I think that there is much to be said for choosing a cold climate for relocation if one is serious about prepping. The northern halves of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan are some of the most sparsely populated regions in the lower 48, and especially in Minnesota, see extreme cold for long periods of the winter.
While facing the danger of freezing to death each winter is a big drawback in a true SHTF world, keep in mind that most people are completely unprepared for such a situation. The Twin Cities, Milwaukee, and Chicago are too far from these areas for any marauders/politically motivated militias to "raid" with any regularity at least, and in the winter, deep snow and subzero cold would prevent people from traveling north.
Hard winters keep parasite and insect populations in check compared to warmer climes. The northwoods, great lakes, and tributaries are relatively unspoiled and could provide plenty of fish and game for a reasonably good hunter. No shortage of wood to use for heating and building, and plenty of fresh water with almost no forest fire/earthquake/hurricane threat. The short growing season would make farming somewhat dicey without a greenhouse but I believe the advantages above would outweigh that given some preparation.
If one chooses to put stock in current climate change projections, these cold areas will not become hellish like Dallas, which already sees months above 100F each summer.
There is also a lot of land for sale at low prices (~$1000 per acre or less in remote areas).
If you don't mind bundling up, these areas should be excellent permanent bug-out locations.
While facing the danger of freezing to death each winter is a big drawback in a true SHTF world, keep in mind that most people are completely unprepared for such a situation. The Twin Cities, Milwaukee, and Chicago are too far from these areas for any marauders/politically motivated militias to "raid" with any regularity at least, and in the winter, deep snow and subzero cold would prevent people from traveling north.
Hard winters keep parasite and insect populations in check compared to warmer climes. The northwoods, great lakes, and tributaries are relatively unspoiled and could provide plenty of fish and game for a reasonably good hunter. No shortage of wood to use for heating and building, and plenty of fresh water with almost no forest fire/earthquake/hurricane threat. The short growing season would make farming somewhat dicey without a greenhouse but I believe the advantages above would outweigh that given some preparation.
If one chooses to put stock in current climate change projections, these cold areas will not become hellish like Dallas, which already sees months above 100F each summer.
There is also a lot of land for sale at low prices (~$1000 per acre or less in remote areas).
If you don't mind bundling up, these areas should be excellent permanent bug-out locations.