San Juan County, WA
18,662 residents · 174 sq mi · 107.3/sq mi · 80% rural
About San Juan County
San Juan County is a county in the Salish Sea in the far northwestern corner of the U.S. state of Washington. As of the 2020 census, its population was 17,788. The county seat and only incorporated town is Friday Harbor, on San Juan Island. The county was formed on October 31, 1873, from Whatcom County and is named for the San Juan Islands, which are in turn named for Juan Vicente de Güemes, 2nd Count of Revillagigedo, the Viceroy of New Spain.
Prepper Assessment
Living in San Juan County offers a unique coastal environment with a temperate climate, characterized by an annual mean temperature of 50.8°F and 28.8 inches of rain per year. The growing season is supported by USDA zone 9b, allowing for a variety of crops. With 80% of the area being rural and a low population density of 107.3 people per square mile, residents can enjoy a remote lifestyle, though access to resources may be limited due to its island geography.
The county faces several natural hazards, with earthquakes ranked at a FEMA risk of 89, indicating a significant threat. Other notable risks include landslides and winter weather, both of which can impact self-sufficiency efforts. The median home price is considerably high at $673,700, which may be a barrier for many potential homesteaders. Additionally, while the violence percentile is lower at 29, the overall cost of living may be a concern for those on a tight budget.
San Juan County may suit those who prioritize a serene, rural lifestyle and have the financial means to invest in property. Individuals with experience in emergency preparedness and self-sufficient living would likely thrive here, especially given the area's natural beauty and resources. However, those seeking affordable housing or who are unprepared for the risks associated with earthquakes and other hazards might find this area challenging for long-term homesteading.