Saline County, IL
23,087 residents · 380 sq mi · 60.8/sq mi · 65% rural
About Saline County
Saline County is a county in Southern Illinois. At the 2020 census, it had a population of 23,768. The largest city and county seat is Harrisburg. This area of Southern Illinois is known locally as "Little Egypt."
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban living, with a population density of 60.8 people per square mile, indicating ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is classified as USDA zone 8b, with an annual mean temperature of 56.6°F and 48.4 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a decent growing season. However, the humid conditions may present challenges for certain crops, and the risk of earthquakes could impact infrastructure and water sources.
Natural hazards are a significant concern, with earthquakes ranked at FEMA 94 and strong winds at 89, indicating a heightened risk for these events. The violence percentile is 63, suggesting moderate safety concerns, and the disaster percentile at 70 indicates that the area may face various environmental risks. While housing is relatively affordable, with a median home price of $87,900, the effective property tax rate of 1.60% may add to living costs over time.
This county may be suitable for individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with access to basic amenities, particularly those who are adaptable to the risks posed by natural disasters. Self-sufficient homesteaders who can manage the challenges of earthquakes and strong winds might thrive here. However, those looking for a completely secure environment with minimal risk exposure may find this area less appealing due to its disaster profile and moderate violence statistics.