Wisconsin is a relatively good state for living off the grid, mostly due to the low cost of living and the low cost of land which are extremely important for off grid living especially if you want to live as frugally as possible. Due to the large size of Wisconsin, there is a noticeable temperature difference between the north and the south, although a lot of people live off the grid in the northern parts of the state, but this isn’t the best place for off grid living due to the climate.
The best places to live off the grid in Wisconsin are the ones where the climate is relatively mild, especially during the wintertime. Generally speaking, the best counties to live off the grid and for homesteading in Wisconsin are Dane County, Waukesha County, Brown County, Menominee County, Marathon County, Bayfield County, and Green County.
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The climate in Wisconsin is humid continental, and for the most part, the winters tend to be brutal, especially in the northern parts of the state. The areas around Lake Michigan and Lake Superior tend to have the highest humidity levels in the state. The local weather near the two lakes can change abruptly, it can be a fine summer day one hour, and an hour later it could be pouring rain.’
For the most part, the winters in the entire state can be fairly cold, but in the northern parts of the state, the winters tend to be even colder and last longer. During the wintertime, due to the high humidity, the average snowfall in some areas can be extremely high, and some small communities live cut off by the snow. If you want to know more about this state then check out my recent article Off grid living in Wisconsin ( America’s Dairyland ).
Best Places To Live Off The Grid In Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers some truly remarkable options for living off the grid. The state’s abundant natural beauty, including its lush forests, pristine lakes, and rolling farmlands, creates an ideal environment for a self-sustaining lifestyle. Areas like Bayfield County and Vilas County, nestled in the northern part of the state, offer breathtaking views, ample wildlife, and a strong sense of community. These regions provide opportunities for sustainable agriculture, off-grid energy solutions, and a deep connection with nature.
Additionally, the remote communities of Crawford County and Juneau County in central Wisconsin offer a peaceful and secluded setting, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and untouched beauty. Wisconsin’s favorable land prices, progressive regulations, and a culture that values independence and sustainability make it a compelling choice for those seeking to disconnect from traditional utilities and embrace a more self-reliant and sustainable way of life amidst the captivating wonders of the Badger State.
Dane County
Dane County is located in the southern part of the state, and one of the main reasons why this is one of the better counties for off grid living is due to its unique geographical position. As Dane County is in the southern part of the state, the winters tend to be relatively milder than in the northern parts of the state. The population density is also fairly low, which means that the cost of land is fairly cheap, currently, there are around 490k people living in an area of 1,197.24 sq mi. If you want to know how to start a homestead without money then check out my recent article How to start a homestead with no money ( In 9 Steps ).
Waukesha County
Waukesha County is located in the southern part of the state, although it has a somewhat higher population density than most counties in Wisconsin but it is still one of the best places for off grid living. Currently, there are around 390k people living in an area of 549.57 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the southeastern parts of the county.
Brown County
Brown County is located in the southern part of the state right next to Lake Michigan. The population density is somewhat high, but most of the population lives in Green Bay, currently, there are around 248k people living in an area of 529.71 sq mi. Brown County is an excellent off grid location, especially for people who want to live in the close proximity of Lake Michigan.
Menominee County
Menominee County is located in the northern part of the state, and this county is excellent for anybody with a tight budget. The cost of property and the cost of land are some of the lowest in the entire state, mostly due to the population density. Currently, there are around 4k people living in an area of 357.61 sq mi, just keep in mind that the winters in Menominee County tend to be a lot colder than in the southern part of the state.
Marathon County
Marathon County is located in the central part of the state, and this is an excellent off grid county for anybody who wants to live as frugally as possible and also own a large plot of land. Due to the large zie of the county, the cost of property and land are relatively low. Currently, there are around 134k people living in an area of 1,544.98 sq mi, your best options for off grid living are in the south and southwestern parts of the county.
Bayfield County
Bayfield County is located in the northern part of the state, although the climate is not ideal for off grid living it is still one of the better places for it. The winters in this county tend to be some of the harshest in the entire state, so I only recommend this place for people who are familiar with the local climate. The population density is one of the lowest in the state, currently, there are around 15k people living in an area of 1,477.86 sq mi. If you want to know how to make soap without lye then check out my recent article How to make soap from scratch without lye? ( Fast & Easy ).
Green County
Green County is located in the southern part of the state, and this county has a lot going for it. The local climate is one of the best in the state for off grid living and due to the low population density, the price of land is also relatively low. Currently, there are around 36k people living in an area of 583.96 sq mi, and your best options for off grid living are in the south and southwestern parts of the county.
Key Takeaways
- Wisconsin is known for its abundance of natural beauty, including lakes, forests, and rolling hills. These natural features provide off-grid residents with access to resources such as fresh water, timber, and fertile soil, supporting activities like fishing, foraging, gardening, and sustainable forestry.
- Wisconsin experiences distinct four seasons, offering opportunities for year-round agricultural activities. The state’s fertile soil and moderate climate make it suitable for growing a variety of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and grains. Off-grid residents can take advantage of the agricultural potential to establish self-sufficient food systems and engage in sustainable farming practices.
- Wisconsin is home to various off-grid communities and individuals who embrace sustainable living practices. These communities provide a supportive network for knowledge sharing, resource exchange, and community building. The state also promotes sustainable initiatives, such as renewable energy projects and local food movements, aligning with the values and lifestyle of off-grid living.
