Meagher County Public RecordsMontana

Meagher County, Montana, has a 2022 estimated population of about 1,950 residents. The median age is 53, reflecting an older demographic. Approximately 52% are male and 48% female. The county is predominantly White (94.6%), with smaller populations identifying as Hispanic or Latino (2.9%), Native American (0.4%), and two or more races (2%). The area remains sparsely populated and largely rural.

Meagher County, Montana, had 1,276 registered voters in 2022. The county holds federal, state, and local elections, with major parties being Republican and Democrat; in the 2020 presidential election, 79% voted Republican and 17% Democrat. Voting occurs at the Meagher County Courthouse in White Sulphur Springs. Administration is handled by the County Clerk and Recorder’s Office. Key issues include land use and agriculture. Voter turnout often exceeds 75%. Republicans typically dominate county offices, with limited third-party presence. Early and absentee voting options are available in addition to Election Day voting.

Meagher County, MT has a small educational system, featuring 3 public schools, including White Sulphur Springs High School. About 89% of adults hold a high school diploma, while roughly 18% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Student-teacher ratios average 10:1, and statewide assessments show scores near the state average. School safety records are strong with minimal reported incidents. Adult education opportunities are limited locally but available through online state programs. Specialized programs focus on agriculture and trades, reflecting community needs.

Meagher County, MT, has an unemployment rate of around 3.0% (as of 2022). Key employment sectors include agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting (22%), educational services, health care, social assistance (18%), and retail trade (12%). About 55% of residents work in management, business, sciences, and arts occupations. The mean commute time is 16 minutes, with over 80% of workers driving alone. Most employment is concentrated in local businesses and government, with some residents commuting to neighboring counties like Broadwater and Gallatin for work.

Meagher County, MT, has a homeownership rate of about 80%, with median home values near $220,000 as of 2024. Rental options are limited, with median rents around $800/month. Single-family homes dominate, alongside some ranches and older properties. Most housing is located in White Sulphur Springs, the county seat, and a few rural neighborhoods. The property tax rate averages 0.8%, making taxes modest. Recent years have seen property values rise roughly 7% annually, driven by increased interest in rural Montana living. Housing inventory remains low, sustaining the upward trend in prices.

Meagher County, MT is known for its low crime rates compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported only 1 violent crime and 6 property crimes in 2022, resulting in a crime rate of approximately 3.7 offenses per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement presence is limited due to the rural setting, but the community’s close-knit nature aids in crime reporting and prevention. Overall, residents experience a high level of safety, with crime rates significantly lower than both state and national levels.