El Dorado County, CA
192,646 residents · 1,708 sq mi · 112.8/sq mi · 37% rural
About El Dorado County
El Dorado County, officially the County of El Dorado, is a county located in the U.S. state of California, named after the mythical city of El Dorado.
As of the 2020 census, the population was 191,185. The county seat is Placerville. The county is part of the Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade, CA Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is located entirely in the Sierra Nevada, from the historic Gold Country in the western foothills to the High Sierra in the east. El Dorado County's population has grown as Greater Sacramento has expanded into the region. Where the county line crosses US 50 at Clarksville, the distance to Sacramento is 15 miles (24 km). In the county's high altitude eastern end at Lake Tahoe, environmental awareness and environmental protection initiatives have grown along with the population since the 1960 Winter Olympics, hosted at the former Squaw Valley Ski Resort in neighboring Placer County.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a diverse terrain, ranging from the historic Gold Country foothills to the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada. The climate is classified as humid, with an annual mean temperature of 54.3°F and about 45.4 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is suitable for a variety of crops, particularly in USDA zone 9a, although the higher elevations may present challenges for traditional farming methods due to colder temperatures and potential snow.
However, there are significant risks to consider. The county has a high wildfire risk, rated 100 by FEMA, along with notable hazards such as landslides (97) and riverine flooding (92). The population density is relatively high at 112.8 people per square mile, which may lead to concerns about community safety and resources. The median home price is steep at $597,600, which may pose a barrier for those seeking affordable homesteading options.
This county may suit experienced homesteaders who can navigate its environmental challenges and are financially prepared for the high cost of living. Those seeking a remote lifestyle with access to natural resources might thrive here, especially if they have a plan for wildfire mitigation. Conversely, individuals looking for a lower-cost, less hazardous location may find this area less appealing due to its high disaster risk and housing market pressures.