Seven Best States For Homesteading

If you’re looking for a more self-sufficient life, homesteading is a great way to get away from it all. Here are a few of the best states for homesteading if you want to enjoy the benefits of rural living and enjoy the great outdoors. Each of these states has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, but they all offer something special on the path to fulfilling your homesteading dream.

There are a few things to consider before making the move. The first thing you’ll need to do is some research into things like climate, cost of living, and a state’s legal environment. Knowing what options are available will help you make a smart decision.

Every state has its own challenges, and there’s no perfect place to land. However, you’ll want as few challenges as possible in setting up your homesteading venture, so it’s worth doing your homework before settling in on a new homestead.

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Tennessee

Number one on our list of best homesteading states is the great state of Tennessee.

Tennessee offers moderately priced land, no individual income tax, and a favorable climate for growing crops. This state also receives a generous amount of rainfall each year, and has relatively clean groundwater. These are some of the factors that make The Volunteer State a top choice for homesteading.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a state to homestead in is the cost of living. The cost of living in Tennessee is about 10% lower than in the rest of the U.S. Moreover, Tennessee has some of the most advantageous homesteading laws in the country.

If gun rights are important to you, Tennessee also has favorable gun laws

All of these factors add up to to make Tennessee a good choice for anyone looking to live off the land and earn a sustainable homestead living.

Idaho

There are several reasons why Idaho is one of the best states for homesteading.

Idaho has a mild (but cold winter) climate and good soil quality, making it an ideal choice for growing crops and raising livestock. However, before setting up a homestead, it’s important to think about the location. While the midwest portion of the state is generally considered the most desirable place to farm in Idaho, you can find suitable land elsewhere.

Idaho overall has very rich soil, among the best in the entire U.S. There is also an abundance of crop land.

In addition, the cost of living in Idaho is lower than a lot of other states.

The laws are also very favorable to homesteaders. You can receive up to $100,000 in protection from creditors as a homestead exemption, and can choose to be part of a homestead community. The state also has a low crime rate and stunning outdoor scenery and activities.

Virginia

Next on our list of good states for homesteading is Virginia.

Virginia is one of the better states in which to start a homesteading business, thanks to its many benefits for homesteaders. It has good laws governing living off the grid, open-carry status for firearms, and a favorable homestead exemption.

In addition, the State has favorable laws about homesteaders raising livestock, homeschooling their children, and working in the cottage-food industry.

While Virginia has some excellent land in terms of its farming ability, the cost of living is slightly more expensive than average, so finding land suitable for your homestead may be more costly.

North Carolina

If you’re considering homesteading, North Carolina is one of the best states to consider.

North Carolina is not only known for its subtropical climate, but it also has beautiful mountains and a diverse mix of urban and rural living.

You’ll find people homesteading in many areas of the state, including the western part. The climate is mild and the growing season is longer than some other areas.

The land in western North Carolina is also away from the coast, which means that there aren’t as many hurricanes sweeping through that part the state. Although land can be more expensive in North Carolina, some of its laws are favorable to homesteading, including rebate incentives for solar panels.

Arkansas

Next up on our tour of best homesteading states is Arkansas, also known as “The Natural State.”

The Arkansas River Valley bisects the Ozarks and Ouachita Mountains, offering some of the best farmland in the upland region. The valley starts in the western corner of the state and runs almost 150 miles into the state.

The climate in Arkansas is one of the best for growing crops, and the land is relatively inexpensive compared to other regions. Homesteaders also enjoy a long growing season and lower cost of living.

Nevada

When thinking of a state that is favorable to homesteading, Nevada may not immediately come to mind.

Nevada is a desert state that offers abundant sunshine. Although you may have heard of Nevada’s glamorous gambling industry, farming has also long been an important part of its culture.

The low population density and affordable farmland are attractive to those looking to buy larger chunks of land to use for homesteading.

Nevada’s low annual rainfall makes growing crops challenging in this desert state, but you can overcome this by using irrigation systems. If you’re looking to raise animals like cattle or sheep, Nevada may well be worth considering.

Missouri

Last but not least in our list of best homesteading states is the Show Me State of Missouri.

Missouri is an agriculturally rich state, with a long and proud history of farming. There is a lower cost of living than coastal regions of the U.S., with affordable acreage in many parts of the State. Missouri offers farmers and ranchers the opportunity to start their own homestead, with the potential to grow their homesteading business into something substantial.

You’ll find a wide variety of climates and soil types in Missouri, making it possible to farm practically any type of crop or livestock. There are also many opportunities for hobbyists and beginning farmers to get started without having to invest a lot of money up front.

Finding the Best State for Homesteading

Homesteading is a great way to get back to nature and live your own independent life. If you’re looking for an affordable way to start your own farm or ranch, homesteading is the perfect option.

There are a variety of ways to go about homesteading. Whether you’re interested in raising livestock, growing crops, or creating your own sustainable home economy, there’s a path ready for you.

This list of the some of the best homesteading states is a great launching point to begin your homestead adventure.

With careful planning and some hard work, anyone can learn how to establish their new home base and begin enjoying the fruits of their labor.