Beauregard County, LA
36,570 residents · 1,158 sq mi · 31.6/sq mi · 73% rural
About Beauregard County
Beauregard Parish is a parish located in the U.S. state of Louisiana. As of the 2020 census, the population was 36,549. The parish seat and most populous municipality is DeRidder. The parish was formed on January 1, 1913.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a warm, humid climate with an annual mean temperature of 67.4°F and ample rainfall of 60.1 inches per year, supporting a growing season suitable for a variety of crops. The terrain is predominantly rural, with a population density of 31.6 people per square mile, allowing for spacious homesteading opportunities. However, the high summer temperatures, peaking at 92.5°F, may pose challenges for certain crops and livestock management during the hottest months.
The county faces several notable natural hazards, including a high risk of lightning (FEMA rank 90) and hurricanes (rank 82), which could impact both safety and property. Additionally, the area experiences ice storms (rank 85) and drought (rank 73), which may complicate agricultural efforts. While the median home price is relatively affordable at $150,200, the effective property tax rate of 0.34% is low, yet the economic opportunities may be limited compared to more urban areas.
This county may be a good fit for those seeking a rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture and self-sufficiency, particularly individuals comfortable with the risks of natural disasters and willing to engage in community resilience efforts. However, those who prefer urban amenities or are not prepared for the potential challenges of extreme weather may find this area less suitable. The hidden gem here is the low cost of living, but the dealbreaker could be the high hazard rankings for lightning and hurricanes.