Hunt & Live

Lincoln County, WY

20,660 residents · 4,075 sq mi · 5.1/sq mi · 100% rural

Climate
38.6°F
20.1" rain/yr
Water
humid
Aridity index 1.27
Hardiness
Zone 6b
Winter low ~-2.2°F

About Lincoln County

Lincoln County is a county in the U.S. state of Wyoming. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 19,581. Its county seat is Kemmerer. Its western border abuts the eastern borders of the states of Idaho and Utah.

64
Prepper Suitability
worsebetter
National rank: #752 of 3,109
Locator map
Location within the continental US

Prepper Assessment

Living in this area offers a mix of rural charm and natural beauty, characterized by a low population density of 5.1 people per square mile. The climate features an annual mean temperature of 38.6°F and 20.1 inches of rain per year, supporting a growing season typical of USDA zone 6b. This region's humid classification and access to water can benefit self-sufficient living, although the cold winters with lows around 7.8°F may limit year-round agricultural activities.

Natural hazards pose significant risks in this region, with the highest FEMA rankings for avalanche (99) and landslide (95), indicating potential dangers to residents. The county also experiences winter weather challenges, with a high risk rating of 88. While the area boasts a lower violence percentile (70), indicating relative safety, the median home price of $325,500 may be a barrier for some potential homesteaders. Additionally, the effective property tax rate of 0.45% could impact long-term financial planning.

This county may appeal to those seeking a remote, rural lifestyle with a strong sense of community and outdoor opportunities. Individuals or families who thrive in colder climates and are prepared for potential natural hazards may find it a suitable location. However, those who prefer milder weather or are not equipped for significant snowfall and cold temperatures might find this area challenging. The trade-off between affordability and the risk of natural disasters is a critical consideration for prospective homesteaders.

AI-generated analysis based on county data (climate, hazards, density, housing, economy). For general orientation only.

Key Facts

Ranked #1,192 nationally
Out of 3,109 CONUS counties for composite prepper suitability.
#16 of 23 in WY
Ranked #16 of 23 counties statewide for prepper suitability.
Dominant hazard: avalanche
FEMA ranks avalanche risk at 99/100 here — the leading natural threat.
Sparse population
5.1 people per square mile — well below the CONUS average.
Climate profile
Classified as humid with a 38.6°F annual mean and 20.1" of annual precipitation. USDA hardiness zone 6b.
Housing & taxes
Median home value $325,500.

Score Breakdown

Violence
46
percentile (lower = safer)
Disasters
52
percentile (lower = safer)
Density
11
percentile (lower = emptier)
Overall FEMA Risk
51.9
NRI composite (0-100)

Natural Hazard Profile (FEMA NRI)

Avalanche 99
Cold Wave 15
Drought 22
Earthquake 88
Hail 12
Heat Wave 2
Riverine Flood 36
Ice Storm 12
Landslide 95
Lightning 72
Strong Wind 11
Tornado 13
Volcano 42
Wildfire 84
Winter Weather 88

Monthly Climate (1991–2020 normals)

Average temperature
JFMAMJ JASOND
Monthly precipitation (inches)
JFMAMJ JASOND
Summer high
78.6°F
Winter low
7.8°F
Heating degree days
9,634
Cooling degree days
55

Housing & Economy

Median home value
$325,500
Median HH income
$83,033
Price to income
3.9×
Property tax rate
0.45%
~$1,473/yr median

Community Profile

Median age
40.7
Homeownership
79.4%
Poverty rate
7.1%
Unemployment
2.6%

Connectivity

Broadband households
68.7%
No internet access
5.7%

Explore Lincoln County Further

Similar Counties

Data sources. Prepper scores are national percentile ranks of firearm fatalities (County Health Rankings 2024 / CDC WONDER), FEMA National Risk Index 2023 composite disaster score, and population density (ACS 2022 + TIGER 2022 land area). Climate from NOAA nClimDiv 1991–2020 normals. Hardiness zone is estimated from climate data and may differ from the official USDA PHZM. Demographics and housing from Census ACS 5-year 2022. All scores are for comparison purposes only and do not constitute advice about where to live.