Converse County, WY

Living in this area offers a mix of wide-open spaces and a dry sub-humid climate, with an annual mean temperature of 44.9°F and 14.3 inches of rain per year. The growing season is limited but falls within USDA zone 7a, allowing for a variety of crops. With a low population density of 3.2 people per square mile, residents can enjoy a sense of remoteness, though access to resources may require travel. The terrain is varied, providing potential for diverse agricultural practices but also presenting challenges in water management due to its aridity.

This county faces notable risks, particularly from wildfires, which rank high at FEMA 91, along with significant winter weather hazards (ranked 84). The cold wave risk (72) and landslide potential (60) also merit consideration for those looking to establish a homestead here. While the area is relatively safe from violence, with a percentile of 90, the cost of living is moderate, with median home prices around $251,700 and a property tax rate of 0.57%. These factors should be weighed carefully against the potential for self-sufficiency.

Converse County may suit those who value isolation and have the skills to cope with the area's climatic challenges. Homesteaders with experience in arid farming and resource management may thrive here, while those reliant on extensive infrastructure or amenities may find it difficult. The hidden gem for some could be the low property tax rate, but the dealbreaker might be the limited growing season and high wildfire risk, which could deter less experienced preppers from settling in this region.