Stark County, ND
32,803 residents · 1,335 sq mi · 24.6/sq mi · 24% rural
About Stark County
Stark County is a county in the U.S. state of North Dakota. As of the 2020 census, the population was 33,646, and was estimated to be 34,013 in 2025, making it the 7th-most populous county in North Dakota. The county seat and the largest city is Dickinson.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this region means adapting to a dry sub-humid climate with an annual mean temperature of 42.4°F and average annual rainfall of 16.4 inches. The growing season is limited, typical of USDA zone 6a, with summer highs reaching 83.3°F and winter lows dropping to 4.9°F. The terrain is predominantly rural, providing ample space for self-sufficient living, though access to water sources may be a consideration due to the area's aridity index of 0.87.
Natural hazards are prominent in this area, with winter weather ranked as a significant concern (FEMA rank 97), followed by hail (86) and cold waves (82). The overall disaster percentile is 37, indicating a moderate risk of natural events. The population density is relatively low at 24.6 people per square mile, which may contribute to a quieter lifestyle, but the violence percentile of 22 suggests a safer environment compared to many other regions.
This county could be a good fit for those who value rural living and can manage the challenges of a harsh winter climate. Individuals or families looking for a quieter, more spacious environment may thrive here. However, those who are not prepared for severe winter conditions or who rely heavily on abundant water sources might find this area less suitable for their homesteading goals.