Originally published by Business Electric.
The allure of off-grid living continues to grow in the U.S. as more people seek to escape the daily grind and embrace a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle. Interior Alaska offers vast expanses perfect for hunting, fishing, and living close to nature, providing an ideal backdrop for those looking to reconnect with the environment. Flathead Valley, Montana, known for its rugged beauty, offers ample land suitable for homesteading and self-sufficient living. Big Sur, California, is home to retreat centers that provide workshops on spiritual growth, meditation, and holistic practices. These diverse examples highlight the variety of options available for those eager to go off-grid, whether for a short-term retreat or a long-term lifestyle change.
In an era marked by global and national uncertainties, it’s no surprise that millions of Americans are yearning to escape to off-grid havens, seeking solace in a simple yet fulfilling outdoor life. To uncover the most sought-after destinations for off-grid living, BusinessElectric.com surveyed 3,000 respondents. Here are the top five destinations:
#1 Wasco County, Oregon
It’s perhaps unsurprising that Wasco County tops the list for off-grid living. The county gained significant attention as the setting for the Netflix series ‘Wild Wild Country,’ which documents the controversial Rajneeshpuram community led by Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh in the 1980s. Despite the community’s tumultuous end, the show has appeared to have sparked renewed interest in off-grid lifestyles in Wasco County.
#2 Hot Springs County, Wyoming
Ranked second, Hot Springs County in central Wyoming offers a rural environment enriched with natural hot springs, rivers, and mountains. The county’s remote areas provide the essential seclusion and resources necessary for off-grid living.
#3 Meriwether County, Georgia
Located in west-central Georgia, Meriwether County offers a rural setting with large parcels of land available for purchase. The county’s strong agricultural community and abundant natural resources support a sustainable off-grid lifestyle.
#4 Bienville Parish, Louisiana
Situated in northern Louisiana, Bienville Parish provides a rural environment with access to abundant natural resources like forests and water bodies. The parish’s remote areas offer privacy and opportunities for alternative living.
#5 Somerset County, Maine
Completing the top five, Somerset County in central Maine boasts a rural environment with vast forests and access to rivers and lakes. The county’s low population density and natural beauty make it an ideal location for off-grid living.
Survey respondents identified 3 Maryland locations they would choose if they were to live off the grid:
#27 Worcester County
In eastern Maryland, Worcester County includes rural areas with access to the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. The county’s remote areas and agricultural community support a self-sufficient lifestyle.
#72 Garrett County
Located in the westernmost part of Maryland, Garrett County offers a rural environment with mountains, forests, and access to Deep Creek Lake. The county’s low population density and natural resources make it ideal for off-grid living.
#89 Allegany County
Also in western Maryland, Allegany County provides a remote setting with abundant natural beauty, including forests, rivers, and mountains. The county offers ample opportunities for sustainable living.
“In these challenging times, many are looking to reconnect with nature and live more sustainably. Our survey highlights the top destinations for those ready to take the leap into off-grid living, offering diverse and inspiring options across the country,” says Sam Allcock of BusinessElectric.com.
