Union County, MS
28,125 residents · 416 sq mi · 67.7/sq mi · 76% rural
About Union County
Union County is a county located in the U.S. state of Mississippi. It was formed in 1870 from Tippah and Pontotoc counties, and in 1874 a portion of Lee County was added. As of the 2020 census, the population was 27,777. Its county seat is New Albany. According to most sources, the county received its name by being a union of pieces of several large counties, like other Union counties in other states. However, other sources say that the name was meant to mark the re-union of Mississippi and the other Confederate states after the Civil War.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 61.5°F and substantial rainfall at 57.9 inches per year. The growing season is favorable for agriculture, particularly in USDA zone 9a, allowing for a variety of crops. The terrain is predominantly rural with a population density of 67.7 people per square mile, which may offer opportunities for self-sufficient living and access to land, although the proximity to urban areas could influence the availability of resources.
Natural hazards present notable risks, with earthquakes ranked at 85 and cold waves at 73 being significant concerns. The county's disaster risk percentile is 43, indicating moderate vulnerability to various hazards. Additionally, the area has a higher violence percentile at 81, suggesting potential safety concerns for residents. While housing is relatively affordable with a median home price of $144,900, the cost of living may be impacted by local economic conditions and infrastructure, such as the 50% broadband subscription rate.
This county may suit individuals seeking a rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture and self-sufficiency, particularly those comfortable with the risks associated with natural hazards. However, those who prioritize safety and low disaster risk might find it less appealing. The combination of a humid climate and a moderate cost of living could be a hidden gem for aspiring homesteaders, while the higher violence percentile may be a dealbreaker for some.