Clinton County, MO
21,328 residents · 419 sq mi · 50.9/sq mi · 76% rural
About Clinton County
Clinton County is county located in the U.S. state of Missouri and is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the county had a population of 21,184. Its county seat is Plattsburg. The county was organized January 2, 1833, and named for Governor DeWitt Clinton of New York. The county seat of Plattsburg derives its name from a town of a similar name that is the county seat of Clinton County, New York, which was also named for the Governor.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural landscapes with a population density of 50.9 people per square mile, allowing for some remoteness while still being part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. The climate is classified as humid with an annual mean temperature of 53.4°F and about 39 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is favorable for self-sufficient living, supported by USDA zone 7b, allowing for a variety of crops and gardening opportunities.
Natural hazards pose notable risks, with hail ranked at FEMA level 81 and tornadoes at 72, making severe weather a significant concern. The county also faces cold waves and droughts, both ranked 70 and 68 respectively. Although the violence percentile is relatively low at 34, the population density percentile of 54 indicates a moderate level of human activity, which could affect the sense of safety and community for some individuals. The median home price of $187,200 may be a barrier for those looking for affordable housing.
Clinton County may suit individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with access to urban amenities, particularly those who can manage the risks associated with severe weather. Gardeners and small-scale farmers may thrive here due to the favorable climate and growing conditions. However, those who are highly risk-averse or looking for a completely remote location might find the area's natural hazards and moderate population density to be dealbreakers.