Homesteading is known to be an off-the-grid lifestyle where people produce their own food. This farmer-like lifestyle can be done in pretty much any state; however, some states are better for homesteading than others. The homesteading lifestyle involves agriculture, growing your own food on a farm and doing farm chores, among other tasks. Some might produce their own textiles or clothing, others might do craft work, make sourdough bread, grow a garden or flowers, keep bee hives, or raise chickens and cows.
Regardless of what you do, this lifestyle requires work and focus. Financially, this is also a great lifestyle for saving money. With the cost of this lifestyle being lower than living in a large city, there are also different factors that you have to consider. For example, climate, safety and accessibility are all issues pertaining to homesteading. You have to make sure you have a plan for extreme weather conditions, access to food and water and consider which plants and crops will grow best in your area.
If you plan on having a family and kids, you need to factor in schooling, chores and activities to do. Navigating local laws, cost of land and what the community is like in certain areas are also important tasks to do before figuring out if the homestead lifestyle is for you.
Homesteading has been practiced for a long time and can be traced back to the Homestead Act of 1862. Black families started to adhere to the homestead lifestyle after the 1866 Civil Rights Act. They built a life for themselves and their communities that allowed them to thrive.
Homesteading also allows many benefits including a slower and quieter life, the value of self-sufficiency, the opportunity to work hard and the benefit of enjoying your own food. For those looking to move into this lifestyle, here are the best states for homesteading.
Tennessee
- Population: 7,204,002
- Public School Rating: B
- Average Home Price: $378,900
- Walkability: Moderate to Low
Rural Tennessee has one of the best harvesting seasons, which usually lasts nine out of the 12 months. Tennessee is prone to fewer natural disasters such as hurricanes and tornadoes. The state is also on your side as a homesteader, with an automatic homestead exemption of up to $5000.
For Black Families: Around 16 percent of Black residents live in Tennessee. This state is not only perfect for the homestead lifestyle, but it’s a great place for raising families.
For Young Professionals: If you’re a young professional wanting to live a slow and steady lifestyle, consider the homestead lifestyle in rural Tennessee. Take on a few hobbies like baking or gardening while taking care of your property, food, plants and animals.
Oregon
- Population: 4,233,358
- Public School Rating: A
- Average Home Price: $499,000
- Walkability: Low to Moderate
Oregon is one of the best states for homesteading because of its great climate and water supply. It’s known as a state for homestead farmers because of the many benefits the state offers. From low property taxes to a large farming community, over 30,000 small farms reside in Oregon.
For Black Families: Around two percent of Black residents live in Oregon. For families looking to get into the homestead lifestyle, this is the perfect state. Not only is there a large community of homestead farmers, but Oregon also offers plenty of family-friendly activities including hiking, national parks and beaches. The state also offers up to a 50,000 homestead exemption for married couples.
For Young Professionals: Take advantage of all of the outdoor amenities and farming communities that Oregon has to offer. With up to $40,000 in homestead exemptions for single residents, Oregon provides everything that young farmers need.
Missouri
- Population: 6,196,156
- Public School Rating: B
- Average Home Price: $248,300
- Walkability: Low to Moderate
For Black Families: Missouri has a higher percentage of Black residents than some homestead states. It’s a great place to start your homestead lifestyle because of the homeschool laws and the freedom to plant and do what you want on your property. The low cost of living here makes this one of the best states for homesteading.
For Young Professionals: For young people looking to move to a state where it’s easy to start a homestead lifestyle, Missouri is a great place to live. It has the perfect weather for growing food and plants and you can get a $15,000 homestead exemption.
Montana
- Population: 1,132,812
- Public School Rating: B
- Average Home Price: $456,000
- Walkability: Low to Moderate
From gorgeous landscapes to great spring and summer seasons for growing, Montana is the best state for the homestead lifestyle. The average home price is less than $500,000 in this state, making it affordable for those wanting to live in a rural area of Montana
For Black Families: While Montana has less than one percent of Black residents, it’s a very family-oriented state. Montana is one of the best and a natural state for homesteading. Homeschooling laws are fairly good in this state and up to $350,000 can be protected under the homestead declaration of this state.
For Young Professionals: Montana is a great starter state for the homestead lifestyle. If you’re a young person who enjoys parks, beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, you’ll love living in Montana.
Alaska
- Population: 733,406
- Public School Rating: B
- Average Home Price: $367,900
- Walkability: Low to Moderate
Alaska might not be one of the states that comes to mind when you think of growing food, but it’s actually one of the best states for homesteading. If you’re looking for adventure and a challenge, consider starting or moving your homestead journey to Alaska. This state offers tons of natural beauty to delve into, from mountains to trees to snow.
For Black Families: For families looking for a change of scenery, Alaska is a great state for raising families and living the homestead lifestyle. Because of its unique climate, living in Alaska does pose some challenges for farmers, but crops can be adapted in the cold climate.
For Young Professionals: If you’re a long person who loves adventure, Alaska just might be the place for you. While the homestead lifestyle is slower and simpler, you can take advantage of the natural beauty, landscapes, mountains and snow that the state has to offer.
