Carroll County, IA
20,567 residents · 570 sq mi · 36.1/sq mi · 51% rural
About Carroll County
Carroll County is a county located in the U.S. state of Iowa. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,760. Its county seat is Carroll. The county is named in honor of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and agricultural potential, with a population density of 36.1 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 48.0°F and receives about 34 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for many crops. The USDA zone 7a indicates that gardeners can cultivate a variety of fruits and vegetables, although the cold winter lows of 10.3°F may limit certain options. Water availability is decent, given the humid classification, which is beneficial for self-sufficient living.
However, there are notable risks to consider. The county faces significant natural hazards, including high risks for hail (ranked 97) and drought (ranked 95), along with tornadoes (ranked 86) and strong winds (ranked 84). The violence percentile at 27 indicates a relatively safer environment, but the overall disaster percentile of 58 suggests that residents should be prepared for various emergencies. Cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $162,000 and effective property tax at 1.09%, which may be manageable for many, but could pose challenges for some.
This area may be well-suited for individuals or families looking for a quieter, rural lifestyle with agricultural opportunities. Those who thrive here would likely appreciate the community-oriented atmosphere and the potential for self-sufficiency. Conversely, individuals looking for urban amenities or those unprepared for the risks associated with severe weather may find it less appealing. A dealbreaker for many might be the high hail and tornado risks, while a hidden gem could be the affordability of housing in relation to median income.