Chippewa County, MI
36,293 residents · 1,559 sq mi · 23.3/sq mi · 51% rural
About Chippewa County
Chippewa County is a county in the eastern Upper Peninsula of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 36,785. The county seat is Sault Ste. Marie. The county is named for the Ojibwe (Chippewa) people, and was set off and organized in 1826. Chippewa County comprises the Sault Ste. Marie, MI micropolitan statistical area. With shorelines on Lake Huron and Lake Superior, Chippewa County is one of two U.S. counties to contain shorelines on two Great Lakes, the other being neighboring Mackinac County. The county's irregular shape follows the Canadian border, itself following the St. Marys River. Drummond Island is part of Chippewa County.
Prepper Assessment
The county features a diverse terrain with significant shoreline along both Lake Huron and Lake Superior, providing ample opportunities for fishing and water access. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 41.3°F, with a growing season supported by USDA zone 6b. The area receives 34.2 inches of rainfall annually, which can benefit agricultural activities, but the winter temperatures can be challenging for year-round self-sufficiency. The rural nature, with 51% of the population living in rural areas, offers potential for land acquisition and outdoor living.
Natural hazards pose some risks in the county, notably wildfire, which has a FEMA risk ranking of 75. Cold waves and riverine flooding also present concerns, with rankings of 60 and 50, respectively. The population density is relatively low at 23.3 people per square mile, contributing to a safer environment, as indicated by a violence percentile of 15/100. However, the median home price of $142,000 and a property tax rate of 1.33% may present cost-of-living challenges for some homesteaders.
This county may be a good fit for those seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle with access to water resources and a community-oriented environment. Individuals who can manage the colder winters and are prepared for potential natural hazards may thrive here. Conversely, those who prefer milder climates or have limited experience with rural living may find the conditions less favorable. The proximity to two Great Lakes is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in fishing and water activities.