Cook County, IL
5,109,292 residents · 945 sq mi · 5,407.1/sq mi · 0% rural
About Cook County
Cook County is the most populous county in the U.S. state of Illinois and the second-most-populous county in the United States, after Los Angeles County, California. More than 40 percent of all residents of Illinois live within Cook County. As of 2020, the population was 5,275,541. The county seat is Chicago, the most populous city in Illinois and the third most populous city in the United States. The county is at the center of the Chicago metropolitan area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area means experiencing a densely populated urban environment, with a population density of 5,407.1 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with an annual mean temperature of 50.2°F and significant rainfall of 38.4 inches per year. The growing season is moderate, typical for USDA zone 7b, which allows for a variety of crops but may limit year-round self-sufficiency due to urban constraints and limited access to land.
The county faces significant risks, particularly from natural hazards, with tornado, cold wave, winter weather, riverine flood, and heat wave all ranked at the highest FEMA hazard level of 100. The high population density may also contribute to safety concerns, as indicated by a violence percentile of 62/100. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively high, with a median home price of $293,700 and property taxes at an effective rate of 2.02%, which could be a barrier for those seeking affordable homesteading options.
This county may be suitable for individuals or families who thrive in urban settings and prioritize access to amenities and services over self-sufficient living. It could be a poor fit for traditional homesteaders or those seeking a rural lifestyle, as the high density and associated costs can be significant dealbreakers. Hidden gems in this area might include community gardens or urban farming initiatives, but overall, the environment is not conducive to extensive self-sufficiency.