Henderson County, TX
84,511 residents · 874 sq mi · 96.7/sq mi · 66% rural
About Henderson County
Henderson County is a county in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 82,150. The county seat is Athens. The county is named in honor of James Pinckney Henderson, the first attorney general of the Republic of Texas, and secretary of state for the republic. He later served as the first governor of Texas. Henderson County was established in 1846, the year after Texas gained statehood. Its first town was Buffalo, laid out in 1847. Henderson County comprises the Athens micropolitan statistical area, which is also included in the Dallas-Fort Worth combined statistical area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 65.7°F and 44.1 inches of rainfall, making it suitable for a variety of crops in USDA zone 9b. The terrain is primarily rural, with a population density of 96.7 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. However, the growing season may be impacted by the high summer temperatures, with summer highs averaging 94.9°F, which can stress certain crops.
This area faces several natural hazards, including a high risk of cold waves (FEMA rank 98) and tornadoes (rank 94), which could pose significant challenges for homesteaders. Additionally, the violence percentile at 78 indicates a higher likelihood of crime compared to many other regions, which may be a concern for some. The median home price of $159,600 is relatively affordable, but the effective property tax rate of 1.08% could add to the cost of living.
This county may be a good fit for those seeking a rural lifestyle with access to farming opportunities, particularly for individuals comfortable with the risks posed by severe weather. However, those who prioritize safety and low crime rates might find the area's violence percentile concerning. The primary dealbreaker for potential homesteaders could be the threat of tornadoes and other severe weather events, while the affordability of housing could be a hidden gem for others.