countyscore
63
County Score
Safety 75.2Schools 68.8Property Tax 67

County Report Card

About Beaverhead County, Montana

Beaverhead outperforms the national median

Beaverhead County earns a strong composite score of 63.0, placing it significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a quality of life that exceeds expectations for much of the rural United States.

A top-tier Montana performer

The county's overall score of 63.0 beats the Montana state average of 56.4 by a wide margin. It stands out as a high-performing region within the state, offering better-than-average stability and services.

Safe streets and strong schools

Beaverhead excels in community safety with a score of 75.2 and provides high-quality education with a school score of 68.8. Residents also benefit from a favorable tax environment, evidenced by a low effective tax rate of 0.665%.

Lower incomes and water concerns

The local economy faces hurdles with an income score of only 32.9 and a median household income of $58,072. Additionally, the water quality score of 32.9 suggests infrastructure or environmental factors that require local attention.

Perfect for safety-conscious families

Beaverhead is an ideal destination for families who prioritize low crime and reliable schools over high-paying local jobs. With median rents at just $800, it offers a secure and accessible lifestyle for those who can work remotely or locally.

Score breakdown

Tax67Cost57Safety75.2Health66.1Schools68.8Income32.9Risk57.1Water32.9Weather46.5
🏛67
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠57
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼32.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡75.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤66.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡57.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧32.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱27.9
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Beaverhead County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Beaverhead County

via TaxByCounty

Beaverhead's taxes run below national average

At 0.665%, Beaverhead's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of roughly 0.87%, placing the county in the lower half nationally. The median tax bill here is $1,876—nearly 30% less than the national median of $2,690.

Below-average rates across Montana

Beaverhead ranks in the middle tier of Montana counties, with an effective rate 13% below the state average of 0.767%. At $1,876 in median taxes, the county actually trails the state median of $1,802 by just $74, thanks to competitive home values.

Beaverhead sits between Big Horn and Broadwater

Among nearby southwest Montana counties, Beaverhead's 0.665% rate falls between Big Horn's 1.000% and Broadwater's 0.606%. The median home value of $282,000 is the highest in this cluster, balancing the lower tax rate.

Annual tax bill on median home

A median-priced home valued at $282,000 in Beaverhead County carries an annual tax bill of approximately $1,876. For owners with a mortgage, expected taxes run about $2,143 annually.

Consider a property tax appeal

Many Montana homeowners discover their assessments exceed market value and successfully appeal for reductions. If your home's assessed value seems high relative to recent sales in your area, a formal challenge could lower your annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Beaverhead County

via CostByCounty

Beaverhead renters pay slightly more than nation

At 16.5%, Beaverhead's rent-to-income ratio sits just above the national norm, meaning renters here dedicate a bit more of their paychecks to housing than the typical American household. The county's median rent of $800 is lower than many urban centers, but local incomes of $58,072 lag the national median of $74,755 by about 22%, creating the squeeze.

Affordability challenge in rural Montana

Beaverhead's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks as a mid-tier affordability challenge among Montana counties, slightly above the state average of 15.9%. The county mirrors statewide pressures: lower wages paired with housing costs that haven't declined proportionally.

Beaverhead rents competitive with rural peers

At $800/month, Beaverhead's median rent undercuts Carbon County ($882) and Cascade County ($902), placing it closer to Big Horn and Blaine counties. However, Beaverhead homeowners face steeper mortgage costs ($829/month) than Big Horn buyers ($537/month), reflecting higher median home values of $282,000 versus $148,200.

Housing eats nearly one-sixth of income

A renter earning Beaverhead's median household income of $58,072 spends roughly $800/month on housing—about 16.5% of gross income. Homeowners with a median monthly cost of $829 face a similar burden, leaving limited room in household budgets for other expenses.

Consider Beaverhead for balanced rural living

If you're weighing Montana relocation, Beaverhead offers competitive rental prices and a genuine sense of rural community. Compare its 16.5% rent-to-income ratio against pricier neighbors like Broadwater (18.4%) and Cascade (16.4%) to find your best fit.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Beaverhead County

via IncomeByCounty

Beaverhead trails the nation on income

Beaverhead County's median household income of $58,072 falls about 22% below the national median of $74,755. This places the county in the lower half of American counties, though many rural Montana counties face similar income pressures.

Below average among Montana counties

At $58,072, Beaverhead's median household income sits about 7% below Montana's state average of $62,295. The county ranks in the middle tier statewide, outperforming some rural neighbors but trailing more economically dynamic regions.

Beaverhead fits among rural peers

Beaverhead's $58,072 median income compares favorably to nearby Big Horn County ($56,680) and Carter County ($52,171), but lags behind Broadwater County ($63,636) and Carbon County ($71,017). Regional income variation reflects differences in job markets and industry mix across southwestern Montana.

