Benton County, MS
7,550 residents · 407 sq mi · 18.6/sq mi · 100% rural
About Benton County
Benton County is a county located in the U.S. state of Mississippi. As of the 2020 census, the population was 7,646. Its county seat is Ashland. It is locally believed that residents convinced the post-Civil War Reconstruction government that Benton County was named after U.S. Senator Thomas Hart Benton, but the name actually honored Confederate Brigadier General Samuel Benton of nearby Holly Springs in Marshall County, nephew of the senator. Benton County is included in the Memphis, TN-MS-AR Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a predominantly rural landscape with a low population density of 18.6 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is classified as humid with an annual mean temperature of 60.9°F and an average of 57.2 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season benefits from USDA zone 9a, allowing for a variety of crops to be cultivated, although summer highs can reach 90.1°F, which may require careful water management.
Benton County faces several natural hazards, with notable risks including earthquakes (FEMA rank 78) and landslides (rank 70), which could pose significant concerns for potential homesteaders. The area also has a higher violence percentile at 92/100, indicating a need for caution regarding personal safety. While housing is relatively affordable with a median home price of $96,200, the low broadband subscription rate of 26% may hinder access to information and resources essential for modern self-sufficiency.
This county may suit those looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle with the ability to grow their own food and live off the land, particularly if they are comfortable with the risks associated with natural hazards. However, individuals seeking a more connected community or urban amenities may find it lacking. The hidden gem for homesteaders could be the affordability of property, while the dealbreaker might be the significant natural hazard risks present in the region.