Broadwater County Public RecordsMontana

Broadwater County, MT, has a lower crime rate compared to national and state averages. In 2023, the violent crime rate was approximately 1.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, and property crime was 9.6 per 1,000. The county sheriff's office reports regular patrols and community engagement efforts to maintain public safety. Data from Montana’s Department of Justice highlights a consistent downward trend in overall crime since 2020, and residents report higher feelings of safety, with 83% indicating they feel secure in their neighborhoods.

Broadwater County, MT, has one public high school—Broadwater High School—with a graduation rate of around 90%. The county’s overall educational attainment shows about 89% of adults have a high school diploma, while approximately 19% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools maintain a student-teacher ratio of about 13:1 and offer career, technical, and dual-credit programs. School safety ratings are above state averages, and adult education is supported through local extension services and a community learning center. Test scores are near the Montana average, with students scoring around 50th percentile on standardized assessments.

Broadwater County, MT had an employment rate of approximately 59% in 2022. Leading industries include agriculture (19%), construction (13%), and education and health services (12%). Most employed residents work in management, business, and science (29%) or sales and office occupations (24%). About 70% of workers commute outside the county, with many traveling to Helena or Bozeman, and the average commute time is 28 minutes. Local government is the largest single employer within the county.

Broadwater County, MT, boasts a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $350,000 as of 2023—a 9% annual increase. Median rent is approximately $1,050 per month. Housing types mainly include single-family homes, with some mobile and manufactured homes. Popular neighborhoods include Townsend and Winston. Property taxes average 0.84% of assessed value, translating to roughly $2,940 annually for a median-priced home. Rental options are limited, with most residents owning their homes, reflecting the county’s rural character and strong demand for owner-occupied properties.

As of the 2020 Census, Broadwater County, MT has a population of approximately 6,774 residents. The median age is 45.3 years, reflecting a relatively older population. About 50.5% are male and 49.5% female. The racial makeup is predominantly White (94%), with small percentages of Native American (2%), Hispanic or Latino (2.6%), and other races (1.4%). The county is largely rural and less diverse compared to state and national averages.

Broadwater County, MT, had 4,156 registered voters in the 2022 general election. Elections held include federal, state, county, and local measures, typically administered by the Broadwater County Election Office in Townsend. In 2020, 75% voted Republican and 23% Democrat in the presidential contest. Main polling location is the Courthouse at 515 Broadway. Key issues include land use and water rights. The county leans Republican, with GOP candidates consistently winning by large margins. Election administration follows Montana state guidelines, and both early voting and absentee ballots are available to all registered voters.