Taylor County, TX
145,163 residents · 916 sq mi · 158.6/sq mi · 18% rural
About Taylor County
Taylor County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 143,208. Its county seat is Abilene. The county was created in 1858 and later organized in 1878. It is named for Edward Taylor, George Taylor, and James Taylor, three brothers who died at the Battle of the Alamo.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural and suburban experiences, with a population density of 158.6 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 64.3°F and 25.5 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 9a crops. However, the region's dry sub-humid classification may limit water availability, making sustainable self-sufficient living more challenging during dry spells. The terrain is primarily flat, which can be advantageous for agriculture and livestock.
This area faces several natural hazards, with hail (FEMA rank 99) and winter weather (rank 94) posing significant risks. Wildfire risk is also notable, ranked at 90, which could impact agricultural activities. The violence percentile of 56 indicates a moderate level of safety concerns, while the disaster percentile at 84 suggests a higher likelihood of encountering natural disasters compared to other regions. Home prices are relatively affordable, with a median home cost of $169,800, but the effective property tax rate of 1.51% could be a consideration for budget planning.
This county may suit individuals or families who are comfortable with a mix of rural and suburban living and who possess the skills to manage agricultural challenges in a dry climate. Those who thrive here will likely be adaptable and prepared for seasonal extremes and potential natural disasters. Conversely, individuals seeking a highly self-sufficient lifestyle with minimal risk from natural hazards may find the area's challenges, particularly concerning water availability and wildfire risk, to be significant dealbreakers.