Ontonagon County, MI
5,863 residents · 1,311 sq mi · 4.5/sq mi · 100% rural
About Ontonagon County
Ontonagon County is a county in the Upper Peninsula of the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the population was 5,816, making it Michigan's third-least populous county. The county seat is Ontonagon. The county was set off in 1843, and organized in 1848. Its territory had been organized as part of Chippewa and Mackinac counties. With increasing population in the area, more counties were organized. After Ontonagon was organized, it was split to create Gogebic County. It is also the westernmost county in the United States that lies within the Eastern Time Zone.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a distinctly rural experience, with a low population density of 4.5 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 40.8°F, with summer highs reaching 77.6°F and winter lows dropping to 5.5°F. The growing season aligns with USDA zone 6b, providing opportunities for diverse crops. Water availability is strong, with 33.5 inches of rainfall annually, but the cold winters may limit year-round growing without adequate preparation.
Risks in this region include notable winter weather challenges, ranked 58 by FEMA, alongside a cold wave risk at rank 46. Although the area has a low violence percentile of 31, its rural nature may present challenges in terms of access to emergency services. The median home price of $89,700 is relatively affordable, yet the economic landscape may limit job opportunities with a median household income of $48,316.
This county may be a good fit for those who prioritize solitude and self-sufficiency, particularly individuals experienced in winter preparedness and cold-weather gardening. However, it may not suit those reliant on urban amenities or with limited adaptability to harsh climates. A potential dealbreaker could be the severe winter conditions, while the low population density and affordable housing may be hidden gems for the right homesteader.