Bayfield County, WI
16,608 residents · 1,478 sq mi · 11.2/sq mi · 100% rural
About Bayfield County
Bayfield County is a county located in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. As of the 2020 census, its population is 16,220. Its county seat is Washburn. The county was created in 1845 and organized in 1850. The Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa has a reservation in Bayfield County and is the county's largest employer. The county is considered a high-recreation retirement destination by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a rural lifestyle with a population density of just 11.2 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate features a mean annual temperature of 40.7°F, with a growing season suitable for USDA zone 6a. The region receives 31.8 inches of rainfall annually, which supports diverse agricultural practices. However, the cold winters, with lows averaging 3.4°F, can limit year-round growing opportunities and require robust housing solutions for warmth.
This county faces notable natural hazards, particularly cold waves and winter weather, which rank at 86 and 85 respectively on the FEMA scale. While the area has a relatively low violence percentile at 72/100, indicating a safer environment, the risk of strong winds and lightning (ranked 64 and 62) should also be considered. The median home price of $214,700 is reasonable, but property taxes at 1.12% and the cost of living may be a concern for some potential residents.
Bayfield County is well-suited for individuals seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on outdoor recreation and self-sufficiency. Those with experience in cold-weather living and who can adapt to the challenges of winter would thrive here. However, individuals who prefer milder climates or urban amenities may find the harsh winters and remote nature of this area to be a dealbreaker, limiting its appeal for some homesteaders.