Washington County, MN
275,912 residents · 385 sq mi · 717.2/sq mi · 13% rural
About Washington County
Washington County is a county in the U.S. state of Minnesota. As of the 2020 census, the population was 267,568, making it the fifth-most populous county in Minnesota. Its county seat is Stillwater. The largest city in the county is Woodbury, the seventh-largest city in Minnesota and the third-largest Twin Cities suburb. Washington County is included in the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area, residents experience a humid climate with an annual mean temperature of 45.1°F and an average of 33 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is moderately favorable, typical of USDA zone 6b, which allows for a variety of crops. However, the county's 385 square miles are densely populated, with 717.2 people per square mile, limiting the availability of large tracts of land for self-sufficient living. Access to water is generally good, but the high population density may impact resources.
The county faces significant natural hazards, including strong winds, hail, and tornadoes, with FEMA hazard ranks of 98, 95, and 94 respectively, indicating a high risk for these events. Additionally, while the area has a low violence percentile at 4/100, the high density may contribute to other social stresses. Housing costs are relatively high, with a median home price of $379,300, which may be a barrier for those seeking affordable homesteading options.
This county may suit individuals or families who prioritize access to urban amenities while still having some rural characteristics. Those who thrive here are likely to be comfortable with a higher cost of living and the potential for natural disasters. However, aspiring homesteaders seeking large, remote parcels of land may find the density and housing market to be significant dealbreakers, limiting their self-sufficient lifestyle options.