County Crime & Safety

Fallon County, MT, reports low crime rates compared to national averages. According to FBI data, the county's total crime rate is approximately 620 incidents per 100,000 people, with violent crime at about 60 per 100,000—significantly below the U.S. average. Property crimes, such as theft or burglary, make up most reported cases. Law enforcement maintains regular reporting, and the area enjoys a reputation for safety, with local agencies emphasizing community outreach and crime prevention initiatives to keep crime rates minimal.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Fallon County, Montana, has a population of 2,997. The median age is 39.5 years. Around 52% of residents are male and 48% female. The racial makeup is predominantly White (93.6%), with small percentages of Native American (2.1%), Hispanic or Latino (2.3%), and other races or mixed race (2.0%). The population under age 18 is about 25%, and roughly 18% are 65 or older.

Education, Employment and Housing

Fallon County, MT, serves its K-12 students with two main public schools: Baker High School and Plevna School, with a total enrollment of around 350 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 94%. About 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is a priority, with both schools implementing updated security measures. There are limited adult education opportunities locally. Educational programs focus on core academics, FFA, and extracurriculars. Average standardized test scores are slightly above Montana state averages, with Baker High School scoring a GreatSchools rating of 6/10.

As of 2022, Fallon County, MT, has an employment rate of about 70.2%. Key industries include agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting (employing around 21%), mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction (roughly 19%), and educational services, health care, and social assistance (about 15%). The most common occupations are management, business, science, and arts occupations (24%). Over 80% of residents commute less than 15 minutes to work, mainly within the county, with Baker as the primary employment hub.

Fallon County, MT has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $180,000 as of 2024. The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom unit is approximately $800. Housing stock mainly comprises single-family homes, with a few duplexes and small apartment buildings. Popular neighborhoods include Baker and Plevna, offering quiet, rural living. Property values have seen stable trends, with minor annual increases of 2–3%. Property tax rates average 0.85%, making homeownership relatively affordable compared to national and state averages.

Elections

Fallon County, Montana, had 1,920 registered voters in 2022, with election types including federal, state, and local races. In the 2020 presidential election, 88% voted Republican, 10% Democrat. Polling occurs at the Baker Exhibit Hall (1 Ave SE, Baker). Key issues include agriculture policy and rural healthcare. Elections are managed by the Fallon County Clerk & Recorder’s Office. The county predominantly supports the Republican Party; Democrats remain a minority. Voter turnout reached 79% in 2020. Absentee and early voting options are available, with strict voter ID laws enforced at all polling locations.