Sumner County, KS
22,473 residents · 1,182 sq mi · 19.0/sq mi · 63% rural
About Sumner County
Sumner County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat is Wellington. As of the 2020 census, the population was 22,382. The county is named after Charles Sumner, a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts who was a leader of Reconstruction politics.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and agricultural opportunity, with a population density of 19.0 people per square mile and 63% of the land classified as rural. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 58.2°F and 35.1 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops, particularly in USDA zone 8a. However, the region can experience extreme summer highs of 93.2°F and winter lows of 23.2°F, which may challenge some self-sufficient living endeavors.
Natural hazards pose notable risks in the area, with hail (FEMA rank 81) and tornadoes (rank 79) being the most pressing concerns. Drought (rank 78) and ice storms (rank 74) also pose significant challenges for agriculture and daily life. The violence percentile of 62 indicates a moderate level of safety, while the disaster percentile of 49 suggests average risk from natural disasters. Additionally, the median home price of $116,400 could be a barrier for some, despite the relatively low effective property tax rate of 1.63%.
This county may be a good fit for those seeking a rural lifestyle with agricultural potential and lower housing costs. Individuals comfortable with the risks of severe weather and who have some experience in farming or self-sufficient living would likely thrive here. However, those who prefer urban amenities or are unprepared for the potential hazards may find it challenging. The trade-off of lower population density and rural living may be a hidden gem for some, while a dealbreaker for others.