Henry County, MO
22,438 residents · 697 sq mi · 32.2/sq mi · 60% rural
About Henry County
Henry County is a county located in the western portion of the U.S. state of Missouri. As of the 2020 census, the population was 21,946. Its county seat is Clinton. The county was organized December 13, 1834, as Rives County but was renamed in 1841 for Revolutionary War patriot Patrick Henry. The county originally had been named after William Cabell Rives, who was then serving as a U.S. Senator from Virginia. However, Rives lost popularity in Missouri after he joined the Whig Party.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban living, with a population density of 32.2 people per square mile, making it relatively spacious. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 55.8°F and 42.4 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for a variety of crops. The USDA zone 8a indicates that gardeners can grow a diverse range of plants, though the humid conditions may require attention to soil management and water conservation practices.
The county faces several natural hazards, with ice storms (FEMA rank 80) and drought (rank 79) being prominent risks. Strong winds, heat waves, and hail also pose challenges to self-sufficient living. The area has a higher violence percentile at 86/100, indicating potential safety concerns in certain locales. While housing is relatively affordable with a median home price of $153,600, the effective property tax rate of 0.80% may impact long-term financial planning for prospective homesteaders.
Henry County may suit individuals or families looking for an affordable, rural lifestyle with a decent growing climate. Those who thrive here will likely have the skills to manage the risks posed by weather extremes and are comfortable with the local safety dynamics. However, prospective homesteaders seeking a completely self-sufficient lifestyle might find the higher violence percentile and natural hazards to be significant dealbreakers, particularly if they prioritize security and stability.