Off-grid living is becoming increasingly popular as people seek peace and seclusion away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Business Electric ranked the top 150 off-grid living counties in the US, based on a survey of 3,000 Americans. These top spots were chosen for their wilderness and isolation, offering the perfect slice of peace and quiet for those looking to disconnect.
Wasco County, Oregon, took the top spot for off-grid living. With a population of only 26,670 people spread across 2,381 square miles, the county offers a quiet and remote lifestyle. Mount Hood National Forest is a major attraction in Wasco County, providing residents with lakes, hiking trails, and mountain biking routes. However, it is also one of the most visited federal parks in the country, so residents must be prepared for occasional crowds.
Hot Springs County in Wyoming is the second-ranked off-grid living county, with a population of just 4,621 people. Surrounded by mountains, this county offers seclusion and a dramatic landscape. Formerly home to a bustling mining town, Hot Springs County now boasts attractions such as the Big Horn Basin, Wind River Canyon, Shoshone National Forest, and Hot Springs State Park for residents to enjoy.
Meriwether County in Georgia ranks as the top spot in the southeastern region for off-grid living. With a population of 20,613 people spread across 505 square miles, the county is known for its sprawling parks and lakes. The county’s history dates back to prehistoric times when Native Americans used the land for trading routes and natural resources. Today, residents can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
Bienville Parish in Louisiana is known for its camping culture and outdoor attractions. With just 5,375 households, the county offers a smaller community for those seeking a quiet lifestyle. Popular spots like Lake Bistineau and Kepler Creek Lake attract visitors for fishing and boating, while the surrounding hardwood forests provide a serene backdrop. Despite its natural beauty, Bienville Parish is also infamous for being the place where Bonnie and Clyde were gunned down.
Somerset County in Maine has the largest population of the counties on the list, with 50,477 people inhabiting its 4,094 square miles. With a quarter of its area covered in water, Somerset County offers a maritime-heavy community with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. The county’s protected preserves make it an ideal location for year-round outdoor enthusiasts. Other counties like Harney County and Rabun County also made the top ten list for off-grid living in the US.
