Ellis County, KS
28,941 residents · 900 sq mi · 32.2/sq mi · 24% rural
About Ellis County
Ellis County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and most populous city is Hays. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 28,934.
The county was named for George Ellis, a first lieutenant of the Twelfth Kansas Infantry.
Ellis County is the official German Capital of Kansas. German immigrants settled in Hays, Ellis, Victoria, and nearby villages in the 1870s and 1880s.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and accessible amenities, with a population density of 32.2 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 54.6°F and an average of 25 inches of rainfall per year, suitable for a growing season typical of USDA zone 7b. However, the dry sub-humid classification (aridity index 0.95) indicates that water conservation may be necessary for sustainable self-sufficiency.
The county faces several notable natural hazards, including high risks for hail (FEMA rank 85) and winter weather events (rank 83), which could disrupt agricultural activities and daily life. While the violence percentile is relatively moderate at 43/100, indicating a safer environment, the overall disaster percentile of 32/100 suggests that residents should be prepared for potential emergencies. The median home price of $199,100 may also present a barrier for some prospective homesteaders.
This county may be a good fit for individuals who can adapt to a rural lifestyle and are prepared for extreme weather conditions, particularly in winter. Those seeking a quieter, more affordable place to live with a strong sense of community may thrive here. However, the potential for severe weather and the need for water management could deter those unaccustomed to such challenges or seeking more temperate climates.