Clarion County, PA
37,346 residents · 601 sq mi · 62.2/sq mi · 85% rural
About Clarion County
Clarion County is a county in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. As of the 2020 census, the population was 37,241. Its county seat is Clarion. The county was formed on March 11, 1839, from parts of Venango and Armstrong counties. Clarion County is entirely defined as part of the Pittsburgh media market. The county is part of the North Central region of the commonwealth.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Clarion County offers a mix of rural charm and practical resources for self-sufficient living. The terrain is predominantly rural, with a population density of 62.2 people per square mile, allowing for ample space and privacy. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 48.6°F and a growing season typical of USDA zone 7b, which supports a variety of crops. With 45.6 inches of rainfall each year, water availability is generally favorable for gardening and livestock.
However, there are notable risks to consider. The area has a FEMA disaster percentile of 30, indicating some vulnerability to natural hazards, particularly lightning (ranked 81) and landslides (ranked 70). The presence of strong winds (ranked 44) and potential riverine flooding (ranked 52) may pose additional challenges. While the violence percentile is relatively low at 36, the population's density could lead to some concerns regarding community interactions and safety.
This area is well-suited for those who appreciate a rural lifestyle with access to basic amenities, given the median home price of $143,300 and a reasonable property tax rate of 1.03%. Individuals or families looking for a quiet, self-sustaining homestead may thrive here, particularly if they are prepared for the local hazards. However, those seeking urban conveniences or who are not comfortable with the risks associated with natural disasters may find this county less appealing.