Chisago County, MN
57,988 residents · 415 sq mi · 139.8/sq mi · 66% rural
About Chisago County
Chisago County is a county in the east-central part of the U.S. state of Minnesota. The county covers an area of 442 square miles and, as of the 2020 Census, had a population of 56,621 people. It is part of the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington Metropolitan Statistical Area. The county's largest city is North Branch. Within Chisago County is the Chisago Lakes area, which includes the combined areas of Shafer, Chisago City, Lindström, and Center City. Center City is the county seat. The county has a diverse economy, including manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban environments, with a population density of 139.8 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 44.0°F, with summer highs reaching 81.7°F and winter lows dropping to 4.2°F. The growing season aligns with USDA zone 6a, offering potential for a variety of crops. The region receives 31.9 inches of rain annually, supporting water needs for self-sufficient living, though the humid classification indicates a favorable moisture balance.
Natural hazards in this region include strong winds (FEMA rank 77) and hail (rank 76), which can impact agricultural productivity and property. While the area has a low violence percentile of 8/100, indicating a safer environment, the disaster percentile of 44/100 suggests that residents should be prepared for potential weather-related challenges. The median home price of $299,800 may present a barrier for some prospective homesteaders, especially those on a limited budget.
Chisago County may appeal to those seeking a balance of rural living with access to suburban amenities, particularly families or individuals with stable incomes. The lower violence rates and supportive community can be attractive to those prioritizing safety. However, potential homesteaders looking for extreme remoteness or a very low cost of living may find this area less suitable due to its population density and housing prices.