Pawnee County, KS
6,179 residents · 754 sq mi · 8.2/sq mi · 40% rural
About Pawnee County
Pawnee County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and largest city is Larned. As of the 2020 census, the county population was 6,253. The county is named after the Pawnee tribe.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area features a mix of rural and small-town environments, with a population density of 8.2 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 55.3°F and 25.2 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 7b. However, the region's dry sub-humid classification indicates potential challenges for water availability, particularly during drought periods, which are common given the FEMA hazard ranking of 91.
Natural hazards pose significant risks in this area, with drought, hail, and tornadoes ranking among the top concerns according to FEMA data. The county's disaster percentile of 31 suggests a moderate level of vulnerability to these events. Additionally, the population density of 16% in the lower percentile indicates a more spacious environment, which may appeal to some, but the violence percentile of 58 suggests that safety may be a concern for residents, particularly in more populated areas.
This county may be well-suited for individuals or families seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle with a lower cost of living, as evidenced by the median home price of $93,800 and median household income of $54,141. Those with experience in agriculture or self-sufficient living may thrive here, provided they are prepared for the risks associated with natural hazards. However, individuals who require robust infrastructure or consistent access to services may find the remoteness and potential for drought to be significant dealbreakers.