Ness County, KS
2,645 residents · 1,075 sq mi · 2.5/sq mi · 100% rural
About Ness County
Ness County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and largest city is Ness City. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 2,687. The county was named for Noah Ness, a corporal of the 7th Kansas Cavalry.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and self-sufficiency potential. The county features a dry sub-humid climate with an annual mean temperature of 54.8°F and 22.6 inches of rainfall, making it suitable for certain crops in USDA zone 7b. The terrain is primarily flat, which can facilitate farming and livestock management. However, the growing season may be limited due to the risk of drought, which is a notable concern in this region.
The leading natural hazards include drought (ranked 77), hail (74), and wildfire (50), which pose significant risks to agriculture and property. While the county has a lower violence percentile at 58, indicating a relatively safe environment, its population density is quite low at 2.5 people per square mile. The median home price is $80,400, which may be attractive to some, but potential residents should consider the economic viability and limited job opportunities in this rural setting.
This county is likely a good fit for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficient living. Homesteaders who can adapt to the challenges of drought and other weather-related hazards may thrive here. However, individuals reliant on urban amenities or a diverse job market might find the area limiting. The hidden gem is the low property tax rate of 1.87%, which can be beneficial for those looking to invest in land.