Buffalo County, WI
13,391 residents · 676 sq mi · 19.8/sq mi · 100% rural
About Buffalo County
Buffalo County is a county located in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. As of the 2020 census, the population was 13,317. Its county seat is Alma. The county was created in 1853 and organized the following year. The county is considered a high-farming concentration county by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, meaning at least 20 percent of its earnings came from agriculture.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a predominantly rural experience, with a population density of 19.8 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 45.3°F and an average of 35.5 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops, particularly in USDA zone 6b. The humid climate, with summer highs around 82.1°F and winter lows of 6.9°F, provides opportunities for self-sufficient living, though careful planning is needed to manage seasonal extremes.
Potential risks include a notable landslide hazard, ranked at FEMA's 91, which may pose challenges for building and land stability. Other risks such as hail and cold waves also rank moderately high, which could impact agricultural productivity. While the area has a relatively low violence percentile of 19, indicating a safer environment, the median home price of $182,900 and a property tax rate of 1.54% may present affordability concerns for some prospective residents.
This county could be a good fit for those seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture and self-sufficiency. Individuals with resilience to seasonal weather variations and a willingness to engage in farming will likely thrive here. However, those who prioritize urban amenities or are sensitive to natural hazards might find this area less suitable, especially considering the landslide risk and potential for severe weather events.