Rent remains manageable for most

Beaverhead households spend 16.5% of income on rent, comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold. However, median home values of $282,000 represent about 4.9 years of median household income, requiring significant savings for homeownership.

Building savings in Beaverhead

With stable rents and moderate living costs, Beaverhead households have opportunities to prioritize retirement savings and home equity building. Even modest monthly investments compound significantly over time—start early and leverage employer matches when available.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Beaverhead County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety in Beaverhead County

Beaverhead County ranks as exceptionally safe with a safety score of 99.1 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 591.4 per 100K residents is less than a quarter of the national average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the State Average

The county outperforms the Montana state average safety score of 98.2. Local law enforcement maintains a high standard of safety compared to many of its peers across the state.

A Leader Among Neighbors

Beaverhead's crime rate of 591.4 is significantly lower than neighbors like Big Horn, which sees rates over 1,700. This makes it one of the more secure regions in southwest Montana.

Low Rates Across the Board

Property crimes account for 390.7 per 100K incidents, while violent crime sits at 200.7. Both figures remain well below national benchmarks of 2,015.7 and 369.8 respectively.

Keeping Beaverhead Secure

While rates are low, residents can maintain this safety by joining local neighborhood watch programs. Basic home security measures like outdoor lighting continue to be effective deterrents in rural communities.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Beaverhead County

via HealthByCounty

Beaverhead outlives the nation

At 79.1 years, Beaverhead County residents live 4.6 years longer than the U.S. average of 74.5 years. Only 15.6% report poor or fair health, below the national average of 18%, signaling strong population wellness.

Leading Montana in longevity

Beaverhead's life expectancy of 79.1 years tops Montana's state average of 76.3 years by nearly 3 years. The county ranks among the state's healthiest by this measure.

Outperforming surrounding counties

Beaverhead's 79.1-year life expectancy surpasses all measured neighbors, including Broadwater (80.3) and Carbon (80.4) as peers but ahead of Cascade (75.5) and Chouteau (75.9). Its 15.6% poor/fair health rate beats the regional average.

Strong provider access, minimal gaps

With 147 primary care providers and 202 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Beaverhead offers robust healthcare access well above state norms. The 11.9% uninsured rate matches Montana's average, leaving most residents covered.

Keep Beaverhead healthy—stay insured

Even with strong outcomes, healthcare remains essential: verify your coverage today at healthcare.gov or contact a local agent. Montana's uninsured rate remains a concern—don't let your family be part of it.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Beaverhead County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Network of Small-Town Classrooms

Beaverhead County supports 1,223 students across 12 public schools, including eight elementary and two high schools. The education infrastructure is managed by nine distinct school districts, ensuring localized control for the community.

Outperforming State and National Graduation Averages

The county boasts a 90.9% graduation rate, significantly exceeding both the state average of 83.7% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Despite a modest per-pupil expenditure of $9,306, the school score of 59.0 remains well above the Montana state average.

Dillon Leads the County Districts

The Dillon Elementary district is the largest in the county, serving 780 students across two schools. There are currently no charter schools in the county, with all students attending traditional public institutions.

Rural Roots and Close-Knit Campuses

With nine rural and three town-based schools, the average campus size is a comfortable 102 students. Parkview School serves as the county's largest hub with 523 students, while Lima High School offers an intimate setting for just 25 students.

Strong Schools for Your Future Home

High graduation rates and personal classroom attention make this county an attractive option for families. Consider exploring homes near these top-performing districts as you plan your next move.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Beaverhead County

via RiskByCounty

Beaverhead's risk sits above the national baseline

Beaverhead County scores 42.88 on the composite risk index, placing it in the Relatively Low category but well above the national average. This score reflects above-average earthquake and wildfire exposure compared to most U.S. counties, though flood and tornado risks remain modest by national standards.

A mid-range hazard profile for Montana

Among Montana's 56 counties, Beaverhead ranks in the middle of the risk distribution with a composite score of 42.88, compared to the state average of 33.31. The county faces notably higher earthquake risk (85.66) and wildfire risk (84.32) than most of its peers statewide.

More seismically active than nearby counties

Beaverhead's earthquake risk (85.66) significantly exceeds that of neighboring Broadwater (74.87) and Chouteau (27.07) counties, reflecting its proximity to Montana's seismic zones. Its wildfire risk (84.32) aligns closely with regional trends but remains higher than Blaine County's 69.85 rating.

Earthquakes and wildfires are your top threats

Beaverhead residents face the highest exposure to earthquakes (85.66) and wildfires (84.32), both well above state and national medians for rural counties. While flood risk (36.32) and tornado risk (6.81) are comparatively low, the combination of seismic and fire hazards demands targeted preparedness planning.

