Coconino County, AZ
144,060 residents · 18,616 sq mi · 7.7/sq mi · 32% rural
About Coconino County
Coconino County is a county in the North-Central part of the U.S. state of Arizona. Its population was 145,101 at the 2020 census. The county seat is Flagstaff. The county takes its name from Cohonino, a name applied to the Havasupai people. It is the second-largest county by area in the contiguous United States, behind San Bernardino County, California. It has 18,661 sq mi (48,332 km2), or 16.4% of Arizona's total area, and is larger than the nine smallest states in the U.S.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Coconino County offers a diverse terrain with vast open spaces and mountainous regions, making it ideal for those seeking remoteness. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 53.4°F and a semi-arid classification, with 12.8 inches of rain per year. The growing season is suitable for hardy crops, although the USDA zone 8a limits some options. Water availability may be a concern due to the aridity index of 0.52, which can impact self-sufficiency efforts.
Natural hazards pose significant risks in this area, with FEMA rankings indicating high vulnerability to lightning (100), wildfire (99), and winter weather (98). The population density is relatively low at 7.7 people per square mile, which may appeal to those looking for space but could also mean limited access to services. The median home price of $379,400 may be a barrier for some, especially when coupled with a median household income of $67,266, which may not align with all budgets.
Coconino County may suit individuals or families who prioritize space and a rural lifestyle, particularly those with experience in managing the risks associated with natural hazards. Those who thrive here are likely self-sufficient or willing to adapt to the challenges of a semi-arid environment. However, newcomers expecting urban amenities or lower housing costs may find it a poor fit, as the combination of high home prices and limited services could be a dealbreaker.