Hunt & Live

Van Buren County, TN

6,429 residents · 273 sq mi · 23.5/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
56.8°F
58.5" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 2.17
Hardiness
Zone 8b
Winter low ~17.9°F

About Van Buren County

Van Buren County is a county located in the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 census, the population was 6,168, making it the second-least populous county in Tennessee. Its county seat is Spencer.

68
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #572 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a rural lifestyle with a low population density of 23.5 people per square mile, ideal for those seeking remoteness. The climate, classified as USDA zone 8b, features a mild annual mean temperature of 56.8°F and ample rainfall at 58.5 inches per year, supporting diverse agricultural activities. The growing season is favorable, allowing for a variety of crops, while the humid environment ensures a reliable water supply for self-sufficient living.

However, there are notable risks to consider. The county has a FEMA disaster percentile of 2, indicating a lower likelihood of natural hazards, but landslides (ranked 64) and wildfires (ranked 36) pose significant threats. The violence percentile of 71 suggests a higher level of safety compared to many areas, but potential residents should remain aware of these risks. Additionally, while housing is relatively affordable with a median home price of $132,700, the economic landscape might be limited for some.

This county may appeal to individuals or families looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle with good agricultural potential. Those who thrive here are likely self-sufficient and comfortable with a slower pace of life. However, urban dwellers seeking immediate access to amenities or those who require robust job opportunities may find this area challenging. The dealbreaker for many might be the limited broadband access at 65%, which could hinder remote work or connectivity needs.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #687 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#2 in TN
Top 5 counties in Tennessee out of 95.
Dominant hazard: landslide
FEMA ranks landslide risk at 64/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Sparse population
23.5 people per square mile — well below the CONUS average.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 56.8°F annual mean and 58.5" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 8b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $132,700.

Score Breakdown

Violence
60
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
3
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
33
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
2.7
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 34
Drought 27
Earthquake 33
Hail 8
Hurricane 19
Heat Wave 3
Riverine Flood 8
Ice Storm 11
Landslide 64
Lightning 14
Strong Wind 16
Tornado 27
Wildfire 36
Winter Weather 26

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
85.1°F
Winter low
27.9°F
Heating degree days
4,049
Cooling degree days
1,103

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$132,700
Median HH income
$44,730
Price to income
Property tax rate
0.43%
~$573/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
47.4
Homeownership
80.4%
Poverty rate
17%
Unemployment
4.1%

Connectivity

Broadband households
65%
No internet access
21.6%

Explore Van Buren 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.