Bartholomew County, IN
83,540 residents · 407 sq mi · 205.3/sq mi · 31% rural
About Bartholomew County
Bartholomew County is a county located in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 82,208 at the 2020 census. The county seat is Columbus. The county was determined by the U.S. Census Bureau to be home to the mean center of U.S. population in 1900. Bartholomew County makes up the Columbus, Indiana Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is part of the Indianapolis-Carmel-Muncie Combined Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
The county features a mix of urban and rural areas, with a population density of 205.3 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by a humid subtropical environment, with an annual mean temperature of 53.8°F and 46.8 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is favorable for a variety of crops, supported by USDA zone 8a. However, the relatively high population density may limit opportunities for extensive self-sufficient living, especially in more developed areas.
Natural hazards pose significant risks in this area, with tornadoes ranked at FEMA 87, indicating a high likelihood of occurrence. Other notable risks include earthquakes (83), riverine flooding (78), and winter weather (70). The county's violence percentile is low at 16, suggesting a safer environment, but the overall disaster percentile of 71 indicates potential challenges in emergency preparedness. Additionally, the median home price of $197,500 may be a barrier for some prospective homesteaders.
This county may suit individuals or families looking for a balance of rural living with access to urban amenities. Those who thrive here will likely appreciate the community resources and relatively low crime rate. However, individuals seeking complete isolation or extensive land for self-sufficiency might find the density and natural hazard risks to be dealbreakers. A hidden gem is the area's broadband access, which can support remote work or online learning crucial for modern homesteading.