Stevens County, WA
48,229 residents · 2,477 sq mi · 19.5/sq mi · 89% rural
About Stevens County
Stevens County is a county located in the U.S. state of Washington along the Canada–US border. At the 2020 census, its population was 46,445. As of July 2023, the population was estimated to be 48,837. The county seat and largest city is Colville, and the largest CDP is Suncrest. The county was created in 1863 and named after Isaac Stevens, the first governor of Washington Territory.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and natural beauty, with a population density of 19.5 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 45.3°F and 23.7 inches of rainfall, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 8a. Water availability is favorable due to the humid classification, which can aid in self-sufficient living, though the varied terrain may present challenges for large-scale agriculture.
This region does face significant natural hazards, with wildfire and landslide risks both rated at FEMA rank 96, indicating a high level of concern. The area also experiences riverine flooding and cold waves, which can pose additional challenges. While the violence percentile stands at 65/100, suggesting a moderate level of safety, the overall disaster percentile of 60/100 indicates that residents should prepare for potential emergencies. The median home price of $277,300 may also be a barrier for some seeking affordable housing.
Stevens County may suit those who appreciate a rural lifestyle and possess the skills for self-sufficiency, particularly in managing land and resources. Homesteaders with experience in disaster preparedness and resilience would likely thrive here. However, those reliant on urban amenities or who are unprepared for the area's natural hazards may find it challenging. The hidden gem could be the abundant natural resources, while the dealbreaker might be the high wildfire risk.