Harney County, OR
7,515 residents · 10,134 sq mi · 0.7/sq mi · 44% rural
About Harney County
Harney County is one of the 36 counties in the U.S. state of Oregon. As of the 2020 census, the population was 7,495, making it the sixth-least populous county in Oregon. The county seat is Burns. Established in 1889, the county is named in honor of William S. Harney, a military officer of the period, who was involved in the Pig War and popular in the Pacific Northwest.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this county offers a semi-arid climate, with an annual mean temperature of 46.4°F and 12.6 inches of precipitation per year. The growing season is limited, typical for USDA zone 7b, affecting the types of crops that can be successfully cultivated. The terrain is expansive and remote, with a low population density of 0.7 people per square mile, providing opportunities for self-sufficient living but also requiring significant commitment to infrastructure and resource management.
The county faces notable natural hazards, including a high wildfire risk ranked at 96 by FEMA, which could threaten homesteading efforts. Additionally, landslides, volcano activity, and avalanches pose further risks, though the area has a relatively low disaster percentile of 23. While housing is affordable with a median home price of $174,100, the cost of living may still be a concern, especially for those reliant on broadband access, which is only available to 45% of households.
This area may be suitable for experienced homesteaders who are well-prepared for isolation and natural hazards. Those who thrive here will appreciate the vast open spaces and low population density. However, individuals or families seeking a more connected community or those without experience in managing remote living conditions may find this county challenging. A dealbreaker might be the high wildfire risk, while the hidden gem could be the affordability of land in a largely undeveloped region.