Benewah County, ID
10,370 residents · 777 sq mi · 13.3/sq mi · 100% rural
About Benewah County
Benewah County is a county located in the northwest part of the U.S. state of Idaho. As of the 2020 United States census the county had a population of 9,530. The county seat and largest city is St. Maries, which has some area inside the Coeur d'Alene Reservation. The county was established on January 23, 1915, of land partitioned from Kootenai County. It was named for a chief of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe. The federally recognized Coeur d'Alene Tribe is based on the Coeur d'Alene Reservation in this and neighboring Kootenai County.
Prepper Assessment
The county features a predominantly rural landscape with a low population density of 13.3 people per square mile, making it suitable for those seeking remoteness. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 46.0°F and an ample 32.4 inches of rainfall per year, supporting diverse agricultural opportunities. With a USDA hardiness zone of 8a, the growing season is favorable for a variety of crops, though winter temperatures can drop to 24.2°F, which may limit year-round gardening options.
Natural hazards present notable risks, with landslide risk ranked at 94 and wildfire risk at 75 on the FEMA scale, indicating significant potential for these events. The area also experiences riverine flooding (ranked 47) and ice storms (ranked 40), which could disrupt daily life. The cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $241,700, but the lower broadband subscription rate of 38% may hinder connectivity for those needing reliable internet access.
This county may appeal to individuals or families seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle with opportunities for self-sufficiency, particularly in farming or homesteading. However, those who require urban amenities or high-speed internet may find it lacking. The significant natural hazard risks could be a dealbreaker for some, while the affordable property tax rate of 0.57% may be a hidden gem for potential homesteaders looking to settle in a less populated area.