Steele County, ND
1,788 residents · 712 sq mi · 2.5/sq mi · 100% rural
About Steele County
Steele County is a county in the U.S. state of North Dakota. As of the 2020 census, the population was 1,798, and was estimated to be 1,797 in 2025, making it the fourth-least populous county in North Dakota. The county seat and the largest city is Finley.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Steele County offers a predominantly rural lifestyle with a low population density of 2.5 people per square mile, allowing for ample space and privacy. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 39.9°F, with summer highs reaching 79.9°F and winter lows dropping to -2.0°F, making it suitable for hardy crops in USDA zone 5b. With 21.8 inches of rainfall per year and a humid classification, water availability is generally favorable for self-sufficient living, though the growing season may be shorter due to the cold winters.
Natural hazards in this area include strong winds (FEMA rank 78) and hail (rank 74), which can impact crops and structures. Ice storms (rank 70) and cold waves (rank 46) pose additional winter challenges. The violence percentile is at 42, indicating average safety, while the disaster percentile is notably low at 6, suggesting that major disasters are rare. However, potential homesteaders should consider the limited broadband access, with only 51% of households subscribed, which may affect connectivity for those who rely on the internet for work or information.
Steele County is likely a good fit for individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with the ability to grow their own food and engage in self-sufficient practices. Those comfortable with cold winters and willing to manage the risks of strong winds and ice storms may thrive here. Conversely, individuals reliant on high-speed internet or those who prefer a warmer climate may find this area less suitable, making the harsh winters a potential dealbreaker for some homesteaders.