Manitowoc County, WI
81,172 residents · 589 sq mi · 137.7/sq mi · 43% rural
About Manitowoc County
Manitowoc County is a county in the U.S. state of Wisconsin. As of the 2020 census, the population was 81,359. Its county seat is Manitowoc. The county was created in 1836 prior to Wisconsin's statehood and organized in 1848. Manitowoc County comprises the Manitowoc, WI Micropolitan Statistical Area.
Prepper Assessment
Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and practical resources for self-sufficient living. The terrain is predominantly flat with a humid climate, featuring an annual mean temperature of 45.1°F and 32.6 inches of rainfall per year, which supports a growing season suitable for a variety of crops, particularly in USDA zone 7a. However, the colder winters, with lows averaging 11.6°F, may limit certain agricultural activities without proper winterization.
Natural hazards in the county include hail (ranked 96) and cold waves (86), which could pose challenges for outdoor activities and crop management. The area does experience tornadoes (ranked 77) and riverine flooding (70), which may impact homesteading infrastructure. While the population density is relatively low at 137.7 people per square mile, the violence percentile is at 15, indicating a generally safer environment. However, the cost of living is moderate, with a median home price of $160,400 and a property tax rate of 1.65%.
This county may be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a rural lifestyle with access to essential resources and a supportive community. Those with experience in cold-weather farming or who are willing to invest in proper housing for winter conditions are likely to thrive here. However, individuals seeking a warmer climate or those unprepared for the risks posed by natural hazards may find this area less suitable for their homesteading goals.