Hunt & Live

Cumberland County, TN

63,522 residents · 681 sq mi · 93.2/sq mi · 54% rural

Climate
55.6°F
59.2" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 2.28
Hardiness
Zone 8b
Winter low ~16.9°F

About Cumberland County

Cumberland County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 61,145. Its county seat is Crossville. Cumberland County comprises the Crossville, TN micropolitan statistical area.

46
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1748 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

This area features a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with a population density of 93.2 people per square mile. The climate is generally mild, characterized by an annual mean temperature of 55.6°F and ample rainfall at 59.2 inches per year, which supports diverse agricultural practices. The USDA zone 8b indicates a suitable growing season for a variety of crops, although the humidity may present challenges for certain plants. Water availability is generally good, thanks to the humid classification and relatively high precipitation.

However, there are notable risks to consider. The county ranks high for natural hazards, with cold waves, tornadoes, and winter weather all scoring above 85 on the FEMA scale, indicating significant potential for severe weather events. Additionally, the violence percentile is at 83, suggesting a higher-than-average level of violent crime, which could be a concern for those seeking a peaceful homesteading environment. The median home price of $199,800 may also be a barrier for some, especially in relation to the median household income of $56,002.

This county may be best suited for individuals or families who prioritize agricultural potential and can manage the risks associated with severe weather and higher crime rates. Those with experience in farming or self-sufficient living could thrive here, leveraging the favorable growing conditions. However, individuals seeking a low-risk environment with a strong sense of safety may find the county less appealing, as the combination of natural hazards and violence rates could be significant dealbreakers.

AI-generated analysis based on county data (climate, hazards, density, housing, economy). For general orientation only.

Key Facts

Ranked #2,831 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#82 of 95 in TN
Ranked #82 of 95 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: cold wave
FEMA ranks cold wave risk at 87/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
93.2 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 55.6°F annual mean and 59.2" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 8b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $199,800.

Score Breakdown

Violence
24
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
67
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
70
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
67.2
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 87
Drought 59
Earthquake 85
Hail 68
Hurricane 51
Riverine Flood 58
Ice Storm 64
Landslide 82
Lightning 84
Strong Wind 82
Tornado 86
Wildfire 73
Winter Weather 86

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
83.8°F
Winter low
26.9°F
Heating degree days
4,340
Cooling degree days
940

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$199,800
Median HH income
$56,002
Price to income
3.6×
Property tax rate
0.34%
~$676/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
52.6
Homeownership
79%
Poverty rate
12.6%
Unemployment
5.7%

Connectivity

Broadband households
66.6%
No internet access
12.4%

Explore Cumberland County Further

Similar Counties

Data sources. Prepper scores are national percentile ranks of firearm fatalities (County Health Rankings 2024 / CDC WONDER), FEMA National Risk Index 2023 composite disaster score, and population density (ACS 2022 + TIGER 2022 land area). Climate from NOAA nClimDiv 1991–2020 normals. Hardiness zone is estimated from climate data and may differ from the official USDA PHZM. Demographics and housing from Census ACS 5-year 2022. All scores are for comparison purposes only and do not constitute advice about where to live.