Fayette County, TN
43,630 residents · 705 sq mi · 61.9/sq mi · 75% rural
About Fayette County
Fayette County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 41,990. Its county seat is Somerville. The county was named after the Marquis de la Fayette, French hero of the American Revolution. A part of the Memphis, TN-MS-AR Metropolitan Statistical Area, Fayette County is culturally alike to the Mississippi Delta and was a major area of cotton plantations dependent on slave labor in the nineteenth century.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Fayette County offers a mix of rural charm and a relatively mild climate, with an annual mean temperature of 61.0°F and 55.6 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is favorable for diverse crops, supported by USDA zone 9a conditions. The area is largely rural, with a population density of 61.9 people per square mile, allowing for ample space for self-sufficient living. However, the humid climate may require careful water management for gardening and livestock.
Fayette County faces notable natural hazards, including a high earthquake risk ranked at 95 by FEMA, alongside significant tornado threats at rank 89. The cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $282,600 and a median household income of $81,074, but the effective property tax rate is low at 0.35%. The area also has a relatively high violence percentile at 74/100, indicating potential safety concerns that could impact long-term residency.
This county may appeal to those seeking a rural lifestyle with a warm climate and substantial agricultural potential, particularly for individuals familiar with managing natural hazards. However, prospective homesteaders should be prepared for the risks associated with earthquakes and tornadoes, which could deter those looking for a completely safe environment. The hidden gem here is the low property tax rate, which could benefit those looking to invest in land for homesteading.