Prioritize earthquake and wildfire coverage

Standard homeowners policies exclude earthquake and wildfire damage, leaving Beaverhead residents exposed to your county's top two threats. Consider adding earthquake and wildfire riders to your policy and maintaining defensible space around your home to reduce fire vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Beaverhead County

via WeatherByCounty

Beaverhead's Alpine Chill Below National Median

With an average annual temperature of 38.9°F, Beaverhead County sits significantly below the national median. This high-elevation climate reflects its rugged mountain character and cooler atmosphere.

Colder Than the Montana Average

The county's 38.9°F annual average is nearly 5 degrees colder than the state average of 43.7°F. This makes it one of the cooler regions within the Treasure State.

A Dry High-Altitude Neighbor

Recording just 12.1 inches of annual precipitation, Beaverhead is drier than the state average of 15.4 inches. It receives less moisture than many of its eastern neighbors, defining its semi-arid mountain landscape.

Cool Summers and Snowy Winters

July averages a mild 61.6°F while winters drop to a 19.4°F average. The county sees 35.1 inches of snow annually and only 5 days where temperatures hit 90°F.

Prioritize Winter Gear and Home Insulation

Residents should invest in heavy winter apparel and ensure homes are well-insulated for the long 18.9°F Januarys. Summer cooling needs are minimal given the low frequency of extreme heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Beaverhead County

via SoilByCounty

Beaverhead's Undiscovered Soil Character

Digital surveys do not currently provide a specific taxonomic order or pH level for Beaverhead County. While the national median pH sits at 6.5, growers here typically encounter the more alkaline levels common across Montana's average of 7.43. Testing local plots remains the most reliable way to identify your specific soil profile.

A Local Blend of Soil Textures

Specific percentages for sand, silt, and clay are currently unmapped in this high-altitude region. Soil texture dictates how well the ground breathes and holds nutrients, making manual jar tests essential for local farmers. Understanding your texture helps you manage workability and drainage throughout the growing season.

Measuring Fertility Potential in the Highlands

Organic matter data is unavailable for Beaverhead, but the county operates within a state average of 2.54%. The lack of a specific available water capacity (AWC) means growers must carefully monitor irrigation. Aiming for the state benchmark of 0.165 in/in helps ensure crops have enough water during dry spells.

Managing Water in Mountain Soils

The dominant drainage class and hydrologic group for this area are not currently recorded in federal databases. Natural terrain variations in the county heavily influence how water moves across the landscape. Homeowners should observe runoff patterns personally before planning new building foundations or drainage systems.

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 5a

Beaverhead County falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, favoring plants that can survive chilly mountain winters. Cold-hardy greens and short-season vegetables perform best in this climate. Start your garden with frost-resistant varieties to make the most of the brisk growing window.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Beaverhead County

via LawnByCounty

A Challenging High-Altitude Climb for Lawns

Beaverhead County presents a tough environment with a lawn difficulty score of 27.9, well below the national median of 50.0. While the USDA Hardiness Zone 5a allows for several grass varieties, the low average temperature of 38.9°F significantly limits the growing window compared to state peers.

Low Heat and Sparse Rainfall

With only 12.1 inches of annual precipitation, lawns here receive less than half the water required for ideal growth. You only face about 5 extreme heat days per year, meaning your grass is more likely to struggle with the 1,035 growing degree days than with scorching summer sun.

Preparing Your High-Country Soil

Specific soil texture data for Beaverhead is limited, but the region typically requires significant organic matter to support turf. You should conduct a local soil test to determine if you need to adjust pH levels to match the 6.0-7.0 range preferred by most cool-season grasses.

Persistent Dry Spells Demand Care

The county spent all 53 weeks of the past year in some form of drought, with 99.6% of the area currently classified as abnormally dry. Focus on deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to maximize every drop and help roots reach deeper into the soil.

Selecting Hardy Grass for the Peaks

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescues are your best bets for Zone 5a, as they handle the cold winters well. Aim to seed in late summer when the soil is warm but the peak dry season is tapering off.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beaverhead County's county score?
Beaverhead County, Montana has a composite county score of 63 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Beaverhead County rank among counties in Montana?
Beaverhead County ranks #18 among all counties in Montana on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Beaverhead County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Beaverhead County is $1,876, with an effective tax rate of 0.67%. This earns Beaverhead County a tax score of 67/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Beaverhead County?
The median household income in Beaverhead County, Montana is $58,072 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Beaverhead County earns an income score of 32.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Beaverhead County, Montana a good place to live?
Beaverhead County scores 63/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Beaverhead County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Beaverhead County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.