St. Mary County, LA
47,789 residents · 559 sq mi · 85.6/sq mi · 20% rural
About St. Mary County
St. Mary Parish is a parish located in the U.S. state of Louisiana. As of the 2020 census, the population was 49,406. The parish seat is Franklin. The parish was created in 1811.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 69.2°F and significant rainfall at 60.7 inches per year. The growing season is relatively long, allowing for a variety of crops to thrive, especially in USDA zone 10a. The terrain is characterized by rural settings, with 20% of the population living in rural areas, which can support self-sufficiency. However, the higher population density of 85.6 people per square mile may limit some aspects of privacy and remoteness.
Natural hazards pose significant risks in this county, with hurricanes (FEMA rank 97) and coastal flooding (rank 93) being the most pressing concerns. The area also faces drought (rank 91) and tornado risks (rank 86), which could impact agricultural efforts. The violence percentile is high at 82/100, suggesting safety concerns in certain areas. While the median home price of $128,000 is relatively affordable, the effective property tax rate of 0.39% should be factored into the overall cost of living.
This county may be a suitable fit for those seeking an affordable, rural lifestyle with a warm climate and ample rainfall for agriculture. Homesteaders who can navigate the risks of natural disasters and prioritize safety may thrive here. However, individuals sensitive to high crime rates or those seeking extreme remoteness might find this location less appealing. The combination of a long growing season and reasonable housing costs could be seen as a hidden gem for aspiring self-sufficient residents.