Kewaunee County, WI
20,623 residents · 343 sq mi · 60.2/sq mi · 100% rural
About Kewaunee County
Kewaunee County is a county located in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,563. Its county seat is Kewaunee. The county was created in 1852 and organized in 1859. Its Menominee name is Kewāneh, an archaic name for a species of duck. Kewaunee County is part of the Green Bay, WI Metropolitan Statistical Area as well as the Green Bay-Shawano, WI Combined Statistical Area. Uniquely in Wisconsin, the county is considered both a high-farming concentration county and a high-manufacturing county by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, meaning at least 20 percent of its earnings came from agriculture and at least 25 percent came from manufacturing.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural landscapes with an annual mean temperature of 44.5°F, which supports a growing season suitable for a variety of crops, particularly in USDA zone 7a. The 31.9 inches of annual rainfall contributes to adequate water resources for self-sufficient living. However, the cold winters with lows around 11.2°F may limit year-round outdoor activities and certain crop options. The population density of 60.2 people per square mile indicates a relatively spacious environment for homesteading.
Natural hazards are a significant consideration in this region, with the FEMA disaster percentile at 17, indicating lower risk compared to other areas. However, cold waves (ranked 67) and hail (ranked 63) present notable risks, alongside tornadoes and strong winds. The area's violence percentile is 34, suggesting a moderate level of safety. Additionally, the median home price of $191,500 may be a barrier for some aspiring homesteaders, though the median household income of $77,610 provides a reasonable economic backdrop.
Kewaunee County may be a good fit for those seeking a rural lifestyle with access to agricultural opportunities, particularly for individuals who can manage the colder climate. Homesteaders with experience in cold-weather farming and those who value space and a lower population density may thrive here. However, potential residents should carefully consider the risks associated with severe weather and the housing market before committing, as these factors could deter less experienced homesteaders or those seeking a milder climate.