Butte County, ID
2,684 residents · 2,237 sq mi · 1.2/sq mi · 100% rural
About Butte County
Butte County is a rural county located in the U.S. state of Idaho. As of the 2020 census, the population was 2,574, making it the third-least populous county in Idaho. Its county seat and largest city is Arco. The county was established in 1917 from parts of Bingham, Blaine, and Jefferson counties. The county gained territory in the Clyde area from Custer County in 1937 to reach its present boundary.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a distinctly rural experience, characterized by its low population density of 1.2 people per square mile. The climate is classified as USDA zone 6b, with an annual mean temperature of 41.8°F, allowing for a growing season that supports various crops. The terrain is primarily dry sub-humid, receiving around 12.8 inches of rainfall annually, which may limit water availability for self-sufficiency but can be managed with appropriate irrigation techniques.
However, the county has notable natural hazards, including a FEMA disaster percentile of 4/100, indicating lower risk overall, but still significant threats like avalanches (ranked 81) and wildfires (ranked 56). The cost of living is relatively low, with a median home price of $194,700 and a median household income of $37,358, but this may come with limited economic opportunities. Additionally, the area has a higher violence percentile at 78/100, which may be a concern for some residents.
This county is likely a good fit for individuals seeking a remote, low-density environment with a focus on self-sufficiency and rural living. Those comfortable with the potential risks associated with natural hazards and who can adapt to a lower income environment may thrive here. Conversely, individuals seeking urban amenities, higher income opportunities, or those who are risk-averse may find this area challenging as a homesteading location.