Lincoln County, MO
63,155 residents · 627 sq mi · 100.8/sq mi · 72% rural
About Lincoln County
Lincoln County is located in the eastern part of the U.S. state of Missouri. As of the 2020 census, the population was 59,574. Its county seat is Troy. The county was founded December 14, 1818, and named for Major General Benjamin Lincoln of the American Revolutionary War. Lincoln County is part of the St. Louis, MO-IL Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and accessibility, with a population density of 100.8 people per square mile, making it relatively populated yet still rural at 72%. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 54.7°F and receives 41.1 inches of rainfall per year, suitable for a growing season typical of USDA zone 8a. This region's humid climate can support diverse crops, but heat waves and summer highs reaching 87.7°F may pose challenges for certain agricultural practices.
The county faces several natural hazards, with heat waves ranked highest at FEMA 93, indicating significant risk during summer months. Other concerns include landslides, strong winds, and earthquakes, all of which could affect self-sufficiency efforts. The area has a violence percentile of 35/100, suggesting a moderate safety level, while the cost of living is manageable with a median home price of $206,800 and a low effective property tax rate of 0.80%.
This county is likely a good fit for those who prefer a balance of rural living with some access to metropolitan amenities from nearby St. Louis. Individuals who thrive in a community-focused environment with a desire for agricultural pursuits may find it appealing. However, those heavily reliant on consistent weather patterns or who have a low tolerance for natural hazards might find the risks here a dealbreaker.