Phillips County Public RecordsMontana

Phillips County, Montana, had approximately 2,600 registered voters in 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with polling locations including Malta City Hall and Saco Fire Hall. In the 2020 presidential election, 78% voted Republican and 20% Democrat. Major issues include agriculture policy and rural infrastructure. The Clerk & Recorder’s office oversees election administration. Voters generally favor the Republican Party, reflecting the county’s conservative leanings. Both absentee and in-person voting options are available.

Phillips County, MT, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, there were 32 reported crimes, including 2 violent crimes and 30 property crimes, with no homicides recorded. The violent crime rate was 1.2 per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate was 18 per 1,000. The Phillips County Sheriff’s Office regularly reports and responds to incidents, maintaining community safety. Overall, residents experience a safer environment than many other Montana counties.

As of the 2020 Census, Phillips County, Montana, had a population of about 4,217. The median age is approximately 45 years. Males make up 50.3% and females 49.7% of residents. Around 87% identify as White, 9% as American Indian or Alaska Native, 2% as Hispanic or Latino, and the remainder as other races or multiracial. The county's population density is low, reflecting its rural character.

Phillips County, MT, has five public schools serving around 500 students, including Malta High School as the primary high school. Graduation rates are about 95%, but only 16% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. The average school rating is 6/10. Safety measures are emphasized, with low reported incidents. Educational programs include vocational training, FFA, and dual enrollment for college credit. Adult education opportunities are offered through community partnerships, supporting lifelong learning in this rural county.

As of 2022, Phillips County, MT has an employment rate of approximately 60%. The largest industries are agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (30%), followed by educational services, and health care (23%). Most residents work in management, business, science, and arts occupations (32%), with about 75% commuting by car, and an average commute time of 14 minutes. Major employment locations are Malta and surrounding agricultural areas, with fewer than 8% working outside the county. Unemployment hovers around 2.9%.* \n\n*Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, Montana DLI.

Phillips County, MT, has a homeownership rate of about 73%, with median home values around $140,000 as of 2023; rents average $625 monthly. The market shows slow appreciation, with values rising roughly 2% annually. Housing is primarily single-family homes, with some mobile and manufactured homes. Malta is the largest town, while Saco and Whitewater are smaller communities. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.8% of home value. The region offers rural neighborhoods with spacious lots and access to outdoor recreation, appealing to buyers seeking affordable, small-town living.