Pike County, MO
17,664 residents · 670 sq mi · 26.3/sq mi · 100% rural
About Pike County
Pike County is a county on the eastern border of the U.S. state of Missouri, bounded by the Mississippi River. As of the 2020 census, the population was 17,587. Its county seat is Bowling Green. Its namesake was a city in middle Kentucky, a region from where many early migrants came. The county was organized December 14, 1818, and named for explorer Zebulon Pike. The folksong "Sweet Betsy from Pike" is generally thought to be associated with Pike County, Missouri.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a predominantly rural lifestyle with a low density of 26.3 people per square mile, which allows for ample space and privacy. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 54.0°F and receives about 40 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 8a. The humid water classification indicates a reliable source for farming and gardening, although the risk of heat waves may challenge some crops during the hotter months.
Natural hazards in this area include a high risk of heat waves (FEMA rank 89) and landslides (rank 84), which could pose significant challenges to self-sufficient living. The area also faces risks from earthquakes (rank 63) and strong winds (rank 56), though overall disaster percentile is at 40/100, indicating a moderate level of risk. While the county's violence percentile is relatively low at 32/100, the risk of isolation due to rural living may be a concern for some individuals, especially those accustomed to urban amenities.
This county is well-suited for those who prefer a quiet, rural lifestyle and have the skills or resources to manage potential risks associated with heat waves and other natural hazards. Homesteaders who thrive here will likely appreciate the affordable housing market, with a median home price of $114,100, and a manageable property tax rate of 0.82%. However, individuals seeking a more urban environment or those reliant on high-speed internet might find the 57% broadband subscription rate limiting and could struggle with the area's isolation.