Socorro County, NM
16,115 residents · 6,646 sq mi · 2.4/sq mi · 51% rural
About Socorro County
Socorro County is a county in the U.S. state of New Mexico. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 16,595. The county seat is Socorro. The county was formed in 1852 as one of the original nine counties of New Mexico Territory. Socorro was originally the name given to a Native American village by Don Juan de Oñate in 1598. Having received vitally needed food and assistance from the native population, Oñate named the pueblo Socorro.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of arid terrain and a relatively mild climate, with an annual mean temperature of 54.8°F and only 11.6 inches of rain per year. The growing season is supported by USDA zone 8a, making it suitable for a variety of crops. However, water scarcity is a significant concern due to the aridity index of 0.46, which may limit self-sufficiency efforts. The low population density of 2.4 people per square mile contributes to a sense of remoteness, appealing for those seeking solitude.
Natural hazards present notable risks, with wildfires rated at FEMA rank 87, indicating a high likelihood of occurrence. Other risks include lightning, hail, and riverine flooding, all ranked above 70. The area has a relatively high violence percentile of 84, suggesting that safety may be a concern for some. Additionally, while the median home price of $132,700 is affordable, the median household income of $40,699 may strain budgets, especially for those looking to invest in homesteading.
This county may suit individuals or families looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle and who are prepared to manage water scarcity and wildfire risks. Those with experience in arid farming or sustainable practices will likely thrive here. However, individuals seeking a bustling community or those unprepared for the challenges of limited resources and safety concerns may find this location unsuitable. A hidden gem for homesteaders could be the affordable property taxes at 0.53%, which may allow for more investment in self-sufficient living.