Smith County, TX
241,922 residents · 922 sq mi · 262.5/sq mi · 35% rural
About Smith County
Smith County is a county in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 233,479. Its county seat is Tyler. Smith County is named for James Smith, a general during the Texas Revolution. Smith County is part of the Tyler metropolitan statistical area and the Tyler–Jacksonville combined statistical area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 65.4°F and 46.2 inches of rainfall per year, which supports a growing season conducive to diverse agriculture. The terrain is a mix of rural and urban, with 35% of the population living in rural settings. However, the high summer temperatures averaging 94.3°F can pose challenges for self-sufficient living, particularly in terms of crop selection and water management.
This county faces several natural hazards, with heat waves ranked 96th and lightning at 95th on the FEMA hazard list, making them significant risks for residents. The population density of 262.5 people per square mile may not appeal to those seeking extreme remoteness. Additionally, the relatively high violence percentile (64/100) could be a concern for safety, while the median home price of $201,400 may be a barrier for some prospective homesteaders.
This area may suit individuals or families comfortable with moderate population density and willing to manage the risks of heat and storms. Gardeners and farmers who can adapt to the warm climate will likely thrive here. However, those seeking a completely isolated homestead or prioritizing absolute safety may find the county's hazards and density to be significant drawbacks.