Brown County, IL
6,330 residents · 306 sq mi · 20.7/sq mi · 100% rural
About Brown County
Brown County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. As of the 2020 census, the population was 6,244. Its county seat is Mount Sterling. Siloam Springs State Park is located partly in this county.
Prepper Assessment
The terrain in this area is predominantly rural, with a low population density of 20.7 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 52.8°F, with summer highs reaching 86.2°F and winter lows of 18.3°F. The growing season is supported by 38.6 inches of rainfall annually, making it suitable for various crops. Notably, it falls within USDA zone 7b, which can be advantageous for gardening and self-sufficient living.
Risks in this area include a notable FEMA ranking for landslides at 79, indicating some geological risk, alongside heat waves and droughts ranked at 63 and 55, respectively. The violence percentile is relatively low at 17, suggesting a safer environment. However, the cost of living is moderate, with median home prices around $122,100 and property taxes at 1.54%, which may be a consideration for prospective homesteaders.
This county may appeal to those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with opportunities for self-sufficiency. Gardeners and small-scale farmers could thrive here due to the favorable climate and land availability. However, individuals who are unprepared for potential geological hazards or who rely heavily on urban amenities may find it less suitable. A hidden gem for homesteaders could be the relatively low violence rate, offering a sense of safety in a rural setting.