South Dakota · Off-grid & homestead potential

McPherson County

72BoltScore / 100
#23 of 66 in South Dakota

McPherson County is a strong bolthole (72/100). Its strengths are deep isolation — 137 mi to the nearest city and cheap land ($2,389/acre). The trade-offs: a short, cold growing season (42.2°F avg) and modest rainfall (21″/yr).

How McPherson County scores

Hazard Safety89
Freedom85
Food30
Isolation94
Sovereignty68
Water42
Affordability91
Typical home
1.6%Property tax
$2,389Land / acre
21"Annual rain
10.3% of yrsSevere drought
137 miNearest metro
2.1People / sq mi
53.9%Federal land
42.2°FAvg temp

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Living off-grid in McPherson County, South Dakota

Is McPherson County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

McPherson County is a strong bolthole (72/100). Its strengths: deep isolation — 137 mi to the nearest city and cheap land ($2,389/acre). Watch-outs: a short, cold growing season (42.2°F avg) and modest rainfall (21″/yr).

How much does land cost in McPherson County, South Dakota?

Land in McPherson County runs about $2,389 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in McPherson County?

McPherson County gets about 21" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 10.3% of years.

How remote is McPherson County?

The nearest major metro is about 137 miles away, and population density is 2.1 people per square mile.

How McPherson compares in South Dakota

See all 66 South Dakota counties ranked →