Potter County, TX
115,645 residents · 908 sq mi · 127.3/sq mi · 11% rural
About Potter County
Potter County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 118,525. Its county seat is Amarillo. The county was created in 1876 and organized in 1887. It is named for Robert Potter, a politician and signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and the Texas Secretary of the Navy. Potter County is included in the Amarillo metropolitan area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a semi-arid climate with an annual mean temperature of 58.6°F and about 18.7 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is suitable for USDA zone 8a, allowing for a variety of crops. However, the terrain is relatively flat and can be prone to drought, which may limit water availability for self-sufficient living. The county's rural areas provide some remoteness, but the higher population density of 127.3 people per square mile could impact the level of isolation desired by some homesteaders.
The county faces significant natural hazards, including a FEMA rank of 100 for winter weather and hail, and high risks for tornadoes and strong winds, with ranks of 98 and 97 respectively. Additionally, the violence percentile at 85 indicates a higher risk of crime when compared to other areas. The median home price of $119,900 may be appealing to some, but the effective property tax rate of 1.59% could add to overall living costs for potential homesteaders.
This area may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking affordable housing and who are prepared to navigate the risks associated with severe weather events. Those who thrive here will likely be resilient and resourceful, with a focus on adapting to the challenges of a semi-arid environment. However, those seeking a low-density, safer location may find the higher population density and violence percentile to be dealbreakers, making this county less suitable for them.