Powder River County Public RecordsMontana

As of the 2020 Census, Powder River County, MT had a population of 1,694. The median age was 46.2 years. Approximately 51% were male and 49% female. Racially, the county was 95.7% White, 1.1% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 2.7% identifying as two or more races; 1.3% were Hispanic or Latino. The population is sparsely distributed, typical of rural Montana counties.

Powder River County, MT, has one public K-12 district, Powder River County District High School, serving about 110 students. High school graduation rates are approximately 94%, but only around 15% of adults 25+ hold a bachelor’s degree. There are no colleges in the county. School safety is rated average, with no major incidents reported. Educational programs include agriculture, sports, and FFA. Adult basic education is limited, primarily offered through distance programs. Test scores are slightly below the state average, with a 2023 average ACT composite score of 18.5 compared to Montana’s 19.6.

As of 2023, Powder River County, MT, has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.6%. The county's workforce is primarily employed in agriculture (41%), followed by education and health services (17%), and retail trade (10%). Management, farming, and construction are predominant occupation types. Around 69% of workers are employed within the county, while 31% commute to neighboring areas, with an average commute time of 18 minutes. Public administration and transportation also contribute notably to employment, reflecting the county’s rural, agriculture-driven economy.

Powder River County, MT has a homeownership rate of approximately 76%, with a median home value around $170,000 (2022 estimates). Median gross rent is about $570 per month. Housing is largely composed of single-family detached homes, with rural neighborhoods and ranch-style properties dominating the landscape. The real estate market has remained relatively stable, with modest value increases over recent years. Property tax rates average around 1% of assessed value, making the area relatively affordable. The area offers quiet, low-density living, appealing to those seeking space and a slower pace.

Powder River County, MT, has among the lowest crime rates in the state, with a violent crime rate of 0.9 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2.7 per 1,000 as of 2023. In 2022, the sheriff's office reported fewer than 10 total crime incidents, with no homicides or robberies. The rural nature of the county and strong community ties contribute to its high safety record. Residents rely on the local sheriff's office for timely reporting, with most crimes being minor thefts or traffic violations.

Powder River County, Montana, has approximately 1,600 residents, with around 1,200 registered voters as of 2022. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, with major parties being Republican and Democrat—2020 presidential results were 85% Republican, 13% Democrat. The county has three polling locations: Broadus, Biddle, and Moorhead. Key issues include agriculture, land use, and rural healthcare. Voter turnout often exceeds 75%. The Clerk and Recorder administers elections, ensuring compliance with Montana laws. Republican candidates generally dominate, reflecting the county’s conservative leaning.