Livingston County, NY
61,516 residents · 632 sq mi · 97.4/sq mi · 71% rural
About Livingston County
Livingston County is a county in the U.S. state of New York. As of the 2020 census, the population was 61,834. Its county seat is Geneseo. The county is named after Robert R. Livingston, who helped draft the Declaration of Independence and negotiated the Louisiana Purchase. The county is part of the Finger Lakes region of the state.
Prepper Assessment
Livingston County features a diverse terrain with 71% of its 632 square miles classified as rural, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 47.7°F, with summer highs averaging 80.7°F and winter lows around 16.4°F. The area receives about 35.6 inches of rain per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7b crops. Water availability is favorable due to the humid classification, making it conducive for farming and gardening.
Natural hazards in this area include riverine flooding (FEMA rank 73), drought (66), and ice storms (65), which could pose challenges for homesteaders. The population density of 97.4 people per square mile may lead to some competition for resources, although the low violence percentile of 6 indicates a safer environment. Additionally, the median home price of $159,900 and effective property tax rate of 2.53% suggest a manageable cost of living, though these factors can vary by location within the county.
This county may be a good fit for individuals seeking a balance of rural living with access to essential services, as indicated by a broadband subscription rate of 73%. Those who thrive here are likely to be self-sufficient and prepared for occasional natural hazards. However, individuals looking for extreme isolation or a warmer climate year-round may find the area less appealing due to its cold winters and potential flood risks.