Rosebud County Public RecordsMontana

Rosebud County, MT, experiences a moderate crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 245 crimes, including 17 violent crimes (such as assault and robbery) and 228 property crimes. The crime rate stands at roughly 2,086 incidents per 100,000 residents, higher than Montana's state average of 1,920. Law enforcement actively addresses these incidents, with a clearance rate of about 36%. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities promptly to help maintain safety and reduce crime rates further.

As of the 2020 Census, Rosebud County, MT, had a population of 8,329. The median age was 37.6 years. Approximately 51.6% were male and 48.4% female. Racially, the population was 59.1% White, 34.2% American Indian, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 4.6% of the total population.

Rosebud County, Montana, had 6,073 registered voters as of 2022. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with major races often decided between Republican and Democratic parties—Donald Trump received 61.7% of the vote in the 2020 presidential election. Polling locations include Forsyth Civic Center and Colstrip City Hall. Key election issues involve agriculture, energy, and tribal affairs due to a significant Northern Cheyenne population. Elections are administered by the County Election Administrator under state law. In 2022, voter turnout was approximately 65%.

Rosebud County, MT, serves around 1,000 K-12 students across six public schools, including Colstrip High School and Forsyth High School. Graduation rates average 89%, while about 17% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools score an average of 6/10 on state performance metrics. Adult education programs are available through community initiatives. School safety measures include security officers and regular drills. Educational offerings feature Advanced Placement (AP), vocational training, and Native American studies, supporting diverse student pathways.

As of 2022, Rosebud County, MT, had an employment rate of 58.4%. Major industries include agriculture, forestry, fishing & hunting (15%), mining, quarrying, oil & gas extraction (21%), healthcare & social assistance (13%), and educational services (9%). The most common occupations are production (18%), office & administrative support (15%), and management (11%). About 76% of residents drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 17.5 minutes, and most employment is concentrated in Colstrip, Forsyth, and surrounding rural areas.

Rosebud County, MT, has a homeownership rate of approximately 66%, with median home values around $170,000. Rentals comprise 34% of housing, with median gross rent near $770 per month. The housing market remains stable, though prices have risen about 4% annually in recent years. Housing types include mostly single-family homes with some multifamily units, especially in Forsyth and Colstrip neighborhoods. Property tax rates average 0.81% of assessed value, resulting in an annual tax bill of roughly $1,370 for typical properties. The area offers affordable rural living and modest growth.