Washington County, ID
11,087 residents · 1,453 sq mi · 7.6/sq mi · 48% rural
About Washington County
Washington County is a county in the U.S. state of Idaho. As of the 2020 census, the population was 10,500. The county seat and largest city is Weiser, with over half of the county's population. The county was established in 1879 when Idaho was a territory and named after U.S. President George Washington.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and practical resources for self-sufficient living. With a population density of 7.6 people per square mile, residents can expect a relatively remote lifestyle. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 48.3°F, with 20.7 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops. However, the dry sub-humid classification (aridity index 0.98) may limit water availability, requiring careful management of resources.
Risks in the area include a high wildfire hazard, ranked 96 by FEMA, which poses a significant threat during dry seasons. Other notable hazards include avalanches (rank 74) and landslides (rank 73). The violence percentile at 78 indicates a higher level of safety compared to other regions, but the overall disaster percentile of 30 suggests some vulnerability to natural events. Additionally, while the median home price is $212,000, the effective property tax rate of 0.63% may appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle with opportunities for agricultural pursuits. Those with experience in managing land and resources will likely thrive here, while newcomers to homesteading may face challenges, particularly in water management. The primary dealbreaker for potential homesteaders could be the high wildfire risk, while the low population density and affordable housing could be attractive factors for others.