Rutherford County, TN
360,619 residents · 619 sq mi · 582.3/sq mi · 16% rural
About Rutherford County
Rutherford County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. It is located in Middle Tennessee. As of a 2023 estimate, the population was 367,101, making it the fifth-most populous county in Tennessee. A study conducted by the University of Tennessee projects Rutherford County to become the third largest county in Tennessee by population by 2050. Its county seat is Murfreesboro, which is also the geographic center of Tennessee. As of 2010, it is the center of population of Tennessee. Rutherford County is included in the Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin, TN Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
The county features a mix of urban and rural environments, with a population density of 582.3 people per square mile, indicating a significant urban presence. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 59.2°F and an average annual rainfall of 55 inches, supporting a growing season suitable for a variety of crops in USDA zone 8b. However, the area's high humidity may present challenges for some crops, and water availability should be carefully managed due to the humid classification.
Natural hazards pose notable risks, with the county ranking high for cold waves (98), winter weather (97), and tornadoes (95) on the FEMA hazard scale. This area also faces earthquake (95) and riverine flood (93) risks, which could impact self-sufficiency efforts. Additionally, with a population of over 360,000, the density percentile at 92 indicates a crowded environment that may lead to increased competition for resources and higher living costs, with a median home price of $305,100.
This area may suit individuals or families who are comfortable navigating urban settings while seeking self-sufficient living options. Those with experience in disaster preparedness and resilience may thrive here, especially if they are adaptable to the risks presented. However, potential homesteaders looking for remote, low-density locations might find the county's urbanization and high population density to be significant dealbreakers.