Crawford County, IA
16,123 residents · 714 sq mi · 22.6/sq mi · 51% rural
About Crawford County
Crawford County is a county located in the U.S. state of Iowa. As of the 2020 census, the population was 16,525, and was estimated to be 16,378 in 2024. The county seat is Denison. The county was named for William Harris Crawford, U.S. senator from Georgia and United States Secretary of the Treasury.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and practical conditions for self-sufficient living. The county spans 714 square miles with a population density of 22.6 people per square mile, allowing for some degree of remoteness. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 48.0°F, with an average of 33.6 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for crops in USDA zone 7a. However, the region's humid conditions and varying temperatures may require careful management of water resources and crop selection.
The county faces several natural hazards, including a high risk of drought (FEMA rank 98) and tornadoes (rank 82), which could pose challenges to agriculture and homesteading. The violence percentile of 27 suggests a relatively safer environment, but the density percentile of 32 indicates some population concentration. Additionally, the median home price of $118,400 is reasonable, but the effective property tax rate of 1.27% may impact long-term affordability for potential homesteaders.
This area may be a good fit for those seeking a rural lifestyle with moderate risks and a manageable cost of living. Individuals comfortable with farming and prepared for weather-related challenges could thrive here. However, those looking for a more extreme remote setting or who are sensitive to the risks of tornadoes and drought may find the county less appealing. A hidden gem is the relatively affordable housing market, which could benefit new homesteaders looking to establish roots.