Kenedy County, TX
358 residents · 1,459 sq mi · 0.2/sq mi · 100% rural
About Kenedy County
Kenedy County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 350. It is the third-least populous county in Texas and fourth-least populous in the United States. Its county seat is Sarita. The county was created in 1921 from parts of Hidalgo and Willacy counties and is named for Mifflin Kenedy, an early area rancher and steamboat operator.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a predominantly rural lifestyle with a very low population density of 0.2 people per square mile, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. The climate is characterized by a warm annual mean temperature of 73.9°F and a semi-arid classification with 26.1 inches of rain per year. The growing season is favorable, particularly for crops suited to USDA zone 10b, though water availability may be a concern due to the area's aridity index of 0.52.
However, potential residents should be aware of several natural hazards outlined by FEMA. The county ranks high for cold wave risk (92), and hurricanes (73), which could pose significant threats. Additionally, the wildfire risk is moderate at rank 45. While violence levels are average at the 51st percentile, the overall disaster percentile is low at 28, indicating a generally safer environment. Economic factors include a median household income of $45,455, which may impact affordability for some.
This county may appeal to those who prefer extreme remoteness and are well-prepared for potential natural hazards. Homesteaders with experience in managing water resources and dealing with heat will likely thrive here. However, individuals seeking a more densely populated or economically vibrant area might find the county's isolation and limited services challenging, making it a less suitable choice for them.