Ellsworth County, KS
6,355 residents · 716 sq mi · 8.9/sq mi · 100% rural
About Ellsworth County
Ellsworth County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and most populous city is Ellsworth. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 6,376. The county was named after Fort Ellsworth.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and agricultural potential, with a low population density of 8.9 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 55.2°F and 29.4 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7b crops. While the terrain is primarily flat, the humid conditions may benefit water availability, though self-sufficiency may be limited by the seasonal extremes, with summer highs reaching 92.4°F and winter lows dropping to 19.8°F.
The county faces several natural hazards, notably ice storms (FEMA rank 82) and wildfires (rank 77), which could impact infrastructure and safety. While the area has a relatively low violence percentile of 58/100, indicating moderate safety, the disaster percentile of 15/100 suggests a lower frequency of significant disasters. The median home price of $109,400 is affordable, but with only 60% of households having broadband access, connectivity may be a concern for those requiring reliable internet.
This area is well-suited for individuals or families looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle with opportunities for agriculture and self-sufficiency. Those who thrive here will appreciate the affordability and lower density. However, individuals seeking urban amenities or those who rely heavily on internet access may find it challenging. Additionally, the risk of natural hazards, particularly ice storms and wildfires, could be a significant dealbreaker for some prospective homesteaders.