San Juan County, CO
803 residents · 388 sq mi · 2.1/sq mi · 100% rural
About San Juan County
San Juan County is a county located in the U.S. state of Colorado. As of the 2020 census, the population was 705, making it the least populous county in Colorado. The county seat and the only incorporated municipality in the county is Silverton. The county name is the Spanish language name for "Saint John", the name Spanish explorers gave to a river and the mountain range in the area. With a mean elevation of 11,240 feet, San Juan County is the highest county in the United States and also has the two highest elevation houses in the United States; the ‘Bonnie Belle’ above Animas Forks at 11,900’ – 11,950’ elevation and an unnamed house above Picayune Gulch at 12,000’ elevation.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a unique high-altitude environment, with a mean elevation of 11,240 feet, presenting both challenges and opportunities for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by a cold annual mean of 35.5°F, with summer highs averaging 65.2°F and winter lows dipping to 9.5°F. The growing season is limited, but the county receives 39.1 inches of rainfall annually, contributing to a humid classification that can support diverse plant life if managed well.
Several notable natural hazards exist in the county, including a high risk of avalanches (FEMA rank 96) and landslides (rank 64), which could pose significant threats to safety and property. The area has a low population density of 2.1 people per square mile, which can offer a sense of remoteness but may also lead to isolation. The median home price of $344,600 might be a barrier for some, especially given the median household income of $67,344.
This county may be a good fit for experienced homesteaders seeking a remote, rugged environment with ample natural resources, provided they are prepared for the challenges of high-altitude living. Those who thrive here will likely appreciate the solitude and natural beauty but should be wary of the risks associated with avalanches and limited access to services. Newcomers or those unaccustomed to harsh climates may find the conditions difficult to manage.