Plumas County, CA
19,351 residents · 2,553 sq mi · 7.6/sq mi · 100% rural
About Plumas County
Plumas County is a county located in the Sierra Nevada of the U.S. state of California. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 19,790. The county seat is Quincy, and the only incorporated city is Portola. The largest community in the county is East Quincy. The county was named for the Spanish Río de las Plumas, which flows through it. It is also the namesake of a native moth species, Hadena plumasata.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a blend of mountainous terrain and rural seclusion, with a population density of just 7.6 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 47.9°F with significant rainfall of 41.3 inches per year, supporting diverse plant growth. The growing season is moderate, suitable for various crops in USDA zone 8a, though the colder winters with lows around 24°F may limit some agricultural activities. Water availability is generally good due to the humid classification.
However, the county faces notable natural hazards, ranking high in wildfire risk at FEMA rank 99, along with significant threats from earthquakes, landslides, and riverine flooding. The disaster percentile is 86, indicating a higher likelihood of experiencing severe events. Additionally, while the population is sparse, the violence percentile at 29 suggests a relatively safe environment, though potential residents should be mindful of costs, with median home prices at $310,100 and an effective property tax rate of 0.68%.
This county is well-suited for individuals seeking a remote, rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency, particularly those experienced in managing agricultural challenges and natural hazards. It may appeal to those who value privacy and a slower pace of life. However, it might not be ideal for those reliant on urban amenities or with limited experience in disaster preparedness, given the area's significant natural risks and housing costs.