Hunt & Live

Adams County, ID

4,817 residents · 1,363 sq mi · 3.5/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
44°F
30.6" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.68
Hardiness
Zone 7b
Winter low ~8.2°F

About Adams County

Adams County is a rural county in the state of Idaho. As of the 2020 census, the county had a population of 4,379, making it the sixth-least populous county in Idaho. The county seat and largest city is Council. Established in 1911, the county was named for second U.S. President John Adams. Adams County is home to the Brundage Mountain ski area, northeast of New Meadows, and the Little Ski Hill, just west of McCall.

82
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #166 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a rural experience with a low population density of 3.5 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 44.0°F and 30.6 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7b. Water availability is adequate due to a humid classification, but the terrain may present challenges for certain types of agriculture. The region's natural beauty and recreational opportunities, such as nearby ski areas, enhance its appeal for self-sufficient living.

While the county boasts a low violence rate, it faces significant natural hazards, including a high wildfire risk ranked at FEMA 97, landslides at 92, and avalanches at 86. These risks may deter some from settling here. The median home price of $284,300, alongside a median household income of $55,891, suggests that affordability could be a concern for potential homesteaders. Additionally, only 60% of households have broadband access, which may limit connectivity for those who rely on the internet for work or communication.

This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a remote lifestyle with a strong connection to nature and outdoor activities. Those who can manage the risks associated with wildfires and landslides may thrive here, especially if they are experienced in rural living. However, the cost of housing and limited broadband access could be dealbreakers for those who require modern conveniences or a stable income. Overall, it suits self-sufficient homesteaders who value solitude and resilience.

AI-generated analysis based on county data (climate, hazards, density, housing, economy). For general orientation only.

Key Facts

Ranked #1,474 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#29 of 44 in ID
Ranked #29 of 44 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: wildfire
FEMA ranks wildfire risk at 97/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Extremely rural
Only 3.5 people per square mile — fewer than 5/sqmi places you in the bottom 5% nationally for density.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 44.0°F annual mean and 30.6" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 7b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $284,300.

Score Breakdown

Violence
8
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
39
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
8
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
39.6
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Avalanche 86
Cold Wave 5
Drought 13
Earthquake 37
Hail 4
Heat Wave 18
Riverine Flood 36
Ice Storm 3
Landslide 92
Lightning 10
Strong Wind 3
Tornado 3
Volcano 17
Wildfire 97
Winter Weather 41

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
82.1°F
Winter low
18.2°F
Heating degree days
7,862
Cooling degree days
240

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$284,300
Median HH income
$55,891
Price to income
5.1×
Property tax rate
0.44%
~$1,262/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
54.4
Homeownership
83.8%
Poverty rate
14.6%
Unemployment
8.7%

Connectivity

Broadband households
59.9%
No internet access
12.4%

Explore Adams County Further

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Data sources. Prepper scores are national percentile ranks of firearm fatalities (County Health Rankings 2024 / CDC WONDER), FEMA National Risk Index 2023 composite disaster score, and population density (ACS 2022 + TIGER 2022 land area). Climate from NOAA nClimDiv 1991–2020 normals. Hardiness zone is estimated from climate data and may differ from the official USDA PHZM. Demographics and housing from Census ACS 5-year 2022. All scores are for comparison purposes only and do not constitute advice about where to live.