Denver County, CO
713,252 residents · 153 sq mi · 4,659.5/sq mi
About Denver County
Denver is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Colorado. Officially a consolidated city and county, it is located in the South Platte River valley on the western edge of the High Plains, and is just east of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains (Rockies). Denver is the 19th-most populous city in the United States and the fifth-most populous state capital, with a population of 715,522 at the 2020 census. The ten-county Denver metropolitan area, with 3.1 million residents, is the 19th-largest metropolitan area in the country and functions as the economic and cultural center of the broader Front Range Urban Corridor.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area means navigating a highly urban environment with a population density of 4,659.5 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 51.1°F and 15.1 inches of rainfall per year, which supports a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7b. However, the dry sub-humid classification indicates limited water availability, posing challenges for self-sufficient living. While access to amenities is high, the urban landscape may restrict traditional homesteading practices.
The county faces significant natural hazards, particularly hail (ranked 100) and tornadoes (ranked 98), which can pose risks to property and safety. The high population density may also lead to increased crime concerns, with a violence percentile of 39 suggesting a moderate risk. Additionally, the median home price of $540,400 could be a barrier for those seeking affordable land for homesteading. The overall prepper suitability score of 22/100 indicates numerous challenges for self-sufficiency.
This area may suit individuals who prioritize urban living with access to services and amenities, particularly those who work in Denver's economic hub. However, traditional homesteaders, especially those looking for rural land to cultivate and live off-grid, are likely to find this county unsuitable. The primary dealbreaker is the high population density and associated costs, while the hidden gem may be the availability of broadband, supporting remote work opportunities.