countyscore
48.9
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 82.4Cost of Living 71.4

County Report Card

About Deer Lodge County, Montana

Deer Lodge matches national standards

With a composite score of 48.9, Deer Lodge County performs nearly at the national median of 50.0. It offers a competitive lifestyle compared to many other rural counties across the United States.

Closing in on state averages

The county score of 48.9 is slightly below the Montana state average of 56.4. While it trails the state leaders, its strong performance in environmental risk helps it maintain a solid regional standing.

Superior water and risk resilience

Deer Lodge shines in natural security with a risk score of 82.4 and a high water score of 86.0. Housing also remains a strong point, with a cost score of 71.4 and a median gross rent of only $661.

Economic and safety hurdles

Low local earnings are a concern, with an income score of 13.5 and a median household income of $49,533. The safety score of 23.3 is also significantly lower than state and national averages, impacting the overall score.

Perfect for low-cost living

This county is a great fit for individuals seeking low housing costs and high environmental safety. It appeals to those who prioritize affordability and natural resource quality over high-income career paths.

Score breakdown

Tax52.1Cost71.4Safety23.3Health51.6Schools43.3Income13.5Risk82.4Water86Weather45.4
🏛52.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠71.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼13.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡23.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤51.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓43.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡82.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱29.3
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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Nearby counties

Silver Bow County
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36.4
Granite County
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Jefferson County
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Ravalli County
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Powell County
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Madison County
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Beaverhead County
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Broadwater County
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Deep Dives

Deer Lodge County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Deer Lodge County

via TaxByCounty

Deer Lodge taxes below the nation's average

With an effective tax rate of 0.814%, Deer Lodge County sits slightly below the U.S. median of 0.84%, placing it near the 50th percentile nationally. The median annual tax of $1,706 is notably lower than the national median of $2,690, reflecting the county's more modest home valuations.

Below-average rates within Montana

Deer Lodge County's 0.814% effective tax rate runs modestly above Montana's state average of 0.767%, making it a relatively mild-tax county within the state's 56 counties. The median property tax of $1,706 falls short of the statewide median of $1,802, offering some relief to property owners.

Deer Lodge sits in the middle regionally

Deer Lodge's 0.814% rate falls between Custer (1.098%) to the east and the lower-tax western counties, positioning it as moderate within its region. The county's rate exceeds Fallon (0.573%) and Fergus (0.843%) in comparable range.

What Deer Lodge property taxes typically cost

A median-valued home of $209,700 results in an annual property tax of approximately $1,706 in Deer Lodge County. Homeowners with mortgages face a total of roughly $1,942 when mortgage-related assessments are included.

Review your assessment for accuracy

Inaccurate property assessments affect homeowners across all tax rates, and Deer Lodge County is no exception. Contact your county assessor to verify your home's assessed value matches the current market, potentially reducing your annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Deer Lodge County

via CostByCounty

Deer Lodge: Low Income, Moderate Housing Burden

Deer Lodge County faces a challenging affordability scenario: rents consume 16% of income while median household income is just $49,533—the lowest in this Montana sample. Monthly rent of $661 is relatively modest, but against the county's thin wages, it creates meaningful budget strain for renters. This county illustrates how rural economic conditions can pressure even modest housing costs.

Deer Lodge Slightly Above Montana Average

At 16%, Deer Lodge's rent-to-income ratio nudges above Montana's 15.9% state average, reflecting both tight local wages and housing costs that haven't declined proportionally. Median income of $49,533 is substantially below the state's economic profile, indicating structural economic challenges beyond housing supply. Deer Lodge represents struggling rural Montana, where affordability issues stem from income weakness rather than housing inflation.

Deer Lodge: Lowest Income in the Region

Deer Lodge's median household income of $49,533 trails every other county in this sample, falling short of Daniels County ($58,000) by nearly $8,500 annually. Rent here ($661) is reasonable in absolute terms but burdensome relative to local earnings, revealing an income gap problem rather than a housing cost problem. The county's historical mining economy has not smoothly transitioned to modern employment.

Deer Lodge's Wage-Housing Mismatch

Renters earning a median of $49,533 annually ($4,128 monthly) spend $661 on rent—16% of income, edging above comfort thresholds. Homeowners fare somewhat better at $827 monthly, though that still consumes nearly 20% of median income, an unsustainable ratio for most families. The county's real challenge is wage stagnation, not housing cost explosion.

Deer Lodge: Consider Job Market First

Deer Lodge offers the lowest rents in this sample and modest home values ($209,700), but the county's weak median income signals limited job opportunities for relocating workers. Retirees or those with remote income may find Deer Lodge affordable, but job seekers should verify employment prospects before committing. The county's economic transition remains incomplete, affecting long-term affordability stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Deer Lodge County

via IncomeByCounty

Deer Lodge faces income headwinds

Deer Lodge County's median household income of $49,533 ranks nearly $25,000 below the U.S. median of $74,755. This places it among Montana's most economically challenged counties.

