Uvalde County, TX
24,940 residents · 1,552 sq mi · 16.1/sq mi · 35% rural
About Uvalde County
Uvalde County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 24,564. Its county seat is Uvalde. The county was created in 1850 and organized in 1856. It is named for Juan de Ugalde, the Spanish governor of Coahuila. Uvalde County was founded by Reading Wood Black, who also founded the city of Uvalde, Texas. Uvalde County comprises the Uvalde, TX Micropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a semi-arid climate with an annual mean temperature of 69.1°F and about 25.7 inches of rain per year. The growing season is relatively long, supported by USDA zone 9b, which allows for a variety of crops. Terrain is characterized by open spaces and a rural population density of 16.1 people per square mile, making it suitable for self-sufficient living. However, water scarcity could be a challenge due to the area's classification as semi-arid.
This county faces several significant natural hazards, including a high risk of drought (FEMA rank 90) and riverine flooding (rank 82). Heat waves (rank 82) can also be a concern during the summer months, with average highs reaching 96.5°F. While the area has a relatively low violence percentile of 10/100, indicating safety, the effective property tax rate of 1.44% and median home price of $129,900 may pose affordability challenges for some.
Uvalde County could be a good fit for those who value rural living and are prepared for the challenges of a semi-arid environment. Individuals with experience in drought-resistant farming or those seeking a quiet, low-density area may thrive here. However, those reliant on abundant water resources or seeking urban amenities might find the county's limitations a dealbreaker, particularly given its broadband subscription rate of only 58% of households.