Asotin County, WA
22,508 residents · 636 sq mi · 35.4/sq mi · 7% rural
About Asotin County
Asotin County is a county in the far southeastern corner of the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 census, the population was 22,285. The county seat is at Asotin, and its largest city is Clarkston. The county was created out of Garfield County in 1883 and derives its name from a Nez Perce word meaning "Eel Creek." Asotin County is part of the Lewiston–Clarkston metropolitan area, which includes Nez Perce County, Idaho, and Asotin County.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of terrain with a population density of 35.4 people per square mile, providing a balance between rural and suburban living. The climate is classified as USDA zone 8a, with an annual mean temperature of 48.7°F and an average of 16.9 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is ample for many crops, but the dry sub-humid classification may limit water resources for extensive agriculture, requiring careful management of water use.
Natural hazards present certain risks, with wildfire rated at FEMA rank 89, indicating a notable threat in dry conditions. Landslide and avalanche risks are also significant, with rankings of 72 and 71, respectively. The area has a higher violence percentile at 80/100, suggesting concerns about safety. The median home price is $266,400, which may be challenging for those with limited budgets, particularly in a region where 7% of the population is rural.
This county may suit individuals or families seeking a semi-rural lifestyle with access to urban amenities, particularly those who can manage the risks associated with wildfires and landslides. Homesteaders willing to invest in infrastructure and water conservation may find opportunities here. However, those looking for a low-risk environment or affordable housing may find the cost prohibitive and the natural hazards concerning.