Morris County, KS
5,349 residents · 695 sq mi · 7.7/sq mi · 100% rural
About Morris County
Morris County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and largest city is Council Grove. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 5,386. The county was named for Thomas Morris, a U.S. Senator from Ohio and anti-slavery advocate.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a predominantly rural lifestyle, with a low population density of 7.7 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 54.8°F and an average of 35.1 inches of precipitation per year, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops within USDA zone 7b. While the terrain is generally conducive to self-sufficient living, the humid climate may require careful management of water resources, especially during the hotter months when summer highs reach 89.9°F.
Risks in this area include a range of natural hazards, with wildfires ranked at 84 and heat waves at 81 on the FEMA scale, indicating significant risks during dry seasons. The county also experiences ice storms and hail, which can impact agricultural activities. The violence percentile is at 58, suggesting a moderate level of concern regarding safety, while the disaster percentile of 27 indicates a relatively low risk of severe disruptions. The median home price of $111,700 is affordable, but the property tax rate of 1.58% should be considered when budgeting.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on agriculture and self-sufficiency. Those who thrive here are likely to appreciate the low cost of living and the sense of community. However, individuals sensitive to extreme weather conditions or those seeking urban amenities may find the area's limitations challenging. The hidden gem for homesteaders could be the affordable housing market, while the dealbreaker might be the potential for significant natural hazards.