Off-grid living is gaining traction in the United States, with an estimated 12 percent of households living off the grid by 2035. Combining sustainable living with renewable energy solutions offers a chance to live in nature and enjoy a lower way of living.
Building an off-grid home or cabin is possible in any state. Still, some states are better suited and more friendly to the idea of households living in off-grid housing.
The challenge is exploring the best states for living off-grid and finding one that matches your preferences for nature and values. The good news is that you’ve come to the perfect place to learn more about off-grid living tips and the best states to consider for your homestead. Continue reading to take your family off-grid today!
Alabama
Alabama isn’t what most people picture when imagining a picturesque, off-grid lifestyle, but it has several benefits working in its favor. Alabama provides an easygoing style of living, allowing you to improve your property without worrying about complaining neighbors.
The cost of living is also low, while fertile land and access to water are high. Households looking to move off-grid will also love the affordable land costs. You can purchase a sizable plot for a reasonable amount, and the warm climate provides a long growing season.
It’s an excellent option if you’re seeking an area with a low population to buy land and build a homestead. Consider Alabama if you want mild winters and enough sunlight to use off-grid solar for your energy needs. Contact your local solar provider for a top solar installation.
California
California has all the resources to be an off-grid haven, but the high cost of living is enough to deter many people from exploring their options in the Land of Milk and Honey. The state has a robust farming industry due to the vast amounts of fertile soil.
Many people living an off-grid lifestyle in California live “plugged in.” These individuals use the internet but live an otherwise off-grid lifestyle. It’s the best combination for households craving the best of both worlds.
Consider buying land in Northern California if you want to begin sustainable living. You’ll find several communities established in the northern part of the state focused on living off the grid.
Alaska
Alaska is called “The Last Frontier” for a reason, and the abundance of natural resources makes it a homesteader’s dream. You’ll find affordable land with a low population, providing the ideal environment for improving your property.
The laws are lax, making it easy for aspiring homesteaders and people craving off-grid living to do what they want to create the ideal farm or home setup. The law allows you to garden without restriction. You can also raise farm animals under the condition you have fenced pastures and warm housing for them to live in.
The most significant drawback of Alaska for some is the intense winters. If you love cold and snow, Alaska is a paradise for living off the grid. The only challenge is finding access to off-grid living supplies.
Missouri
The Show-Me State is an unheralded treasure in the heart of the Midwest, and it offers several benefits for families looking for a place to start living off the grid. Sticking to the rural areas is best to avoid facing superfluous laws and zoning regulations.
Most towns have building restrictions, but land in rural areas will remain free of those regulations. You’ll love the relaxed laws regarding homesteading in Missouri, and it’s an excellent state if you want to experience all four seasons.
You’ll find plenty of water; the growing season is long enough to produce bountiful crops. Add the farmer’s markets in the region and large plots of land available, and you’ll find that Missouri is one of the best states for living off-grid.
Tennessee
Tennessee is in the heart of Appalachia, and it’s an excellent location to start sustainable living with your family. It has a warm growing season with plenty of access to water, and the soil is fertile enough to handle any crops you want to grow.
You’ll enjoy fresh water from the Appalachian mountains surrounding your property. The local communities are often rural and focused on living a sustainable lifestyle off the land. The land is also affordable, making Tennessee an excellent option for building an off-grid homestead.
Tips for Off-Grid Living
The first thing to do when planning to move to one of the best states for living off-grid is to find the ideal location. Find a climate that suits your needs and preferences and provides ample sunlight for off-grid solar panels.
The wildlife is also worth considering when weighing your options. It’s also beneficial to have multiple power sources for your homestead.
Dependence on one option can create a dangerous situation for your family. Solar, water, and wind power are natural energy solutions you can harness to power your property and maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Collecting rainwater is a fantastic way to keep up with your family’s water needs without drilling a well or connecting your homestead to the local municipality’s water system. With a well-designed system, you’ll collect an impressive amount of water with minimal rainfall.
Digging a well is a viable option, but it’s expensive. The price rises with lower water tables due to the need to dig deeper. Weigh your options to find the best fit for your budget and lifestyle.
Create a garden to keep up with your food needs and minimize trips into town. Livestock is another option worth weighing to add to your food supplies.
Consider Moving to the Best States for Living Off-Grid
If you’ve reached a point where you’re ready to leave it all behind, it’s worth looking for real estate in the best states for living off-grid. Surprisingly, options like Alabama and Missouri provide longer growing seasons with limited laws for homesteading.
Alaska is another option for ultimate freedom and a low population, with ample access to off-grid solar. Solar technology is opening new possibilities for alternative lifestyles in nature.
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