Hunt & Live

Humphreys County, TN

19,106 residents · 531 sq mi · 36.0/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
58.8°F
53.7" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.86
Hardiness
Zone 8b
Winter low ~18°F

About Humphreys County

Humphreys County is a county located in the western part of Middle Tennessee, in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 18,990. Its county seat is Waverly.

50
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #1548 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a rural lifestyle with a population density of 36 people per square mile, allowing for ample space and privacy. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 58.8°F and receives 53.7 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops, particularly in USDA zone 8b. However, the humidity may present challenges for certain crops and livestock management, requiring careful planning for water resources and soil health.

Natural hazards pose significant risks, with earthquakes ranked at FEMA 85 and strong winds and tornadoes both at 75. These factors are critical for those considering self-sufficient living, as preparedness for severe weather events is essential. The area has a higher violence percentile at 83, indicating potential safety concerns, while the cost of living remains manageable with a median home price of $175,600 and a low property tax rate of 0.50%. Access to broadband is limited, with only 53% of households subscribed.

This county may be suitable for those who prioritize space and rural living, particularly individuals or families prepared for the risks associated with natural disasters. It could appeal to homesteaders who can manage the challenges of severe weather and are comfortable with limited connectivity. However, those seeking a more urban environment with consistent access to services and amenities may find this area less accommodating, making it a poor fit for individuals reliant on high-speed internet or urban conveniences.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #2,056 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#42 of 95 in TN
Ranked #42 of 95 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: earthquake
FEMA ranks earthquake risk at 85/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
36.0 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 58.8°F annual mean and 53.7" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 8b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $175,600.

Score Breakdown

Violence
60
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
48
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
43
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
48.3
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 66
Drought 30
Earthquake 85
Hail 28
Hurricane 42
Heat Wave 44
Riverine Flood 46
Ice Storm 60
Landslide 63
Lightning 47
Strong Wind 75
Tornado 75
Wildfire 11
Winter Weather 11

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
88.8°F
Winter low
28°F
Heating degree days
3,725
Cooling degree days
1,499

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$175,600
Median HH income
$54,185
Price to income
3.2×
Property tax rate
0.5%
~$872/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
43
Homeownership
79.2%
Poverty rate
12%
Unemployment
10.2%

Connectivity

Broadband households
52.9%
No internet access
16.5%

Explore Humphreys 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.