Kimball County, NE
3,315 residents · 952 sq mi · 3.5/sq mi · 100% rural
About Kimball County
Kimball County is a county in the U.S. state of Nebraska. As of the 2020 census, the population was 3,434. and was estimated to be 3,305 in 2024. The county seat and the largest city is Kimball.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a predominantly rural lifestyle, with a low population density of 3.5 people per square mile. The annual mean temperature is 47.6°F, with summer highs reaching 87.2°F and winter lows of 15.2°F. The growing season is moderate, supported by 16.6 inches of annual rainfall, making it suitable for a variety of crops in USDA zone 7b. However, the dry sub-humid climate may pose challenges for water-intensive farming practices.
Natural hazards are a significant consideration, with the county facing notable risks including hail (FEMA rank 81), drought (79), and ice storms (71). While the violence percentile is lower at 24/100, indicating a safer environment, the overall disaster percentile is quite favorable at 7/100. The cost of living is relatively low, with a median home price of $92,500 and an effective property tax rate of 1.91%, but broadband access is limited to 52% of households.
This county may appeal to self-sufficient individuals or families who value a quiet, rural lifestyle and can adapt to the climatic challenges. Those interested in agriculture will find opportunities, though they must be prepared for water management issues. Conversely, individuals reliant on high-speed internet or urban amenities may find this area less suitable, as the limited broadband access could be a dealbreaker for remote work or online business ventures.