Burke County, ND
2,155 residents · 1,104 sq mi · 2.0/sq mi · 100% rural
About Burke County
Burke County is a county on the north edge of the U.S. state of North Dakota, adjacent to the south line of Canada. As of the 2020 census, the population was 2,201, and was estimated to be 2,132 in 2025. The county seat is Bowbells and the largest city is Powers Lake. The county is named after John Burke, the tenth Governor of North Dakota.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a rural lifestyle with a low population density of 2.0 people per square mile, making it suitable for those seeking remoteness. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 38.9°F, with a growing season supported by USDA zone 5b, though the colder winters can be challenging. With 17.7 inches of annual rainfall, water availability is moderate, but the dry sub-humid classification indicates potential limits for crop production without irrigation.
This county faces notable winter weather risks, ranking 50th in FEMA's hazard assessment, which includes cold waves and ice storms. While the violence percentile is 42, indicating a relatively safer environment, the overall disaster percentile is remarkably low at 1, suggesting minimal risk from natural disasters. The median home price of $135,100 is affordable, but the harsh winters could deter those unprepared for extreme cold and snow.
Burke County is well-suited for individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency and resilience against natural disasters. Those with experience in cold-weather farming or who can adapt to long winters may thrive here. However, individuals seeking a milder climate or urban amenities may find the area's harsh winters and remote location to be significant drawbacks.