Wood County, TX
46,857 residents · 645 sq mi · 72.6/sq mi · 87% rural
About Wood County
Wood County is a county located in the U.S. state of Texas. As of the 2020 census, its population was 44,843. Its county seat is Quitman. The county was named for George T. Wood, governor of Texas from 1847 to 1849.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area features a mix of rural charm and humid subtropical climate, with an annual mean temperature of 64.8°F and around 46.8 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season benefits from USDA zone 9b, allowing for a variety of crops to thrive. However, the terrain can be challenging in some areas, and the population density of 72.6 people per square mile may impact the sense of remoteness that some homesteaders seek.
The county faces several natural hazards, including a high risk of ice storms (FEMA rank 97) and strong winds (rank 91). The violence percentile is at 59, indicating a moderate level of safety concerns. Additionally, the median home price of $170,700 may be a barrier for some, especially considering the median household income of $61,748. The effective property tax rate of 1.03% further adds to the financial considerations for potential residents.
This area may be a good fit for those who appreciate a rural lifestyle and are prepared for the risks associated with severe weather. Homesteaders with experience in managing agricultural endeavors in a humid climate may thrive here. However, those seeking a completely isolated environment or a lower risk of natural disasters might find the challenges of this county to be a dealbreaker.