Cherokee County, KS
19,088 residents · 588 sq mi · 32.5/sq mi · 100% rural
About Cherokee County
Cherokee County is a U.S. county located in Southeast Kansas. Its county seat is Columbus, and its most populous city is Baxter Springs. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 19,362. The county was named for the Cherokee tribe. Cherokee County is considered part of the Joplin, Missouri, metropolitan area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a predominantly rural experience with a population density of 32.5 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 58.1°F and receives 45.3 inches of rainfall each year, supporting a humid environment conducive to agriculture. The growing season is extended due to the USDA zone 8b classification, which allows for a variety of crops. However, the risk of drought, ranked at 93 by FEMA, may pose challenges for consistent self-sufficiency.
The leading natural hazards in this area include drought, ice storms, and tornadoes, with respective FEMA rankings of 93, 85, and 74. The violence percentile at 85 suggests that while the area is generally safer than many others, there may still be concerns in certain contexts. The cost of living is relatively low, with a median home price of $91,800 and a property tax rate of 1.32%, but the economic opportunities may be limited given the median household income of $53,382.
This county may suit individuals or families seeking an affordable, rural lifestyle with the potential for agricultural pursuits. Those who thrive here will likely have skills in farming or self-sufficiency and can manage the risks associated with natural hazards. However, individuals looking for urban amenities, robust job markets, or high-speed internet access may find the area lacking, as only 57% of households have broadband subscriptions, which could be a dealbreaker for remote work or modern connectivity needs.