Caldwell County, MO
8,933 residents · 426 sq mi · 21.0/sq mi · 100% rural
About Caldwell County
Caldwell County is a county located in Missouri, United States. As of the 2020 census, the county's population was 8,815. It is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. Its county seat is Kingston. The county was organized December 29, 1836, and named by Alexander Doniphan to honor John Caldwell, who participated in George Rogers Clark's Native American Campaign of 1786 and was the second Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a rural landscape with a population density of 21.0 people per square mile, offering ample space for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 53.2°F and 39.7 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7b crops. However, the region's humid conditions may pose challenges for water management, particularly during drought periods, which are noted as a significant hazard.
Caldwell County faces several natural hazards, with drought ranked at 67 and cold waves at 53, potentially affecting agricultural productivity. The county has a relatively high violence percentile of 94, indicating a lower safety concern, but it may impact community dynamics. Additionally, while the median home price is $143,300, the effective property tax rate is 0.76%, which is reasonable, yet the broadband subscription rate of only 42% may limit access to information and remote work opportunities.
This county may be well-suited for those seeking a rural lifestyle with low population density and reasonable housing costs. Homesteaders who can adapt to the climate and are prepared for drought risks might thrive here. However, individuals reliant on high-speed internet or who prioritize urban amenities may find this area lacking, making access to resources and connectivity a potential dealbreaker.