Sauk County, WI
65,777 residents · 832 sq mi · 79.1/sq mi · 45% rural
About Sauk County
Sauk County is a county in Wisconsin. It is named after a large village of the Sauk people. As of the 2020 census, the population was 65,763. Its county seat and largest city is Baraboo. The county was created in 1840 from Wisconsin Territory and organized in 1844. Sauk County comprises the Baraboo, WI Micropolitan Statistical Area and is included in the Greater Madison area.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and urban settings, with a population density of 79.1 people per square mile. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 46.2°F and approximately 37.1 inches of rainfall per year, supporting a growing season typical of USDA zone 6b. This allows for a variety of crops to be cultivated. However, the cold winters, with lows around 9.3°F, can limit year-round gardening without proper planning and infrastructure.
Natural hazards pose significant risks in the county, with hail (93), landslides (88), and cold waves (86) being among the most pressing threats according to FEMA rankings. While the violence percentile is relatively low at 30/100, indicating a safer environment, the population density percentile of 66/100 suggests that some urban challenges may be present. Housing is moderately priced, with a median home value of $227,500, but the effective property tax rate of 1.56% may impact long-term financial planning.
This county could be a good fit for individuals or families seeking a balance between rural living and access to urban amenities, particularly those who can manage the seasonal climate and prepare for natural hazards. Homesteaders looking for a community with some existing infrastructure and broadband access may thrive here. However, those who require a more temperate climate year-round or who are unprepared for the risks associated with severe weather may find this county less suitable.