Worth County, IA
7,319 residents · 400 sq mi · 18.3/sq mi · 100% rural
About Worth County
Worth County is a county located in the U.S. state of Iowa. As of the 2020 census, the population was 7,443. The county seat is Northwood. The county was founded in 1851 and named for Major General William Jenkins Worth (1794–1849), an officer in both the Seminole War and the Mexican–American War.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a rural landscape with a population density of 18.3 people per square mile, offering ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 45.3°F, with a growing season suitable for USDA zone 6b crops. The county receives an average of 35.8 inches of rainfall per year, which supports agriculture, although the aridity index of 1.73 indicates a humid climate. This environment can be favorable for diverse crop cultivation and livestock raising.
Natural hazards pose some risks, with drought ranked at FEMA level 89, indicating a significant concern for water availability during dry spells. Other notable hazards include winter weather (rank 39) and tornadoes (rank 36), which could disrupt homesteading activities. The area has a relatively low violence percentile of 27/100, suggesting a safer environment, but potential challenges in housing affordability exist, with a median home price of $130,600 and an effective property tax rate of 1.17%.
This county may appeal to those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with opportunities for farming and self-sufficiency. It is well-suited for individuals or families looking for a community-oriented atmosphere and who are prepared to manage the risks associated with weather extremes and drought. However, those seeking a milder climate year-round or who are unprepared for potential severe weather may find this area less suitable for their needs.