Daggett County, UT
1,014 residents · 697 sq mi · 1.5/sq mi · 100% rural
About Daggett County
Daggett County is a county in the northeastern corner of the U.S. state of Utah. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 935, making it the least populous county in Utah. Its county seat is Manila. The county was named for Ellsworth Daggett (1845–1923), the first surveyor-general of Utah. The small community of Dutch John, located near the state line with Colorado and Wyoming, became an incorporated town in January 2016.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a rural landscape with a population density of just 1.5 people per square mile, providing a sense of remoteness ideal for self-sufficient living. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 42.1°F and an average of 14.6 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7a crops. However, the dry sub-humid classification indicates a need for careful water management practices, particularly in drought years.
Natural hazards are a significant consideration, with notable risks including avalanches (FEMA rank 88), wildfires (78), and landslides (62). While the county has a low disaster percentile of 4, indicating relative safety from natural disasters, the violence percentile of 61 suggests a moderate level of crime risk. Additionally, the median home price of $252,400 may be a barrier for some potential homesteaders, especially in comparison to local income levels.
This county may appeal to individuals or families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with a strong focus on self-sufficiency and outdoor activities. Those comfortable with remote living and prepared for the associated risks could thrive here. However, individuals reliant on urban amenities or those needing robust internet access might find this area challenging, particularly given the 55% broadband subscription rate among households.