St. Croix County, WI
96,017 residents · 722 sq mi · 133.0/sq mi · 64% rural
About St. Croix County
St. Croix County is a county in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. As of the 2020 census, the population was 93,536. Its county seat is Hudson. The county was created in 1840 and organized in 1849. St. Croix County is part of the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI Metropolitan Statistical Area. Between 2000 and 2010, it was Wisconsin's fastest-growing county. Its growth has continued since 2010 in part due to people moving out of the central Minneapolis-St. Paul counties and into St. Croix County.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban environments, with a population density of 133 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by a humid continental type, with an annual mean temperature of 44.1°F and a growing season suitable for USDA zone 6b. Rainfall averages 33.7 inches per year, which supports diverse agriculture and gardening. However, the winter lows of 5.1°F may pose challenges for year-round growing without proper planning and infrastructure.
Natural hazards include strong winds, hail, tornadoes, and cold waves, with strong wind ranked at a FEMA hazard level of 94, indicating a significant risk. The area has a relatively low violence percentile at 5/100, suggesting safety from violent crime. However, the median home price of $323,900 and property tax rate of 1.29% may be a barrier for some prospective homesteaders, particularly those on a limited budget.
This county may appeal to those seeking a suburban-rural lifestyle with access to urban amenities. Individuals or families who can afford the housing costs and are prepared for the climate's seasonal extremes are likely to thrive. However, those looking for a low-cost, isolated homesteading experience may find the population density and housing market challenging, making it less suitable for those seeking total self-sufficiency in a remote setting.