Sequoyah County, OK
39,667 residents · 674 sq mi · 58.9/sq mi · 81% rural
About Sequoyah County
Sequoyah County is a county located in the U.S. state of Oklahoma. As of the 2020 census, the population was 39,281. The county seat is Sallisaw. Sequoyah County was created in 1907 when Oklahoma became a state. It was named after Sequoyah, who created the Cherokee syllabary and its written language.
Prepper Assessment
Living in Sequoyah County offers a mix of rural charm and a humid subtropical climate, with an annual mean temperature of 60.9°F and a significant 49.7 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is conducive to a variety of crops, aided by the USDA zone 8b classification. This area features mostly rural terrain, with 81% of the population living outside urban centers, providing ample space for self-sufficient living, though access to water sources may vary.
However, there are notable risks associated with this region. The county ranks high for wildfire (96) and ice storm (96) hazards, indicating a significant risk for these events. Additionally, heat waves and tornadoes are also common concerns, with respective ranks of 95 and 86. While the violence percentile is relatively moderate at 39, the overall disaster percentile at 79 suggests that residents should prepare for potential emergencies. The cost of living is reasonable, with a median home price of $118,600, but broadband access is limited at 45%.
This county may suit those seeking a rural lifestyle with a focus on self-sufficiency and who are prepared to handle the associated risks of natural disasters. Homesteaders who thrive on cultivating crops and raising livestock will find opportunities here, but those with a lower tolerance for extreme weather events or limited internet connectivity may struggle. A dealbreaker for some could be the high wildfire risk, while the county's affordability and spaciousness may be a hidden gem for others.