Essex County, NY
36,910 residents · 1,794 sq mi · 20.6/sq mi · 87% rural
About Essex County
Essex County is a county in the U.S. state of New York. As of the 2020 census, the population was 37,381. Its county seat is the hamlet of Elizabethtown. Its name is from the English county of Essex. Essex is one of two counties that are entirely within the Adirondack Park, the other being Hamilton County. The county is part of the North Country region of the state.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and natural beauty, with 86% of the county being rural and a population density of 20.6 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 42.0°F, with summer highs averaging 76.7°F and winter lows dropping to 6.8°F. This region falls within USDA zone 6b, allowing for a growing season suitable for various crops, though the relatively high annual rainfall of 45.2 inches may pose some challenges for drainage in certain areas.
Potential risks include a range of natural hazards, with landslides ranked as a significant concern at FEMA rank 98, along with avalanches and riverine flooding. The area has a lower violence percentile at 3/100, indicating a safer environment in terms of crime. However, the effective property tax rate of 1.73% and a median home price of $189,500 may be a consideration for those looking to establish a homestead on a budget, especially given the median household income of $68,090.
Essex County may appeal to those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with ample opportunities for self-sufficiency, particularly for individuals comfortable managing the risks associated with the natural environment. However, those who prefer a milder climate or are averse to the potential for extreme weather events may find this area less suitable. The hidden gem here is the low violence rate, which could be attractive for families or individuals prioritizing safety in their homesteading endeavors.