Mohave County, AZ
220,816 residents · 13,332 sq mi · 16.6/sq mi · 24% rural
About Mohave County
Mohave County occupies the northwestern corner of the U.S. state of Arizona, one of 15 counties in the state. As of the 2020 census, its population was 213,267. The county seat is Kingman, and the largest city is Lake Havasu City. It is the fifth largest county in the United States.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area is characterized by its vast, arid terrain, with a low population density of 16.6 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 63.1°F and only 9.9 inches of rainfall per year, which limits water availability for self-sufficient living. The growing season is extended, falling under USDA zone 9a, allowing for a variety of crops, but the intense summer heat, reaching highs of 97.7°F, poses challenges for gardening and livestock management.
Natural hazards present significant risks in this area, as indicated by FEMA rankings. Wildfire risks are particularly high, with a rank of 99, alongside extreme heat waves and lightning storms. The area also faces riverine flooding, especially during rainy seasons, which could impact homesteading efforts. With a violence percentile of 94/100, safety could be a concern for residents, especially in more populated areas like Kingman and Lake Havasu City. Additionally, the median home price of $233,700 may be a barrier for some potential homesteaders.
This county may be a good fit for experienced homesteaders who are well-prepared for extreme weather and have strategies for water conservation and wildfire prevention. Those seeking a remote lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency could thrive here, provided they are comfortable with the risks. However, individuals looking for a safer environment or those who require consistent access to resources and community services may find this area less suitable for their needs.