Hunt & Live

Gordon County, GA

58,954 residents · 356 sq mi · 165.4/sq mi · 60% rural

Climate
60.6°F
52.4" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.73
Hardiness
Zone 9a
Winter low ~20.9°F

About Gordon County

Gordon County is a county in the Northwest region of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 57,544. The county seat is Calhoun. Gordon County comprises the Calhoun, GA Micropolitan Statistical Area, which is included in the Atlanta–Athens-Clarke County–Sandy Springs, GA-AL CSA.

44
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1927 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

This area features a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 60.6°F and average rainfall of 52.4 inches per year, making it conducive for year-round growing. The USDA hardiness zone 9a suggests a long growing season, which benefits a variety of crops. The terrain is predominantly rural, with a population density of 165.4 people per square mile, allowing for some degree of remoteness while still being near urban amenities in the nearby Calhoun area.

However, there are notable risks to consider. The county faces a high risk of drought (FEMA rank 99) and other natural hazards such as tornadoes (rank 77) and earthquakes (rank 79). The area has a violence percentile of 43/100, indicating moderate safety concerns. While the median home price is relatively affordable at $179,100, the effective property tax rate of 0.73% may impact overall living costs for potential residents.

This county may suit individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with a warm climate and ample growing potential, particularly those who can manage the risks of natural disasters. However, it may not be ideal for those who prioritize high safety levels or are sensitive to potential drought conditions. Homesteaders looking for a balance between rural living and access to urban resources may find this area a hidden gem, while those needing extreme safety or extensive broadband access may face challenges.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #2,334 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#111 of 159 in GA
Ranked #111 of 159 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: drought
FEMA ranks drought risk at 99/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Urban: 165/sqmi
Densely populated at 165 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 60.6°F annual mean and 52.4" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9a.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $179,100.

Score Breakdown

Violence
21
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
67
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
80
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
67.2
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 75
Drought 99
Earthquake 79
Hail 59
Hurricane 59
Heat Wave 37
Riverine Flood 62
Ice Storm 53
Landslide 75
Lightning 66
Strong Wind 75
Tornado 77
Wildfire 55
Winter Weather 51

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
89.8°F
Winter low
30.9°F
Heating degree days
3,201
Cooling degree days
1,643

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$179,100
Median HH income
$57,555
Price to income
3.1×
Property tax rate
0.73%
~$1,302/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
39.1
Homeownership
71.5%
Poverty rate
14%
Unemployment
3%

Connectivity

Broadband households
56.4%
No internet access
15%

Explore Gordon County Further

Similar Counties

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.