Philadelphia County, PA
1,567,258 residents · 134 sq mi · 11,664.9/sq mi
About Philadelphia County
Philadelphia County is the most populous of the 67 counties of Pennsylvania and the 24th-most populous county in the nation. As of the 2020 census, the county had a population of 1,603,797. It is coextensive with Philadelphia, the nation's sixth-largest city. The county is part of the Southeast Pennsylvania region of the state.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area is characterized by a dense urban environment, with a population density of 11,664.9 people per square mile, leaving little room for traditional homesteading. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 55.3°F and 46.9 inches of rainfall per year, which supports a growing season typical of USDA zone 8b. However, the lack of rural space limits opportunities for self-sufficient living, making it challenging to engage in large-scale agriculture or livestock raising.
The county faces significant risks, as indicated by its FEMA disaster percentile ranking of 100, suggesting it is highly susceptible to various natural hazards. Notable concerns include extreme heat waves and cold waves, both ranking at 100, as well as high risks for winter weather and riverine flooding. Additionally, the violence percentile of 93 indicates that this area is more prone to violence compared to many others, which may be a consideration for personal safety.
This area may be suitable for individuals seeking urban living with access to amenities but is not ideal for traditional homesteaders or those looking for a retreat from urban life. Urban dwellers who thrive in a city environment and can navigate the risks may find it a good fit. Conversely, those seeking a peaceful, self-sufficient lifestyle with ample land and lower risks of violence or natural disasters would likely find this county unsuitable.