Williamsburg County, SC
30,058 residents · 934 sq mi · 32.2/sq mi · 83% rural
About Williamsburg County
Williamsburg County is a county located in the U.S. state of South Carolina. As of the 2020 census its population was 31,026. The county seat and largest community is Kingstree. After a previous incarnation of Williamsburg County, the current county was created in 1804.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural living with a population density of 32.2 people per square mile, allowing for some remoteness while still having access to community resources. The climate is classified as humid with an annual mean temperature of 64.4°F and around 50.1 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 9b. However, the summer highs can reach 92°F, which may challenge some crops without adequate irrigation.
Natural hazards are a significant consideration, with hurricanes (FEMA rank 95) posing the highest risk, followed by earthquakes and wildfires, both ranking in the top 10% of risks. The area also has a relatively high violence percentile at 83/100, indicating safety concerns. While the median home price is affordable at $86,900, the cost of living may be impacted by the local economy, which has a median household income of $40,848.
This county may be a good fit for those seeking an affordable rural lifestyle and who are prepared for the risks of natural disasters. It may appeal to individuals or families focused on self-sufficient living who can manage the climate's challenges. However, those sensitive to safety concerns or seeking urban amenities may find the environment less suitable, as the high violence percentile could be a dealbreaker for some.