Gallatin County Public RecordsMontana

Gallatin County, MT, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2023, the overall crime rate was 19.2 per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes (2.3 per 1,000) significantly below the U.S. average. Property crimes accounted for the majority, at 16.9 per 1,000 people. The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office actively encourages crime reporting and community involvement, contributing to high case clearance rates. While Bozeman accounts for most incidents, rural areas experience fewer issues. Despite recent population growth, comprehensive reporting and law enforcement initiatives have helped maintain public safety.

Gallatin County, MT, boasts over 50 public schools, including 7 high schools, with a graduation rate of approximately 92%. Around 51% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, above the national average. School safety is a priority, reflected in low incident reports. Programs include Advanced Placement, dual credit, and robust STEM offerings. The county also supports adult education through Gallatin College MSU. Average public school ratings range from 7 to 9 out of 10, indicating high educational quality.

As of 2023, Gallatin County, MT boasts an unemployment rate of approximately 2.6%. Key industries include education and health services (22%), retail trade (13%), and accommodation/food services (12%). The largest occupation sectors are management, business, science, and arts (41%). Around 79% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 17.7 minutes; about 67% work within the county. Major employment hubs include Bozeman and Belgrade, with Montana State University as a prominent employer.

Gallatin County, MT has a homeownership rate of about 62%, with a median home value around $620,000 as of 2024. Median gross rent is approximately $1,500 per month. The housing market remains competitive, with prices rising over 5% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, condos, and apartments, especially in Bozeman, Belgrade, and Big Sky. Popular neighborhoods like Downtown Bozeman and Four Corners attract both buyers and renters. Property taxes average 0.87% of assessed value, making them moderate by national standards. The area combines rapid growth with strong rental demand, especially from students and outdoor enthusiasts.

Gallatin County, Montana, had 92,730 registered voters as of June 2024. The county conducts primary, general, school, and special elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 54.8% voted Democratic and 41.9% Republican. Polling locations include sites in Bozeman, Belgrade, and Three Forks. Issues like affordable housing and land use dominate local ballots. Elections are managed by the Gallatin County Elections Department, with ballot counting centralized in Bozeman. Voter registration is available year-round, and both Democratic and Republican parties are active, often closely contesting key races.

As of 2023, Gallatin County, MT, has an estimated population of about 126,600. The median age is 34.6 years, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female residents. The racial/ethnic makeup is 91.5% White, 0.4% Black, 1.0% Native American, 1.6% Asian, 3.7% Hispanic or Latino, and 3.1% identifying as two or more races. Gallatin is among Montana’s fastest-growing counties, driven by the city of Bozeman.