Grand County, UT
9,769 residents · 3,673 sq mi · 2.7/sq mi · 18% rural
About Grand County
Grand County is a county on the east central edge of the U.S. state of Utah, United States. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 9,669. Its county seat and largest city is Moab.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a unique blend of arid terrain and stunning natural beauty, with an annual mean temperature of 51.6°F and only 11.9 inches of rain per year. The growing season is relatively short, characteristic of USDA zone 7b, which may limit crop variety but supports some drought-resistant plants. The low population density of 2.7 people per square mile provides a sense of remoteness, ideal for those seeking privacy and space for self-sufficient living.
However, there are notable risks to consider. The county faces a variety of natural hazards, with lightning, landslides, and avalanches ranked among the top concerns, while wildfire risk is moderate at FEMA rank 59. The cost of living can be high, with median home prices at $426,800, which may be prohibitive for some. Additionally, the area's violence percentile at 61 indicates a higher than average risk of violence compared to other regions, which could be a concern for families or individuals seeking a peaceful environment.
This county may appeal to experienced homesteaders or those who thrive in remote, rugged environments, particularly individuals interested in outdoor activities and sustainable living. However, it may not be suitable for those reliant on extensive agricultural production or who prefer urban amenities. The high housing costs and natural hazard risks could be dealbreakers for some, while the area's natural beauty and low population density may be hidden gems for others seeking solitude.