New Madrid County, MO
15,695 residents · 675 sq mi · 23.3/sq mi · 87% rural
About New Madrid County
New Madrid County is a county located in the Bootheel of the U.S. state of Missouri. As of the 2020 census, the population was 16,434. The largest city is Portageville and county seat is New Madrid, located on the northern side of the Kentucky Bend in the Mississippi River, where it has formed an oxbow around an exclave of Fulton County, Kentucky. This feature has also been known as New Madrid Bend or Madrid Bend, for the city.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and agricultural potential, with 87% of the land classified as rural and a population density of 23.3 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by a mean annual temperature of 59.1°F and an average annual rainfall of 49.8 inches, supporting a growing season suitable for a variety of crops in USDA zone 8b. However, water availability may be a concern due to the aridity index of 1.68, suggesting careful management of resources is necessary for self-sufficient living.
Natural hazards are significant in this area, with earthquakes ranked as the highest risk at FEMA level 96, followed by heat waves (88) and ice storms (84). The violence percentile at 80 indicates a higher likelihood of crime compared to many other regions, which could be a concern for those looking for a peaceful homesteading environment. Additionally, while housing is relatively affordable with a median home price of $93,400, the economic landscape may pose challenges with a median household income of $44,092.
This area may suit individuals or families who are prepared to manage the risks associated with earthquakes and other natural hazards and who can navigate the local economic landscape. Those with experience in agriculture and resource management will likely thrive here, while urban dwellers seeking a seamless transition to rural life might find the challenges daunting. A dealbreaker for many homesteaders could be the high earthquake risk, while the affordability of housing could be a hidden gem for others.