Carter County, MO
5,268 residents · 507 sq mi · 10.4/sq mi · 100% rural
About Carter County
Carter County is a county in the Ozarks of Missouri. At the 2020 census, it had a population of 5,202. The largest city and county seat is Van Buren. The county was officially organized on March 10, 1859, and is named after Zimri A. Carter, a pioneer settler who came to Missouri from South Carolina in 1812.
Prepper Assessment
Carter County features a rural landscape with a population density of just 10.4 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is classified as humid with an annual mean temperature of 56.9°F and an average rainfall of 49.1 inches per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 8a. However, the area is prone to occasional extreme weather, which could impact agricultural efforts and water management.
Natural hazards pose notable risks in this area, with earthquakes ranked at 82 and cold waves at 79 on FEMA's hazard scale. Additionally, landslides and ice storms are also significant concerns, which could disrupt daily life and safety. The cost of living is relatively moderate, with a median home price of $181,100 and a low property tax rate of 0.43%, but the economic opportunities may be limited, as indicated by a median household income of $45,737.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency and outdoor living. Those comfortable with potential natural hazards and who can adapt to limited economic opportunities may thrive here. However, individuals seeking urban amenities, robust job markets, or lower risks from natural disasters might find this location challenging.