Smith County, KS
3,533 residents · 896 sq mi · 3.9/sq mi · 100% rural
About Smith County
Smith County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kansas. Its county seat is Smith Center. As of the 2020 census, the population was 3,570. The county is named in memory of J. Nelson Smith, a major in the 2nd Colorado Cavalry, killed at the Battle of Westport on October 21, 1864. The geographic center of the contiguous United States is located within the county, near Lebanon.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a rural lifestyle with a population density of 3.9 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 52.9°F and receives about 26 inches of rain per year, supporting a growing season suitable for crops typical of USDA zone 7b. However, the region's humidity and aridity index of 1.04 suggest careful water management is necessary for gardening and livestock.
This county faces notable natural hazards, including a high risk of hail (ranked 95 by FEMA) and drought (ranked 80). Other risks include strong winds and ice storms, which may impact infrastructure and agricultural activities. The violence percentile is at 58, indicating a moderate safety concern, while the cost of living is relatively low, with a median home price of $83,900 and a property tax rate of 1.72%.
This area may suit individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with the potential for self-sufficiency, particularly those who can adapt to the climate and manage agricultural risks. However, it may not be ideal for those requiring urban amenities or facing mobility challenges due to the remoteness and limited services. A hidden gem for homesteaders could be the affordable housing market, while the threat of severe weather may be a dealbreaker for some.