Barber County, KS
4,122 residents · 1,134 sq mi · 3.6/sq mi · 100% rural
About Barber County
Barber County is a county located in the south-central portion of the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and most populous city is Medicine Lodge. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 4,228. The county was named for Thomas Barber, an abolitionist who was killed in Douglas County in 1855 during the Wakarusa War.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a rural lifestyle with a population density of just 3.6 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 57.5°F and 28.7 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 8a. However, the region experiences significant summer highs of 93.9°F and winter lows of 21.8°F, which may limit some agricultural options. Water availability is classified as humid, which is a positive aspect for self-sufficient living.
Barber County faces several natural hazards, notably drought (ranked 93) and wildfire risk (ranked 92), which could challenge agricultural endeavors. The area also has a cold wave risk (ranked 85) and hail (ranked 73), potentially impacting crops and livestock. While the violence percentile is at 58, indicating moderate safety concerns, the overall disaster percentile is 40, suggesting a relatively stable environment. Housing costs are reasonable, with a median home price of $83,300, but economic opportunities may be limited.
This county may suit individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a willingness to adapt to natural risks. Those who thrive here would likely be self-sufficient and prepared for challenges like drought and wildfires. However, individuals reliant on urban amenities or seeking high-density living may find this area unsuitable. The hidden gem for homesteaders could be the affordable housing market, while the dealbreaker might be the significant risk of drought affecting agricultural plans.