Hunt & Live

Burleson County, TX

18,657 residents · 659 sq mi · 28.3/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
68.2°F
40.8" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.03
Hardiness
Zone 9b
Winter low ~29.2°F

About Burleson County

Burleson County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 17,642. Its county seat is Caldwell. The county is named for Edward Burleson, a general and statesman of the Texas Revolution.

62
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #825 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a predominantly rural lifestyle characterized by a population density of 28.3 people per square mile. The climate is generally warm, with an annual mean temperature of 68.2°F and significant rainfall of 40.8 inches per year. The USDA zone 9b indicates a suitable environment for diverse crops and gardening, while the humid classification may support ample water resources, making it a viable location for self-sufficient living. However, the high summer temperatures, reaching up to 96.2°F, may pose challenges for certain crops and livestock.

This county faces several natural hazards, with drought being a significant concern, rated at 85 by FEMA. Other risks include hurricanes (72), cold waves (60), and hail (56), which could impact agricultural productivity and safety. The area has a moderate level of violence at the 62nd percentile, indicating a higher risk compared to many other regions. Although the median home price is relatively affordable at $154,700, the 37% broadband subscription rate may limit access to online resources and services, which could be a drawback for those reliant on technology.

Burleson County may suit individuals seeking a rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture and self-sufficiency, particularly those comfortable with the risks associated with drought and extreme weather events. However, it may not be ideal for those who prefer urban amenities or require high-speed internet access. Homesteaders willing to adapt to the climate and manage the risks may find hidden gems in the fertile land and community-oriented atmosphere, while others may struggle with the area's limitations.

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

Key Facts

Ranked #1,077 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#125 of 254 in TX
Ranked #125 of 254 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: drought
FEMA ranks drought risk at 85/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Rural-suburban mix
28.3 people per square mile.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 68.2°F annual mean and 40.8" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 9b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $154,700.

Score Breakdown

Violence
49
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
29
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
37
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
29.1
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Cold Wave 61
Drought 85
Earthquake 18
Hail 56
Hurricane 73
Heat Wave 48
Riverine Flood 35
Ice Storm 55
Landslide 17
Lightning 35
Strong Wind 30
Tornado 37
Wildfire 43
Winter Weather 34

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
96.2°F
Winter low
39.2°F
Heating degree days
1,692
Cooling degree days
2,873

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$154,700
Median HH income
$71,745
Price to income
2.2×
Property tax rate
1.06%
~$1,643/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
44.1
Homeownership
78.7%
Poverty rate
12.5%
Unemployment
3.8%

Connectivity

Broadband households
36.6%
No internet access
18.1%

Explore Burleson 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.