Guernsey County, OH
38,098 residents · 522 sq mi · 73.0/sq mi · 63% rural
About Guernsey County
Guernsey County is a county located in the east-central portion of the U.S. state of Ohio. As of the 2020 census, the population was 38,438. Its county seat and largest city is Cambridge. It is named from the Isle of Guernsey in the English Channel, from which many of the county's early settlers emigrated.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban living, with a population density of 73.0 people per square mile. The climate is temperate, with an annual mean temperature of 51.8°F and about 41.4 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops. The USDA hardiness zone 8a indicates the potential for diverse gardening, but the terrain may pose challenges for certain types of agriculture due to the risk of landslides and other natural hazards.
Natural hazards are a significant consideration, as the county ranks high for landslide risk (FEMA rank 87) and also faces threats from hail, drought, and flooding. While the violence percentile is moderate at 40/100, indicating a relatively safe environment, the overall disaster percentile at 37/100 suggests that residents should be prepared for potential emergencies. The cost of living is reasonable, with a median home price of $145,800 and a property tax rate of 1.01%, but broadband access is limited to 58% of households.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a semi-rural lifestyle with moderate climate advantages for agriculture. Those who are self-sufficient and can navigate the risks of natural hazards will likely thrive here. However, urban dwellers accustomed to high-speed internet and extensive services may find the limited broadband and rural amenities challenging. The dealbreaker for some might be the high landslide risk, while others may appreciate the affordability and potential for a slower-paced life.