Nantucket County, MA
14,421 residents · 46 sq mi · 312.2/sq mi · 16% rural
About Nantucket County
Nantucket is an island in Massachusetts, United States, about 30 miles (48 km) south of the Cape Cod peninsula. Together with the small islands of Tuckernuck and Muskeget, it constitutes the Town and County of Nantucket, a combined county/town government. Nantucket is the southeasternmost town in both Massachusetts and the New England region. The name "Nantucket" is adapted from similar Algonquian names for the island.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Nantucket County is characterized by its coastal terrain and relatively mild climate, with an annual mean temperature of 50.7°F and 43.7 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season benefits from USDA zone 8b, allowing for a variety of crops. However, being an island presents challenges in terms of remoteness and limited land availability, with a population density of 312.2 people per square mile, which can hinder self-sufficiency efforts due to space constraints.
Natural hazards are significant considerations, particularly the high risk of hurricanes (FEMA rank 91) and coastal flooding (FEMA rank 70). The area has a relatively low violence percentile at 1/100, indicating a safer environment. However, the high cost of living, with a median home price of $1,265,600, poses a barrier for many potential homesteaders, making it difficult to establish a sustainable lifestyle without substantial financial resources.
This county may be a good fit for those with significant financial means who appreciate coastal living and can manage the risks of hurricanes and flooding. Individuals seeking a remote, rural lifestyle may find the density and housing costs prohibitive. Homesteaders looking for affordable land and resources may see the high property values as a dealbreaker, while those focused on community and safety might find a hidden gem in the area's low violence rates.