Oxford County, ME
59,495 residents · 2,077 sq mi · 28.6/sq mi · 83% rural
About Oxford County
Oxford County is a county in the state of Maine, United States. As of the 2020 Census, the county had a population of 57,777. Its county seat is the town of Paris. The county was formed on March 4, 1805, by the Massachusetts General Court in the Maine District from northerly portions of York and Cumberland counties. It borders the Canadian province of Quebec.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a predominantly rural landscape with a population density of 28.6 people per square mile, offering ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 42.2°F and an average of 47.8 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for diverse crops in USDA zone 6b. However, residents should prepare for significant winter weather, including snow and ice, which can impact daily life and agricultural activities.
Natural hazards pose notable risks in this county, particularly winter weather events that rank high on FEMA's scale, including winter storms (95) and ice storms (92). The area also faces risks from hurricanes (86) and riverine flooding (73), which may affect homestead security. While the overall violence percentile is relatively moderate at 44, the county's population density percentile of 37 indicates that it is less populated, potentially leading to fewer community resources in times of crisis.
This county may be suitable for individuals or families seeking a remote, rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency, especially those willing to adapt to harsh winters. Homesteaders who thrive here will appreciate the affordable housing market, with a median home price of $176,800. However, those unprepared for extreme winter conditions or who rely heavily on year-round access to services may find the challenges of this area a dealbreaker.