Valley County, ID
12,464 residents · 3,665 sq mi · 3.4/sq mi · 69% rural
About Valley County
Valley County is a rural county located in the U.S. state of Idaho. As of the 2020 census, the population was 11,746. The county seat is Cascade, and the largest city is McCall. Established in 1917, it was named after the Long Valley of the North Fork of the Payette River, which extends over 30 miles (50 km) from Payette Lake at McCall south to Cascade to Round Valley. The valley was formerly a summer pasture for livestock from the Boise Valley. Since the completion of the Cascade Dam in 1948, much of the northern valley has been covered by the Cascade Reservoir.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and natural beauty, with a population density of just 3.4 people per square mile, allowing for ample space and privacy. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 39.7°F, with a growing season suited for USDA zone 7a. The region receives an average of 35 inches of rainfall per year, supporting diverse agriculture and gardening endeavors. However, the colder winter lows averaging 12.7°F may limit year-round growing options for some crops.
While the county's remoteness can be appealing, it comes with significant risks. FEMA ranks wildfire as a major hazard with a risk score of 98, alongside landslides (96) and avalanches (84). The cost of living is relatively high, with a median home price of $471,000, which may be a barrier for some. Although the area has a lower violence percentile at 62, the overall disaster percentile of 56 indicates that residents should be prepared for potential natural hazards.
This county may be a good fit for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle, particularly individuals or families comfortable with the risks of natural hazards and higher housing costs. Homesteaders who thrive on self-sufficiency and can adapt to the climate will find opportunities here. However, those seeking a more temperate climate year-round or lower housing prices may find this area less suitable for their needs.