Lincoln County, CO
5,510 residents · 2,578 sq mi · 2.1/sq mi · 100% rural
About Lincoln County
Lincoln County is a county located in the U.S. state of Colorado. As of the 2020 census, the population was 5,675. The county seat is Hugo. The county obtains its name in memory of the United States President Abraham Lincoln. The county was formed from portions of Bent and Elbert counties in 1889 from a restructuring of Colorado counties.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Lincoln County offers a rural experience with a low population density of 2.1 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 50.1°F and an average of 14.6 inches of rainfall per year, making it suitable for growing a variety of crops in USDA zone 7a. However, the area is classified as dry sub-humid, which may limit water availability for gardening and livestock.
The county faces several natural hazards, with hail ranked at 67 and drought at 64, posing significant risks to agriculture and infrastructure. While winter weather and cold waves are also concerns, the overall disaster risk is relatively low, with a FEMA disaster percentile of 7. The median home price of $238,000 is moderate, but the effective property tax rate of 0.32% is favorable. The higher violence percentile of 76 indicates a comparatively safer environment, but remoteness may limit access to emergency services.
This county is a good fit for those who prefer a quiet, rural lifestyle and are capable of managing the challenges of a dry climate. Homesteaders with experience in drought-tolerant gardening and self-sufficient living can thrive here. However, individuals seeking urban amenities or those unprepared for the potential impacts of hail and drought may find this area less suitable. A hidden gem for preppers is the low property tax rate, which can enhance long-term financial sustainability.