Scioto County, OH
72,194 residents · 610 sq mi · 118.3/sq mi · 55% rural
About Scioto County
Scioto County is a county along the Ohio River in the south-central part of the U.S. state of Ohio. At the 2020 census, the population was 74,008. Its county seat is Portsmouth. The county was founded on March 24, 1804, from Adams County and is named for a Native American word referring to deer or deer-hunting. Scioto County comprises the Portsmouth, OH Micropolitan Statistical Area. It is at the confluence of the Scioto and Ohio rivers.
Prepper Assessment
The county features a mix of rural and urban landscapes, with a population density of 118.3 people per square mile, indicating a relatively populated area for a mostly rural setting. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 54.3°F and an average of 42.8 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 8a. However, residents may need to consider the humid conditions and the potential for flooding due to the proximity to the Ohio River.
Natural hazards pose some risks in this area, with significant concerns including heat waves (FEMA rank 91), riverine flooding (rank 82), and landslides (rank 86). The county's overall disaster percentile is at 70, indicating a higher likelihood of experiencing natural disasters compared to other regions. Additionally, while the violence percentile is relatively low at 21, the population density may still present some safety concerns for those seeking true remoteness.
This county may suit individuals or families looking for an affordable living situation, with a median home price of $122,900 and a median household income of $46,360. Those who thrive in this environment will likely appreciate the community aspect and the availability of resources. However, serious preppers or homesteaders may find the risk of flooding and other natural hazards to be significant dealbreakers, making it less ideal for those seeking complete self-sufficiency in a low-risk area.