Coahoma County, MS
20,197 residents · 553 sq mi · 36.5/sq mi · 33% rural
About Coahoma County
Coahoma County is a county located in the U.S. state of Mississippi. As of the 2020 census, the population was 21,390. Its county seat is Clarksdale. The Clarksdale, MS Micropolitan Statistical Area includes all of Coahoma County. It is located in the Mississippi Delta region of Mississippi. In 2023, the Clarksdale, Mississippi Micropolitan area was added to form the new Memphis-Clarksdale-Forrest City Combined Statistical Area. The Memphis-Clarksdale-Forrest City Combined Statistical Area has a population of roughly 1.4 million.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 62.9°F and 53.7 inches of rainfall per year, making it conducive for a growing season typical of USDA zone 9a. The terrain is primarily flat, characteristic of the Mississippi Delta, which can be advantageous for agriculture and livestock. However, the county's average population density of 36.5 people per square mile indicates a mix of rural and urban settings, which may affect access to resources and community support for self-sufficient living.
The county faces significant natural hazards, with notable risks including earthquakes (FEMA rank 91) and tornadoes (rank 87), which pose serious threats to safety and property. Additionally, the area has a high violence percentile of 99, indicating safety concerns that could impact daily life. While the median home price is relatively low at $84,400, the economic conditions reflected by a median household income of $36,075 may limit self-sustaining opportunities, particularly for those seeking to invest in homesteading.
This county may suit individuals or families with experience in managing risks and who are prepared for the challenges posed by natural hazards and economic constraints. Those who thrive here will likely be adaptable, resourceful, and focused on agriculture or small-scale farming. However, potential homesteaders who prioritize safety and stability might find the area's high violence rate and natural disaster risks to be significant dealbreakers.
