Demographics

As of July 2023, Lewis and Clark County, MT, has a population of approximately 71,397. The racial makeup is about 91% White, 3.2% Native American, 1.1% Asian, and 3.4% Hispanic or Latino. The median age is 41.6 years, with 20% under 18 and 19% aged 65 or older. Gender distribution is nearly balanced, with 50.1% female and 49.9% male.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lewis and Clark County, MT, features 38 public schools, including 7 high schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 88%, while 32.6% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Standardized test scores are near the state average, with a 45% proficiency in reading and 38% in math. The county offers adult education and vocational programs through Helena College. School safety incidents remain below the national average, and educational initiatives support STEM and special education.

As of 2023, Lewis and Clark County, MT, has an employment rate of approximately 62%. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (20%), public administration (16%), and retail trade (11%). The most common occupations are management (12%), office/administrative support (11%), and sales (9%). About 85% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 16 minutes; Helena serves as the primary employment hub within the county. Remote work accounts for roughly 12% of jobs, reflecting national shifts toward flexible employment arrangements.

Lewis and Clark County, MT, features a homeownership rate of about 68%, with median home values around $368,000 in 2023—a roughly 6% year-over-year increase. Median gross rent is $1,060 monthly. Housing stock ranges from historic homes in Helena’s South-Central neighborhood to newer suburban developments in East Helena. Typical property taxes are about 0.8% of assessed value, averaging $2,950 annually. The area offers a mix of single-family homes, duplexes, and some apartment complexes, with ongoing demand pushing prices upward. Popular neighborhoods include the Mansion District and Capital Hill, favored for community amenities and walkability.

Elections

Lewis and Clark County, MT, had approximately 49,000 registered voters in 2022. The county administers federal, state, and local elections, with recent turnout around 70% for general elections. Voters select at 19 polling locations or via absentee ballots. In the 2020 Presidential election, 51% voted Democratic and 45% Republican. Key issues include public lands and housing. Elections are overseen by the County Elections Office. The main political parties are Republican and Democratic, with smaller Libertarian and Green Party presence. Registration can be done online, by mail, or in person.

County Crime & Safety

Lewis and Clark County, MT, reported a total crime rate of approximately 2,100 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, with around 350 violent crimes and 1,750 property crimes, according to the Montana Board of Crime Control. The county’s major city, Helena, saw higher crime rates than rural areas. Law enforcement encourages prompt reporting, with over 2,000 annual cases filed. Crime rates have slightly decreased by 3% compared to 2022, reflecting ongoing community safety initiatives. Overall, Lewis and Clark County maintains a moderate crime and safety profile relative to state averages.