Homesteading is becoming a very popular way of life for many Americans.
Throughout history, it’s been proven many times over that humans love to be self-sufficient and not having to rely on others and infrastructure.
The luxuries that are provided to use by big companies such as electricity and water are often taken for granted.
This grows an itch for self-sustainability for many people who just want that simplicity back.
Humans have not had access to these luxuries until the recent centuries since the beginning of time, so it’s only natural to crave a more natural lifestyle.
Many Americans view homesteading as a step backward, but this is undoubtedly a negative way of thinking.
Homesteading gives individuals a sense of peace and tranquillity, a feeling of self-sustainability. I think at times many people, including myself, hope for a time of the old west to return.
A chance to take advantage of natural resources and an opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
I know from experience, that each state is very different. While states may hold similar characteristics, the core of each state is unique.
The entire aura, culture, and laws could negatively impact a homestead, so factoring in the beginning aspects I’ve noted below is very important.
As for determining which state is best for you, imagine your homestead. If it has medium mountains, yet lots of water,
Tennessee or Oregon may be best. On the other hand, if you imagine a desert-themed homestead, Texas or Arizona may likely suit you best.
If it’s the classic greenery forest, the other states may work better for you.
This is why I’ve created this guide, which will cover the best states to start your new homestead; let’s take a look at them.
Also, you can get both worlds and pick a good homesteading plus SHTF-friendly state. Check this article.
SKIP AHEAD
5 Factors To Consider for Homesteading
Relaxed State Laws
The main benefit of building a homestead is the lack of reliance on societal luxuries, such as electricity and city water.
Many of us, especially those interested in homesteading, wish to avoid having the government on our backs.
State laws, including those that control what weapons you’re legally allowed to own should come into consideration.
Plus the act of catching rainwater, or even land regulations should definitely all be a factor when considering a new state to build your homestead.
The entire point is to get away from under the scope of society and government, so it’s important to choose a state that is homestead friendly, particularly when it relates to law and regulations.
Affordability
I (personally) believe that finding an affordable state is one of the most important aspects of the process. Finding a state which doesn’t require sky-high taxes is crucial.
You should also attempt to find land that is competitively priced, this way you’ll have more money available for other endeavors, such as expanding your new homestead.
In some states like California, while occasionally cheap land pops up on the market, some of the listings there can reach into the millions for just a few acres.
Yet in states like Tennessee, there are listings in the low x,xxxs which are regularly available for purchase.
Natural Resources
The first thing that I would consider before I moved to a state with homesteading in mind, is the readily available natural resources.
The best part about homesteading is the idea of self-sustainability and independence.
Having to use city water due to the absence of creeks or adequate wells completely dismantles this rewarding experience.
Rivers, creeks, ponds, vegetation, wildlife, and fishing opportunities are all things to factor into the search.
This allows for plenty of water and food directly from the land and the wildlife that roams it. Fortunately, there are quite a few states that generously meet these criteria.
Climate
This is a super important factor to consider because the climate has quite an impact on the homestead lifestyle.
If you’d like to have a homestead that will not require extreme winter preparedness and upkeep, Tennessee would be a better option versus Alaska, for example.
Taking into consideration the weather, such as rain, snow, droughts and natural disasters should all be looked at carefully before biting the bullet and buying.
If you plan on having a farm of animals, what climate do they strive in the best? These are things that could make it a great and successful long term homestead.
You may also want to consider your skills, because someone very knowledgeable of the southern land, may need quite a bit of learning to do in Alaska to lead a proper homestead.
Community
Homesteading isn’t always a solo venture of simplicity. It also optionally involves a community unlike any other.
Many naturalists alike often live near one another even if it’s miles apart and essentially acts as one family.
In regular society, it’s every man for himself, no one talks to one another unless strictly necessary.
However, homesteading brings people together in a way that’s unseen elsewhere. Some states have this unique experience more than others do.
California, while much of it is a beautiful state, has no match to this idea that a state like Tennessee does.
Factoring this into the equation is certainly important to do, particularly if you want a community.
6 Best States For Homesteading
Tennessee
Favorable Climate + Plenty of Natural Resources
This is without a doubt one of the favorites of mine on the list, largely because it has so much to offer and features many great homestead friendly laws.
For starters, the state has a plethora of essentially every natural resource you would ever need.
The growing season is lively for most of the year, only slowing down for just a few months during winter.
Speaking of the weather, it’s quite average, but you can expect some snow during the winter.
The growing months are pretty spectacular in terms of sunlight and humidity, providing the perfect mix of climate needed for great crop growth.
Relaxed Laws & Regulations & Moderately Affordable
I took a look at the laws, and the state is honestly pretty friendly towards off-grid residents. They also have traditional gun laws, which most homesteaders appreciate.
Much of the land features medium-sized mountains, and is also quite affordable, especially once you get outside of town.
