Finney County, KS
37,650 residents · 1,302 sq mi · 28.9/sq mi · 20% rural
About Finney County
Finney County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and most populous city is Garden City. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 38,470. The county was named for David Finney, the Lieutenant Governor of Kansas from 1881 to 1885. In 2020, 51.4 percent of the population in the county was Hispanic, one of a few counties in Kansas with a Hispanic majority population.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural and urban benefits, with a population density of 28.9 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 54.7°F and an average annual rainfall of 19.8 inches, which supports a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 7b. However, the dry sub-humid classification indicates potential water scarcity, making water management a critical aspect for self-sufficient living.
The county faces significant risks including drought (FEMA rank 98), hail (98), and winter weather (90), which can impact agricultural productivity and living conditions. While the violence percentile is relatively moderate at 43/100, the overall disaster percentile of 64/100 suggests an average risk environment. Additionally, the median home price of $183,900 may be a barrier for some, although the effective property tax rate is relatively low at 1.41%.
This county may appeal to those who prefer a rural lifestyle with access to some urban amenities, particularly individuals or families looking for affordable housing and a community-oriented environment. However, those unprepared for the risks of drought and severe weather may struggle here. A hidden gem for homesteaders is the potential for crop diversity, but the dealbreaker could be the need for effective water management strategies.