Riley County, KS
71,108 residents · 610 sq mi · 116.6/sq mi · 10% rural
About Riley County
Riley County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat and largest city is Manhattan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 71,959. The county was named after Bennet Riley, the 7th governor of California, and a Mexican–American War hero. Riley County is home to Fort Riley and Kansas State University.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of urban and rural settings, with a population density of 116.6 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by a humid environment, with an annual mean temperature of 54.3°F and 33.4 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7b crops. The terrain is primarily flat, which can be advantageous for farming and self-sufficient living, but the limited rural population may lead to challenges in community support and resources.
This area faces notable natural hazards, with winter weather (FEMA rank 94) and ice storms (92) posing significant risks during colder months. Tornadoes (rank 84) are also a concern, given the region's geography. The violent crime percentile is low at 8/100, indicating a relatively safe environment, but the cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $231,000 and an effective property tax rate of 1.46%, which may be a barrier for some prospective homesteaders.
Riley County may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a balance of rural and urban life, especially those who can adapt to potential winter challenges and are comfortable with a moderate cost of living. However, those looking for a completely remote homestead may find the population density and proximity to urban areas limiting. The hidden gem here is the access to educational resources from Kansas State University, which could benefit those interested in sustainable practices and agriculture.