Wheatland County Public RecordsMontana

Wheatland County, MT, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to the latest FBI data, the county reported around 20 total crimes in 2022, with violent crimes being exceptionally rare—less than 2 incidents per year. Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, comprise the majority of offenses, with a rate of about 6 per 1,000 residents. The local sheriff's office emphasizes prompt response and community reporting, contributing to high safety levels for the county's population of approximately 2,000 people.

Wheatland County, Montana, had approximately 1,500 registered voters as of 2022. The county holds federal, state, and local elections, typically voting Republican—80% supported GOP candidates in the 2020 presidential race. Key issues include agriculture policy and rural healthcare. Voting occurs at designated polling locations in Harlowton and Shawmut. The Wheatland County Election Administrator manages elections, ensuring compliance with state laws. Major parties present are Republican and Democratic, though local races often see nonpartisan competition.

As of the 2020 Census, Wheatland County, MT, had a population of 2,069. The median age was 51.6 years, with 24% aged 65 or older and 18% under 18. The county's population is 94.8% White, 1.0% American Indian/Alaska Native, 2.0% two or more races, and 2.2% Hispanic or Latino. Gender distribution is approximately 51% male and 49% female.

Wheatland County, MT has one public high school—Harlowton High—with about 90 students and a graduation rate near 90%. The county has three public schools total, serving roughly 220 students K-12. There are no colleges or universities in Wheatland County, and only 16% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety incidents are rare, and individualized instruction is common due to small class sizes. Educational programs include dual credit, FFA, and vocational training, with average test scores in reading and math close to state averages. Adult education options are limited, often accessed online or in nearby counties.

Wheatland County, MT has an employment rate of approximately 53%, with a labor force of around 800 people. Agriculture dominates, employing over 27% of workers, followed by educational, health, and social services at 19%, and retail trade at 9%. Common occupations include management (22%), office/administrative support (12%), and farming/fishing/forestry (11%). Most residents (over 85%) work within the county, with an average commute time of 14 minutes. Approximately 70% of the workforce drives alone, while 14% carpool. Unemployment hovers near 3.5%, reflecting the rural, agriculture-based economy.

Wheatland County, MT, offers mostly single-family homes with a median property value of around $152,000 as of 2024. About 75% of residents own their homes, while 25% rent, with median monthly rent near $620. Housing types are primarily detached homes, with some mobile homes and limited multi-family units. Neighborhoods are rural with agricultural character, centered around Harlowton. Property values have shown modest annual growth of about 2%. Property taxes average 0.8% of assessed value, significantly below the national average, making homeownership relatively affordable in this quiet Montana county.