County Crime & Safety

Lincoln County, MT, reported a crime rate lower than the national average in recent years. In 2022, there were approximately 180 reported crimes, including 16 violent crimes and 164 property crimes. The violent crime rate is 1.4 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at about 14 per 1,000. Theft and burglary constitute the majority of offenses. Law enforcement encourages prompt crime reporting, and community awareness programs have contributed to a gradual decrease in incidents. Overall, Lincoln County is considered relatively safe compared to many other counties in Montana.

Elections

Lincoln County, Montana, had 15,010 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with polling locations in Libby, Troy, and Eureka. In the 2020 presidential election, 74% voted Republican and 23% Democrat. The Election Administrator handles logistics, with major parties being Republican and Democrat; Libertarian candidates appear occasionally. Key issues include public lands, timber, and healthcare. In-person and absentee voting are available. The county typically reports high voter turnout, over 70% in general elections.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lincoln County, MT, serves over 2,100 students across 13 public schools, including 3 high schools. About 89% of residents hold a high school diploma, while roughly 15% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores in the area are below the Montana state average. Adult education opportunities are limited but available through Flathead Valley Community College satellite programs. School safety initiatives include secure campuses and partnerships with local law enforcement. Educational offerings feature vocational training, special education, and extracurricular activities to support student success.

As of 2022, Lincoln County, MT, had an employment rate of approximately 47% among residents aged 16+, with about 7,000 people employed. Leading industries include health care/social assistance (17%), retail trade (14%), and construction (12%). Major occupation types are management, sales, and production. Median commute time is about 21 minutes, with roughly 75% of workers commuting by car, often within the county. Forestry and tourism also contribute notably to the local economy.

Lincoln County, MT has a homeownership rate of about 80%, with median home values around $293,000 and median gross rent near $860/month. The county's housing market has seen property values rise by roughly 15% in the past year. Single-family homes dominate, but there are cabins and manufactured homes as well. Popular neighborhoods include Libby, Eureka, and Troy. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.74% of assessed value annually. The area offers a mix of rural and small-town environments, attracting both retirees and families seeking affordability and scenic living.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Lincoln County, MT, had a population of 19,677. The median age was 50.1 years, with 22.3% under 18 and 26.2% aged 65 or older. The population was 51% male and 49% female. Racially, the county was predominantly White (93.6%), with small populations identifying as American Indian (2%), Hispanic or Latino (2.9%), and two or more races (2.9%).