Bourbon County, KY
20,093 residents · 290 sq mi · 69.3/sq mi · 44% rural
About Bourbon County
Bourbon County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,252. Its county seat is Paris. Bourbon County is part of the Lexington-Fayette, KY Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is one of Kentucky's nine original counties, and is best known for its historical association with bourbon whiskey.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and moderate climate, with an annual mean temperature of 55.1°F and an average of 49.2 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is conducive to a variety of crops, especially given the USDA zone 8a classification. The terrain is mostly rural, providing ample space for self-sufficient living, but the population density of 69.3 people per square mile may limit complete isolation for those seeking extreme remoteness.
Natural hazards pose significant risks, with strong winds ranked at 77 and tornadoes at 59 on the FEMA scale, indicating a notable potential for severe weather events. While the violence percentile is relatively low at 22, the disaster percentile of 39 suggests a moderate risk level for various emergencies. Additionally, the median home price of $187,700 might be challenging for some to afford, particularly in relation to the median household income of $54,580.
This county may suit those who appreciate a balance of rural living with some community amenities, particularly individuals interested in agriculture or homesteading within a manageable climate. However, those seeking extreme isolation or minimal risk from natural disasters may find the area less appealing. The hidden gem here is the relatively low cost of property taxes at 0.81%, which could support a sustainable lifestyle for the right homesteader.