Putnam County, OH
34,334 residents · 483 sq mi · 71.2/sq mi · 84% rural
About Putnam County
Putnam County is a county located in the northwestern part of the U.S. state of Ohio. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 34,451. Its county seat is Ottawa. The county was created in 1820 and later organized in 1834. Its name is in honor of Israel Putnam, a colonial officer in the French and Indian War, who served as a general in the American Revolutionary War. The Blanchard River, which passes through the county, was a key transportation route for early European-American settlers.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural landscapes with a population density of 71.2 people per square mile, making it relatively spacious. The climate is classified as humid with an annual mean temperature of 51.1°F and 37.5 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season benefits from USDA zone 7b, allowing for a variety of crops to thrive. However, the winter lows can drop to 19°F, which may limit certain types of gardening during colder months.
Natural hazards include hail (ranked 68), ice storms (58), and earthquakes (54), which are significant considerations for potential residents. The county's violence percentile is at 30, indicating a lower risk of violent crime, which is favorable for safety. The cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $176,200 and a household income of $79,453, but individuals seeking a more remote lifestyle may find the population density less appealing.
This county could be a good fit for those who value access to rural living with reasonable safety and a decent growing season. Homesteaders looking for a balanced lifestyle with moderate amenities may thrive here. However, those who prioritize extreme remoteness or are highly sensitive to natural disaster risks might find the area less suitable due to its notable hazards and population density.