Pierce County, ND
3,942 residents · 1,018 sq mi · 3.9/sq mi · 100% rural
About Pierce County
Pierce County is a county in the U.S. state of North Dakota. As of the 2020 census, the population was 3,990, and was estimated to be 3,853 in 2024. The county seat and the largest city is Rugby.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a vast rural landscape with a low population density of 3.9 people per square mile, making it suitable for individuals seeking isolation and self-sufficiency. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 39.1°F and 18.5 inches of rainfall per year, which supports a growing season in USDA zone 5b. While summers can reach highs of 80.1°F, winters are harsh with lows around -2.7°F, presenting challenges for year-round living and crop production.
Natural hazards in this area include winter weather, with a FEMA ranking of 71, and cold waves at 60, indicating significant risks during the colder months. While the area has a lower violence percentile of 42, suggesting relative safety, the overall disaster percentile is quite low at 3, indicating a lack of severe natural threats. The median home price of $154,400 is reasonable, but the harsh winters may deter those unprepared for extreme cold and snow.
This county is ideal for individuals or families who are well-prepared for cold climates and can adapt to rural living. Homesteaders who thrive here will likely be those with experience in winter gardening and livestock management. However, those who prefer milder climates or more urban amenities may find the area challenging. The primary dealbreaker could be the extreme winter conditions, while the low population density and reasonable housing costs may be appealing to others seeking a quieter lifestyle.