Garrett County, MD
28,579 residents · 649 sq mi · 44.0/sq mi · 84% rural
About Garrett County
Garrett County is the westernmost county of the U.S. state of Maryland, completely within the Appalachian Mountains. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 28,806, making it the third-least populous county in Maryland. Its county seat is Oakland. The county was named for John Work Garrett (1820–1884), president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. Created from Allegany County in 1872, it was the last county to be formed in the state. The county is part of the Western Maryland region of the state. Garrett County is bordered by four West Virginia counties and to the north the Maryland–Pennsylvania boundary known as the Mason–Dixon line. The eastern border with Allegany County was defined by the Bauer Report, submitted to Governor Lloyd Lowndes, Jr. on November 9, 1898. The Potomac River and State of West Virginia lie to the south and west.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area means engaging with a rugged, mountainous terrain that offers significant opportunities for self-sufficiency. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 48.3°F and receives 48.4 inches of rain per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops typical of USDA zone 7b. The rural character, with 84% of the population living outside urban areas, allows for a more peaceful lifestyle, although access to resources may be limited in remote regions.
While the natural beauty is a draw, there are notable risks to consider. The county faces a high risk of landslides (FEMA rank 77) and winter weather challenges (rank 64), which can disrupt daily life and agriculture. Additionally, the cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $220,100 and a median household income of $64,447, which may strain budgets for newcomers. The area's violence percentile is 35/100, indicating a relatively safer environment, but potential residents should remain aware of these factors.
This county is likely a good fit for individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with the ability to grow food and live off the land. Those who thrive here will appreciate the natural surroundings and are comfortable with the risks associated with mountainous living. However, urban dwellers or those reliant on high-speed internet may find the 55% broadband subscription rate limiting. For homesteaders, the significant landslide risk could be a dealbreaker, while the abundant natural resources may be a hidden gem for the right person.