Golden Valley County Public RecordsMontana

Golden Valley County, Montana, had an estimated population of 772 in 2023. The median age is around 52 years, reflecting an older demographic. About 51% of residents are male and 49% female. The population is predominantly White (over 96%), with small percentages of American Indian and Alaska Native individuals (~2%), and those identifying as two or more races (about 1%). Hispanic or Latino residents comprise less than 2% of the total population.

Golden Valley County, Montana, had 606 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and local elections, with polling at the Ryegate Civic Center and Lavina Senior Center. In the 2020 presidential vote, 79% supported the Republican candidate and 18% chose the Democrat. Administration is managed by the County Clerk and Recorder. Key issues include agriculture and rural infrastructure. The electorate predominantly favors the Republican Party, with occasional independent candidates. Voter turnout in recent elections has ranged from 60% to 75%.

Golden Valley County, MT, has 2 public schools, including one high school (Ryegate High School). High school graduation rates are approximately 90%, while about 17% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Test scores are generally near the state average, with school safety rated high due to low crime rates. Educational programming is limited due to the small population, but schools offer basic athletics and extracurriculars. Adult education options are minimal within the county, so residents often utilize distance learning or nearby colleges for further education.

Golden Valley County, MT, has an employment rate of about 56%. The largest industries are agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (34%), educational and health services (13%), and retail trade (10%). Most workers are employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations (41%), followed by natural resources, construction, and maintenance (28%). Approximately 75% of residents commute less than 25 minutes to work, primarily within the county or to neighboring counties. Remote work remains minimal, with under 5% working from home. (Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 American Community Survey)

Golden Valley County, MT, features a homeownership rate of about 71%, with median home values around $102,000 and typical rents near $650 per month. Housing stock is mainly single-family homes, many built before 1980, concentrated in communities such as Ryegate and Lavina. Property values have remained stable in recent years, reflecting the county's rural character and modest growth. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.8% of assessed value. Rental options are limited, with most residents owning their homes. Neighborhoods are quiet and spread out, offering scenic views and a close-knit, small-town atmosphere.

Golden Valley County, MT, consistently reports some of the lowest crime rates in the state. According to 2022 statistics, the violent crime rate stands at 42.2 per 100,000 people—well below the Montana average of 377.2. Property crime rates are similarly low at 84.5 per 100,000 compared to the state average of 2,651.8. The county’s rural nature and small population (c. 782 residents) contribute to these low figures. Local law enforcement reports suggest minimal annual incidents, making Golden Valley one of Montana’s safest counties.