Morrow County, OR
12,300 residents · 2,031 sq mi · 6.1/sq mi · 100% rural
About Morrow County
Morrow County is one of the 36 counties in the U.S. state of Oregon. As of the 2020 census, the population was 12,186. The county seat is Heppner. The county is named for one of its first settlers, Jackson L. Morrow, who was a member of the state legislature when the county was created. Half of the Umatilla Chemical Depot, which includes the Umatilla Chemical Agent Disposal Facility, and the Naval Weapons Systems Training Facility Boardman are located within the county. Morrow County is part of the Pendleton-Hermiston, OR, Micropolitan Statistical Area. It is located on the south side of the Columbia River and is included in the eight-county definition of Eastern Oregon.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a semi-arid climate with an annual mean temperature of 50.1°F and about 14 inches of rainfall per year, which may limit crop choices but allows for a growing season suitable for hardy plants. The terrain is largely rural, with a low population density of 6.1 people per square mile, providing ample space for self-sufficient living. However, the semi-arid classification indicates that water conservation measures will be essential for gardening and livestock.
Natural hazards pose significant risks, with wildfire ranked 92 by FEMA, indicating a high risk in this area, alongside ice storms and landslides that could disrupt daily life. The area has a higher-than-average violence percentile at 65, suggesting some safety concerns. Housing costs are moderate, with a median home price of $213,900, but the relatively low median household income of $64,975 may present affordability challenges for newcomers.
This county may be well-suited for individuals or families who prioritize space, rural living, and can adapt to the challenges of a semi-arid environment. Those with experience in wildfire mitigation and self-sufficient practices will thrive here. However, individuals seeking a bustling community or those unprepared for the risks of natural hazards may find this area less than ideal, particularly due to the high wildfire risk and limited economic opportunities.