Pulaski County, MO
53,941 residents · 547 sq mi · 98.6/sq mi · 41% rural
About Pulaski County
Pulaski County is a county located in the U.S. state of Missouri. As of the 2020 census, the population was 53,955. Its county seat is Waynesville. The county was organized in 1833 and named for Kazimierz Pułaski, a Polish patriot who died fighting in the American Revolution. Pulaski County is the site of Fort Leonard Wood, a U.S. Army training base. It comprises the Fort Leonard Wood, MO Micropolitan Statistical Area which has nearly one-third of the total county population.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural and suburban characteristics, with a population density of 98.6 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 56.1°F, with a growing season suitable for USDA zone 8a. The county receives 43.9 inches of rain annually, which supports diverse agricultural activities. However, the humid climate may pose challenges for certain crops and livestock, requiring careful planning for water management and seasonal variations.
This county faces several natural hazards, with heat waves ranked at 90 and ice storms at 85 on the FEMA scale, indicating a significant risk for extreme weather events. While the population density is relatively moderate, making it less crowded, the violence percentile is 55, suggesting average safety concerns. Additionally, the median home price of $177,400 may be a barrier for some, especially when considering the effective property tax rate of 0.61%.
Pulaski County may suit individuals or families seeking a balance of rural life and access to community services, particularly those who can adapt to extreme weather conditions. Homesteaders with experience in managing diverse crops and livestock may thrive here, but those seeking a completely isolated or low-risk environment might find the natural hazards and population density to be significant drawbacks. A hidden gem for potential residents is the county's reasonable housing market, which offers opportunities for affordable land ownership.