Hunt & Live

Clinton County, IN

32,843 residents · 405 sq mi · 81.1/sq mi · 50% rural

Climate
51.1°F
42.4" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.8
Hardiness
Zone 7b
Winter low ~8°F

About Clinton County

Clinton County is a county located in the U.S. state of Indiana. As of 2020, the population was 33,190. The county seat is Frankfort.

53
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1296 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

This area features a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with a population density of 81.1 people per square mile, allowing for some degree of remoteness. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 51.1°F and 42.4 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for diverse crops in USDA zone 7b. However, the potential for drought and the risk of winter weather may challenge self-sufficient living, particularly for those relying on consistent water and growing conditions.

Natural hazards in this area include hail (FEMA rank 73), strong winds (69), and winter weather (61), which can impact both agriculture and infrastructure. The county's disaster percentile is 30/100, indicating a moderate risk for natural disasters. While the violence percentile is relatively low at 34/100, the population density may contribute to some social tensions. Additionally, the median home price of $140,100 and a property tax rate of 0.69% may appeal to those seeking affordable living options.

Clinton County may suit individuals or families looking for a moderately priced rural lifestyle with access to agricultural opportunities. Those who thrive here are likely self-sufficient, adaptable, and prepared for seasonal weather challenges. However, urban dwellers accustomed to high-speed internet (only 48% broadband subscription) or those seeking a more isolated and less populated environment may find this area less appealing. The balance of affordability and moderate risk factors will be crucial for potential homesteaders.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #1,135 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#32 of 92 in IN
Ranked #32 of 92 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: hail
FEMA ranks hail risk at 73/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
81.1 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 51.1°F annual mean and 42.4" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 7b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $140,100.

Score Breakdown

Violence
44
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
30
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
67
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
30.5
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 58
Drought 65
Earthquake 60
Hail 73
Hurricane 25
Heat Wave 49
Riverine Flood 35
Ice Storm 36
Landslide 30
Lightning 25
Strong Wind 69
Tornado 57
Wildfire 6
Winter Weather 61

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
83.5°F
Winter low
18°F
Heating degree days
5,863
Cooling degree days
845

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$140,100
Median HH income
$59,515
Price to income
2.4×
Property tax rate
0.69%
~$973/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
36.7
Homeownership
72.7%
Poverty rate
9%
Unemployment
3.4%

Connectivity

Broadband households
48%
No internet access
15.5%

Explore Clinton 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.