Effingham County, IL
34,325 residents · 479 sq mi · 71.7/sq mi · 60% rural
About Effingham County
Effingham County is a county located in the south central part of the U.S. state Illinois. As of the 2020 census, the population was 34,668. Its county seat and largest city is Effingham.
Some other cities in Effingham County, Illinois include Altamont, Teutopolis, Beecher City, Montrose, Dieterich, Shumway, Watson, Mason, and Edgewood. Effingham County comprises the Effingham, IL Micropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
The terrain in this area is predominantly rural, offering a spacious environment with a population density of 71.7 people per square mile. The climate is classified as humid, with an annual mean temperature of 54.2°F and 44 inches of rainfall per year. This contributes to a growing season suitable for a variety of crops, particularly in USDA zone 8a. However, the region's vulnerability to drought and heat waves may pose challenges for self-sufficient living.
Risks in the area include a notable earthquake risk, ranked at FEMA 88, along with drought (87) and landslide (71) threats. The violence percentile is relatively low at 21/100, indicating a safer environment, yet the overall disaster percentile sits at 54/100. While the median home price is $166,500, which is manageable, the effective property tax rate of 1.61% should be considered when budgeting for long-term living costs.
This county may appeal to those who prefer a rural lifestyle and can adapt to the risks associated with natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and drought. Gardeners and small-scale farmers may thrive here, given the favorable growing conditions. However, individuals seeking a highly secure environment with minimal natural hazard risks or those reliant on urban amenities may find this location less suitable.