It’s surely a favorite among the homestead community, with more homesteaders calling this state home more than most states listed here.
Arizona
Hot & Dry But Very Inexpensive
Located within a desert, Arizona is quite the charm for homesteading. Although water is a little more scarce than other states listed here, it’s still a great state to consider.
This can be solved by using water storage and rain-catching systems, although crops will take a little more work to grow.
The biggest reason I’ve included this state is due to the insanely inexpensive property listings.
If you’re looking to start homesteading on a budget, this is a good one to consider. The laws are moderately friendly towards homesteaders too.
Great Terrain + Low Population Density
As far as the terrain, well, it’s the desert. It’s dry and hot during the summers and cool during the winters, but this shouldn’t stop you from considering it. It’s full of beauty, and very large mountains.
Something that I love about Arizona is the fact that you can essentially be as far away from civilization as you’d like.
Some property listings are hours away from the big cities and have small community towns nearby for supplies.
Texas
Traditional & Plenty Of Natural Resources
A favorite state among homesteaders would be Texas. The state still has a traditional way of life and has many other homesteaders living there too.
Something I love about Texas is that the variety of climates and terrain available is extraordinary.
In the east, you’ll have lots of access to water and easy crop growth, while in the west you’ll get cheap property listings and less population density.
Homestead Friendly Regulations & Adequate Wildlife
Texas has a pretty average climate too, so it’ll be perfect for most skill sets and farming.
The laws are some of the most relaxed in the country, including land regulations and guns.
It has plenty of wildlife available if you’re looking to hunt, and offers many different areas to fish.
There are a ton of areas that are pretty far out of town, although most of these are out west.
I’d consider this one of the better states for newcomers just starting in this area of opportunity, although many of these states are great nonetheless. It’s just a solid all-around great state.
Oregon
Great Crop Growth & Very Homestead Accepting
I decided to include Oregon due to its vast amount of natural resources and wildlife. It has everything you’d ever need in regards to water, crops, and wildlife.
The terrain is some of the most beautiful in the states, featuring many mountains and rivers throughout.
I should note that Oregon is a pretty blue state in regards to politics, but it’s truthfully quite accepting of homesteading.
Great Climate & Low Population Density
It’s also close to California, mixing in a little of Northern California’s terrain, while also copying its climate, which I may add is pretty great for homesteading.
Expect pretty average weather. Their land is pretty cheap considering it’s located near California.
I should also mention that there is no shortage of large trees to build almost anything you’d like. The population density is pretty low as well.
Montana
Low Key & Inexpensive + A Plethora of Natural Resources
If you’re looking to stay way out of the spotlight, Montana would be a great consideration.
It’s away from highly populated states and has a considerably low population density.
This means that land is very cheap, and leaves you with more acreage to use the abundance of natural resources available. Something that Montana has an edge in is wildlife.
Wildlife Everywhere + Great Communities
The state is known for its large elk and deer and has quite a bit of antelope. I appreciate their laws too, which are highly beneficial to homesteading due to the lack of unnecessary regulations; not to mention their relaxed gun laws.
I looked into the community of homesteaders in Montana and was surprised at how many people live off the grid there.
The weather can get pretty cool, but it’s certainly manageable. You will, however, need to prepare beforehand to get through the winter easily.
Alaska
Extraordinary Terrain & Exceptional Natural Resources
I’ve always appreciated the vastness of Alaska. The winters are known to be harsh and unforgiving.
So as long as you take advantage of their natural resources and terrain during the growing season, preparing for winter shouldn’t be that challenging.
The wildlife of Alaska is matched by no other state, and that’s by a long shot. It has essentially every western animal, which means you’ll be able to have more than enough food; especially if it’s needed during winter.
Large Mountains + Homestead Friendly Laws & Regulations
Alaska also features very large mountains and a huge variety of rivers, creeks, ponds, and trees that could be used for construction.
The state is very relaxed in Gun laws too, and they’re extremely welcoming of off-grid housing, I’d go so far as to say the best in the country.
As mentioned before, though, the winters are extreme. So ensure you’re prepared before jumping into the pot.
The population density is insanely low as well, which means land prices are comfortably affordable.
Verdict
Homesteading is growing in popularity all around the United States, and many of these people are seeking out the best states to do so in; hence this in-depth guide.
As mentioned before, the idea of being self-sufficient, and the ability to rely only on yourself and not societal luxuries is one of the best feelings ever.
I think it’s important to study the states before you move there, and maybe consider visiting for a week or two to explore the land.
Also, take into consideration your skill. For example, if you’re skilled in warm desert areas, you may need to think carefully over moving to Alaska for example.
No worries if you feel short on these as new skills are always readily available to learn. Consider your preferred climate and terrain type too.
Mountains are beautiful but sometimes difficult to explore, especially during winter months; as are desert mountains hard to explore during summer months.
