Glacier County, MT
13,681 residents · 2,995 sq mi · 4.6/sq mi · 100% rural
About Glacier County
Glacier County is located in the U.S. state of Montana. As of the 2020 census, the population was 13,778. The county is located in northwestern Montana between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains, known to the Blackfeet as the "Backbone of the World". The county is geographically and culturally diverse and includes the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Glacier National Park, and Lewis and Clark National Forest. The county is bordered by 75 miles of international boundary with two ports of entry open year-round and one seasonal international border crossing into Alberta, Canada.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a rugged, rural lifestyle with an average population density of just 4.6 people per square mile. The climate features a temperate range with an annual mean temperature of 39.8°F and a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7a. With 24.1 inches of annual rainfall, water availability is relatively good, but the cold winters with lows around 13.0°F may limit year-round outdoor activities and crop production for some self-sufficient endeavors.
The county faces significant natural hazards, including a high risk of cold waves and winter weather, ranked 92 and 91 respectively by FEMA. Wildfire and avalanche risks are also considerable, with rankings of 85 and 84. Additionally, with a violence percentile of 85, safety may be a concern for some residents. The cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $139,400, but the relatively low median household income of $41,078 could affect financial stability for newcomers.
This area may appeal to those seeking a remote, rural lifestyle with a strong connection to nature and outdoor activities. Individuals comfortable with cold weather and willing to manage potential natural hazards may thrive here. However, those reliant on urban amenities or warmer climates might find the county's harsh winters and limited broadband access, at only 45% subscription, to be significant drawbacks.