warm subtropical climate, with an annual mean temperature of 69.0°F and significant rainfall of 52 inches per year. The growing season is ample due to its USDA zone 10a classification, making it suitable for a variety of crops. The terrain is primarily flat, which can facilitate agricultural activities, but the county's small size may limit some aspects of self-sufficient living, particularly for those seeking extensive land for larger homesteads.
This area faces notable natural hazards, including hurricanes (FEMA rank 82) and wildfires (FEMA rank 74), which could pose challenges for long-term sustainability. The county's disaster percentile is low at 11, indicating a higher risk of facing severe weather events. While the population density is moderate at 63.5 people per square mile, the violence percentile of 46 suggests that safety is a consideration, although it is not among the highest concerns.
This county may appeal to individuals and families looking for a rural lifestyle with affordable housing, as the median home price is $146,200 and property taxes are low at 0.66%. Those who thrive here will appreciate the warm climate and agricultural potential. However, individuals seeking extensive land or those who are particularly risk-averse regarding natural disasters may find the area's vulnerabilities a dealbreaker.