Jefferson County, NE
7,154 residents · 570 sq mi · 12.5/sq mi · 45% rural
About Jefferson County
Jefferson County is a county in the U.S. state of Nebraska. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 7,240. Its county seat is Fairbury. The county was named for Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States of America. In the Nebraska license plate system, Jefferson County is represented by the prefix 33.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and agricultural potential, with a population density of 12.5 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 52.5°F and 30.7 inches of rainfall, providing a suitable environment for growing crops in USDA zone 7b. The growing season is favorable, though the region's humidity (aridity index of 1.23) can influence water availability for self-sufficiency efforts.
Natural hazards pose certain risks, with hail ranked at 91 and wildfire risk at 73 according to FEMA data. While the area has a relatively low violence percentile of 24, indicating a safer environment, potential residents should be mindful of the risks associated with strong winds and ice storms, both ranked 68 and 67, respectively. The cost of living appears manageable, with median home prices around $116,700 and an effective property tax rate of 1.43%.
This county may be well-suited for individuals or families seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle with opportunities for agriculture and self-sufficiency. Those who thrive here are likely to be adaptable and prepared for the region's weather challenges. However, urban dwellers accustomed to amenities and services may find the remoteness and limited broadband access (64% subscription rate) to be a drawback, making it a less ideal fit for them.