More people are ditching the grid in search of simplicity and self-sufficiency. If you’re ready to embrace a sustainable, off-grid lifestyle, these 12 spots in North America are perfect.
Set in mountains and remote wilderness areas, these locations offer the freedom to disconnect and thrive off the land. Each one provides unique benefits for an off-grid lifestyle.
We chose these locations for their balance of isolation, access to natural resources, and community support. While there are other places to go off-grid, these stood out for their overall livability.
1. New Mexico
New Mexico is famous for Earthships, homes built primarily from reclaimed materials like tires and plastic bottles. These houses are designed to be self-sufficient, capturing rainwater and using thermal mass to regulate temperature. The Earthship concept was popularized by Mike Reynolds starting in the 1980s and has inspired many to build similar homes.
2. Alaska
Alaska offers vast, remote areas perfect for off-grid living. The state has affordable land and abundant natural resources despite its cold reputation. With its wilderness and fewer regulations, Alaska attracts those who want to live independently and sustainably.
3. Lasqueti Island, Canada
Lasqueti Island is an eco-village in Canada where about 400 residents focus on sustainability and self-sufficiency. Life here involves working on tasks like energy production, gardening, and waste management. Residents balance their work with time for hobbies and studies.
4. Oregon
Oregon offers diverse climates, with a rainy western region and semi-arid eastern region. Whether you prefer lush forests and rain or open landscapes for ranching, Oregon has something for you. The Cascade Range provides a stunning backdrop and affects the climate across the state.
5. Missouri
Missouri is a great place in the Midwest for off-grid living due to its abundant natural resources and relatively lenient regulations. The climate features hot, humid summers and cold winters, makes it a comfortable place to live with proper preparation. Its central location also provides easy access to other parts of the country.
6. North Carolina
Despite being on the East Coast, North Carolina offers excellent opportunities for off-grid living. The state has various events related to prepping, homesteading, and survival, making it ideal for beginners. The mild climate and rich soil make it a great place for gardening and farming.
7. Vermont
Vermont is an off-grid dream with its relaxed zoning laws and beautiful natural surroundings. The state’s rural areas allow for a peaceful lifestyle, though there are some small towns and cities. The main challenge here is the cold winters, so a well-insulated home is essential.
8. Texas
Texas attracts off-grid families with its warm climate and affordable land. However, water availability can be a challenge in some areas, and the state is prone to severe weather like thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Despite these challenges, Texas offers plenty of space and resources for self-sufficient living.
9. Montana
Montana, like Alaska, has vast, remote areas perfect for an off-grid lifestyle. The state’s laws are generally favorable for homesteaders, though the growing season is short and winters can be severe. Strong winds in some areas can be advantageous for wind power, and a greenhouse can help extend your gardening season.
10. Ohio
Ohio is becoming a popular spot for off-grid living due to its low cost of living, affordable real estate, and fewer zoning laws. This allows for creativity in building your homestead. Although some areas are experiencing increased population density, it remains a great place to establish an off-grid lifestyle for now.
11. Tennessee
Tennessee is a fantastic state for off-grid living due to its mild climate, fertile soil, and affordable land. The state’s lenient building codes and low property taxes make setting up a sustainable homestead easier. With ample rainfall and a long growing season, Tennessee is ideal for gardening and farming.
12. Idaho
Idaho is an excellent choice for those seeking a remote and rugged off-grid lifestyle. The state offers vast wilderness areas, affordable land, and a relatively low cost of living. Idaho’s climate includes cold winters and warm summers, providing a unique environment for self-sufficiency. The state’s strong agricultural heritage and access to natural resources make it a great place to build an independent, off-grid life.
20 Crucial Supplies for Surviving a Societal Collapse
In the face of uncertainty, being well-prepared gives you at least some degree of control and security. The thought of a societal collapse, while extreme, prompts us to consider how we might endure without the conveniences of our current lifestyle. Here’s a list of 20 essential items that could prove indispensable in such a scenario. This guide isn’t about succumbing to fear but embracing preparedness and resilience.
14 Essential Canned Goods for Your Emergency Pantry
I firmly believe in keeping a well-stocked emergency pantry. While fresh food is ideal, in a survival situation, we may not be that lucky. So, for my family, even though we grow a lot of our own food, canned goods play a crucial role in emergency preparedness. They offer a reliable source of nutrition when access to fresh produce may be limited. The goods you stockpile should be affordable, easy to store, and full of nutrition.
Best Regions in the U.S. to Escape to When Society Collapses
Choosing a refuge in the event of societal collapse involves weighing the pros and cons of each location against your personal preparedness goals and abilities. Whether you’re drawn to the solitude of the desert or the protective heights of the mountains, the key is finding a place that offers safety and the opportunity for growth and renewal.
