Casey County, KY
15,920 residents · 444 sq mi · 35.8/sq mi · 100% rural
About Casey County
Casey County is a county located in the U.S. Commonwealth of Kentucky. As of the 2020 census, the population was 15,941. Its county seat is Liberty. The county was formed in 1806 from the western part of Lincoln County and named for Colonel William Casey, a pioneer settler who moved his family to Kentucky in 1779. It is the only Kentucky county entirely in the Knobs region. Casey County is home to annual Casey County Apple Festival. It is considered part of the Appalachian region of Kentucky.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a predominantly rural landscape with a population density of 35.8 people per square mile, allowing for ample space and privacy. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 55.6°F and 52.4 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for various crops in USDA zone 8a. The humid conditions and water availability can benefit self-sufficient living, although the terrain of the Knobs region may present some challenges for large-scale agriculture.
While the county has a relatively low population density, it does face notable natural hazards, including winter weather (FEMA rank 66) and tornadoes (rank 61). The violence percentile stands at 67/100, suggesting a moderate level of safety concerns. Housing is relatively affordable, with a median home price of $124,300, but only 51% of households have broadband, which may limit access to information and resources for some residents.
This county may suit individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency and agriculture. Those who thrive here are likely to be adaptable and prepared for the region’s weather challenges. However, individuals reliant on high-speed internet or seeking urban amenities may find this area less suitable, as the limited broadband access could be a dealbreaker for some homesteaders.
