Demographics

As of 2022, Madison County, MT has a population of approximately 8,175 residents. The median age is 51.3 years, reflecting an older demographic, with 22% aged 65 or older. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 51% male and 49% female. The racial composition is predominantly White (95%), with small percentages of Hispanic or Latino (3%), Native American (1%), and other races (1%).

Elections

Madison County, MT, had approximately 6,730 registered voters as of 2024. The county administers primary, general, and special elections, with polling locations in towns like Virginia City and Ennis. In the 2020 presidential election, 71% voted Republican and 26% Democrat. Voter turnout was near 85%. Key issues include land use and property taxes. Elections are managed by the Madison County Clerk & Recorder. Two main parties—Republican and Democrat—dominate. Voters can register at the clerk’s office or online. The county supports both in-person and mail-in voting to accommodate its rural population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Madison County, MT has 10 public schools serving K-12, including 3 high schools. Graduation rates are around 90%, with 29% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Student-teacher ratios average 11:1. School safety scores are above state averages, and districts offer vocational-technical and college prep programs. Madison County invests in adult education through community college partnerships and continuing education classes, serving approximately 200 adult learners annually.

As of 2022, Madison County, MT, had an employment rate of approximately 63%. The largest employment sectors are accommodation and food services (18%), construction (15%), and health care/social assistance (12%). Major occupation types include management (20%), sales (15%), and construction/maintenance (15%). Around 75% of residents commute by car, with a mean travel time of 19 minutes. Most workers are employed within the county, but about 28% commute to nearby Gallatin County, including Bozeman.

Madison County, MT has a homeownership rate of around 76%, with median home values near $585,000 as of 2023, reflecting a 10% increase over the past year. The median rent is approximately $1,100 monthly. Housing types include single-family homes, ranches, and vacation cabins, notably in neighborhoods like Ennis, Virginia City, and Big Sky. The property tax rate averages 0.74%, resulting in annual taxes of roughly $4,329 on a median-priced home. The area’s housing market is competitive due to tourism and proximity to recreational destinations.

County Crime & Safety

Madison County, MT, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to the latest FBI data, the county reported 18 total crimes in 2022, including 2 violent crimes and 16 property crimes, resulting in a crime rate of approximately 2.3 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement emphasizes community engagement and prompt reporting, contributing to high case resolution rates. Overall, residents report a strong sense of safety, with crime rates steadily declining over the past five years.