Strafford County, NH
132,275 residents · 368 sq mi · 360.0/sq mi · 37% rural
About Strafford County
Strafford County is a county in the U.S. state of New Hampshire. As of the 2020 census, the population was 130,889. Its county seat is Dover. Strafford County was one of the five original counties identified for New Hampshire in 1769. It was named after William Wentworth, 2nd Earl of Strafford in the mistaken belief that he was the ancestor of governor John Wentworth – although they were distantly related, William had no descendants. The county was organized at Dover in 1771. In 1840, the size of the original county was reduced with the creation of Belknap County.
Prepper Assessment
The terrain in this area features a mix of rural and suburban landscapes, with a population density of 360 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 46.7°F and 47.9 inches of rainfall, which supports a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7a. While the area has potential for self-sufficient living, the shorter growing season compared to warmer climates may limit crop variety and yield.
Natural hazards are a significant concern, with the leading FEMA risks including ice storms (ranked 88), earthquakes (77), and hurricanes (77). The area experiences a higher density of population, which may lead to increased competition for resources. Additionally, the median home price of $300,200 could be a barrier for those seeking affordable land for homesteading, especially in a market with a median household income of $83,212.
This location may suit individuals or families looking for a balanced rural lifestyle with access to urban amenities, particularly those who can manage the higher cost of living. However, novice preppers or those seeking complete isolation may find the population density and natural hazards challenging. A potential dealbreaker for homesteaders could be the limited variety of crops due to the climate, while the proximity to services could be a hidden gem for others.