Boone County, MO
187,690 residents · 686 sq mi · 273.8/sq mi · 23% rural
About Boone County
Boone County is located in the U.S. state of Missouri. Centrally located the state's Mid-Missouri region, its county seat is in Columbia, which is Missouri's fourth-largest city and location of the University of Missouri. As of the 2020 U.S. census, the county's population was listed as 183,610, making it the state's eighth-most populous county or county equivalent. The county was organized November 16, 1820, removed from the former larger Howard County of the old federal Missouri Territory of 1812-1821, and named for the famous Western explorer and settler of Kentucky, then recently deceased Daniel Boone (1734-1820), whose kin largely populated the Boonslick area, having arrived in the 1810s on the Boone's Lick Road.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a diverse terrain with a mix of rural and urban environments, as reflected in its 23% rural population. The climate is classified as humid, with an annual mean temperature of 54.8°F and 42.1 inches of rainfall per year, providing a decent growing season for various crops in USDA zone 8a. However, the summer highs can reach 87.6°F, which may pose challenges for certain crops if water access is limited during peak heat periods.
Natural hazards are a significant concern, with the county facing a high risk of heat waves (94) and severe weather events such as tornadoes (92) and strong winds (91). The population density is relatively high at 273.8 people per square mile, which may lead to increased competition for resources. The median home price of $237,600 might be a barrier for some aspiring homesteaders, while the effective property tax rate of 0.92% is relatively manageable.
This county may be suitable for individuals or families who appreciate a blend of rural and urban living while being prepared for severe weather events. Those with experience in emergency preparedness and a solid plan for resource management may thrive here. However, individuals seeking complete isolation or minimal population density may find the area's higher density and risks a dealbreaker.