Moore County, NC
105,531 residents · 698 sq mi · 151.3/sq mi · 50% rural
About Moore County
Moore County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of the 2020 census, its population was 99,727. Its county seat is Carthage and its largest community Pinehurst. It is a border county between the Piedmont and the Atlantic Coastal Plain.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural and suburban characteristics, with a population density of 151.3 people per square mile. The climate is moderate, with an annual mean temperature of 61.0°F and 46.3 inches of rainfall, making it suitable for a variety of crops in USDA zone 9a. The growing season is relatively long, though the humid conditions and the need for irrigation in drier spells can present challenges for self-sufficient living.
Natural hazards in the region include hurricanes, ice storms, and tornadoes, all ranked in the top percentile for risk according to FEMA data. While the area has a lower violence percentile at 40/100, the population density may lead to some concerns about community safety. The median home price of $284,000 may also be a barrier for some, particularly when considering the area's overall prepper suitability score of 35/100, indicating challenges for long-term self-sufficiency.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families who are adaptable and prepared for the risks associated with the climate and natural hazards. Those with experience in crop cultivation and emergency preparedness are likely to thrive. However, individuals seeking a low-cost living or a completely isolated homesteading experience may find the population density and associated risks to be dealbreakers.