Are you thinking of living off grid?

Living off grid has become an increasingly popular choice — people wanting to get back to basics, stop paying for utilities, gain independence, and not worry about constant bills for water, sewer, power, and other services.

If you’re thinking of living off the grid in the United States, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important is which states make off-grid living more realistic and sustainable.

Going off grid isn’t something that happens overnight. Choosing the right location can make the difference between thriving and constantly struggling.

These books aren’t required reading, but they can be helpful if you want to learn from real people who’ve already made the transition to off-grid living.

This book offers a broad overview of food storage, power, shelter, and security — helpful for understanding the full scope of off-grid living before choosing a location.

Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide: Food, Shelter, Security, Off-the-Grid Power and More Life-Saving Strategies for Self-Sufficient Living

Choosing an off-grid life might seem like a bold move to some people, and realistically it does take time to establish your new home and systems.

Homesteading and off-grid energy require careful cost evaluation. You’ll need to consider natural resources such as water availability, sunlight for solar power, climate, land affordability, and local regulations.

Not every state makes off-grid living easy—or even practical—but some are far more accommodating than others.

Keeping all of this in mind, here are some states worth considering when going off grid.

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Off-Grid Living State Comparison

Every off-grid-friendly state has strengths and limitations, so comparing climate, water access, and regulations side by side can help narrow your choices.

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Alaska

For anyone considering Alaska, this personal account shows what daily life really looks like when you leave conventional living behind.

 

Follow Me to Alaska: A true story of one couple’s adventure adjusting from life in a cul-de-sac in El Paso, Texas, to a cabin off-grid in the wilderness of Alaska

Alaska is home to some of the most well-known off-grid communities in the United States. It offers vast open spaces, stunning natural beauty, and an incredibly low population density.

While Alaska is known for cold winters, many southern and coastal areas have more moderate conditions than people expect. Off-grid living here often relies on wood heat, solar during long summer days, and serious preparation for winter.

With the right setup, you can keep livestock and grow food using greenhouses and season-extension techniques.

Alaska is also very homeschooling-friendly. There are no standardized testing requirements, and families often have more freedom than in many other states.

Another major advantage is taxation — Alaska consistently ranks among the states with the lowest overall tax burden, which can make long-term off-grid living more affordable.

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Tennessee

Tennessee has some of the best rural areas for off-grid living. Property costs are relatively low, and the growing season averages around 260 days per year, making food production much easier.

Water is rarely a concern in Tennessee. The state allows rainwater collection, and many areas receive ample rainfall throughout the year.

Tennessee also has fair regulations for raising animals, and sharing raw cow’s milk is allowed, which can be important if farming is part of your off-grid income plan.

The main challenge here is humidity. Summers can be hot and damp, so off-grid homes need good ventilation, shade, and cooling strategies built into the design.

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Washington

Winter’s Comin’: A Lifelong Dream Fulfilled

Washington State offers temperate climates and abundant natural resources that can attract off-grid homesteaders. Building codes and regulations can be strict, and the cost of living is higher in many areas, but rural regions can be far more affordable.

One notable off-grid destination is the Cascade River Community Club, which has over 400 off-grid properties. Some lots can still be found at very low prices, with residents relying on solar power and generators for electricity.

If you choose to build in this community, permits are required, and homes must be at least 200 square feet.

Rainwater collection is allowed, but livestock is highly restricted — only horses are permitted. This makes it better suited for people focused on simple living rather than full homesteading.

Because of these limitations, Washington is better suited for people seeking a low-impact, minimalist off-grid lifestyle rather than full-scale homesteading.

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Montana

This book is a good example of what it takes to build an off-grid homestead from the ground up in a harsh climate.

Montana Homestead: How I Built My Homestead Off Grid In The Wilderness

Montana’s wide-open spaces make it very appealing for off-grid living. Land prices are often affordable, and population density is extremely low.

Weather can be unpredictable, and the growing season is shorter than in many other states. However, a well-built greenhouse can significantly extend food production.

Montana has abundant natural resources, but water rights and county regulations vary, so careful research is essential before purchasing land.

For those willing to plan carefully, Montana offers the space and solitude many off-grid families are looking for.

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Wyoming

While fictional, this story reflects the isolation and self-reliance common in Wyoming’s most remote regions.

Off the Grid (A Joe Pickett Novel Book 16)

Wyoming is ideal if complete isolation is your goal. It has one of the lowest population densities in the country and wide-open landscapes.

Many areas receive plenty of sunlight, making solar power a strong option. Homeschooling laws are relaxed, with no requirements to submit test scores or evaluations.

The challenges include long, cold winters and limited water access. Rainwater collection is generally not permitted, and the state averages only about 13 inches of rainfall per year. The growing season is short — roughly 125 days.

For those who value solitude and independence above convenience, Wyoming remains an attractive option.

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The Bottom Line

Going off grid should always involve a realistic cost-benefit analysis and a clear understanding of what your chosen state allows and restricts.

What works beautifully for one family can be frustrating or unworkable for another.

There is no perfect place to live off grid. Each state comes with trade-offs, and success depends on matching the location to your lifestyle, skills, and expectations.

Before making the move, it helps to commit mentally to the off-grid lifestyle. Flexibility and problem-solving go a long way in adapting to a new way of living.

States with lower costs of living, relaxed homeschooling laws, and fewer regulatory barriers tend to be better suited for long-term off-grid living — but mindset and preparation matter just as much as location.

Off-grid success comes down to preparation, adaptability, and choosing a location that supports your goals—not just your dreams.

Disclosure:
Content on this site is for informational purposes only and reflects personal experience and research. Off-grid living laws and conditions vary by location, so readers should always verify local regulations before making decisions. Some links may be affiliate links, which help support this site at no additional cost to you.

Updated Feb 2026

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