Montana's lowest-earning county

Deer Lodge's $49,533 median sits nearly $13,000 below the state average of $62,295, making it among the lowest-income counties statewide. The county's economy struggles with legacy industries and limited diversification.

Significantly behind regional peers

Deer Lodge trails all nearby comparison counties, falling $14,000+ behind Fallon ($72,284) and well behind Fergus ($59,731). The income gap signals deeper structural economic challenges in the county.

Housing pressures mount despite low prices

Though Deer Lodge's median home value is $209,700, the 16% rent-to-income ratio compresses household budgets on lower absolute income. Families here feel housing pressure more acutely than their stronger-earning neighbors.

Small steps toward financial stability

At $49,533, building wealth requires discipline and patience, but it's still achievable through employer benefits and micro-investing. Focus on debt reduction, emergency savings, and exploring workforce development opportunities to raise earning potential.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Deer Lodge County

via CrimeByCounty

Deer Lodge Below National Averages

Deer Lodge County reports a total crime rate of 1,950.2 per 100,000, which remains safer than the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.9 despite being more active than its rural neighbors.

Higher Activity Than State Averages

The county's total crime rate of 1,950.2 is notably higher than the Montana state average of 1,112.5. This results in a safety score of 96.9, which is slightly below the state's average score of 98.2.

Comparing Regional Safety Hubs

Deer Lodge County is more active than eastern counties like Dawson, yet it remains safer than Flathead County's 2,119.8 rate. Residents should view these numbers with caution as they come from a single reporting agency.

Property Crimes Drive Local Statistics

Property crime is the primary concern here, with a rate of 1,695.8 per 100,000 residents. Conversely, the violent crime rate of 254.4 is significantly lower than the national benchmark of 369.8.

Focus on Property Protection

With property crime representing the vast majority of local incidents, securing valuables is essential. Consider joining or starting a neighborhood watch to help lower the 1,695.8 property crime rate.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Deer Lodge County

via HealthByCounty

Deer Lodge faces health headwinds

At 75.2 years, Deer Lodge County's life expectancy ranks among the nation's lowest, running 1.2 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. With 16.6% of residents in poor or fair health, the county carries above-average chronic disease burden and preventable mortality.

State's shortest life expectancy

Deer Lodge County ranks at the bottom of Montana's health outcomes, with life expectancy of 75.2 years—a full 1.1 years below the state average of 76.3 years. The county's 11.4% uninsured rate sits just below the state average, offering modest insurance protection.

Strong primary care, excellent mental health

Deer Lodge County punches above its weight in provider supply, offering 84 primary care providers and 589 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among the highest densities in Montana. Despite robust health infrastructure, life expectancy remains the state's lowest, suggesting deep upstream health challenges.

Good access doesn't guarantee good health

Deer Lodge County residents enjoy excellent provider access with 84 primary care doctors per 100,000—yet the county suffers the state's shortest life expectancy at 75.2 years. This paradox reflects broader socioeconomic factors like poverty, substance abuse, and limited health literacy that providers alone cannot solve.

Get covered and get better

If you're uninsured in Deer Lodge County, the 11.4% who lack coverage face higher risk for preventable illness and death. Healthcare.gov and local navigators can connect you with affordable plans—a critical first step toward the care that can improve your health outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Deer Lodge County

via SchoolsByCounty

Centralized Education in Anaconda

Deer Lodge County operates four public schools within two districts, serving a total student population of 1,021. The infrastructure includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, providing a straightforward academic path. All local schools are traditional public institutions, as no charter schools currently exist in the county.

Steady Achievement Near State Averages

The county maintains an 82.0% graduation rate, sitting just below the state average of 83.7% and the national mark of 87.0%. With an average per-pupil expenditure of $8,538, the county invests less than the national average of $13,000 but achieves a respectable school score of 52.6. These results show a resilient school system that remains competitive within the Montana landscape.

Anaconda Districts Drive Local Schools

The Anaconda Elementary district is the primary provider of education, managing three schools and 740 students. Anaconda Senior High School operates as its own district, serving 281 students in grades nine through 12. Together, these two districts manage the entirety of the public education pipeline for the county.

A Concentrated Town School Culture

All four schools in Deer Lodge County are located in town settings, providing a consistent community feel for every student. Average school size is 255 students, making these campuses larger than many of Montana's rural counterparts. Fred Moodry Intermediate is the largest school with 284 students, while Anaconda Junior High is the smallest with 176.

Find Your Home Near Anaconda Schools

For families moving to the area, living in Anaconda puts you within minutes of all four county schools. The centralized town layout makes school commutes simple and integrates education deeply into the local community. Researching the steady performance of Anaconda High can give prospective buyers confidence in the local educational outlook.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Deer Lodge County

via RiskByCounty

Deer Lodge: Low Risk, High Complexity

With a composite score of 17.59, Deer Lodge County ranks as "Very Low" risk nationally, yet this masks significant earthquake exposure at 49.97. Your relatively safe overall profile hides concentrated seismic and wildfire threats worth understanding.

Among Montana's Safer Counties

Deer Lodge's score of 17.59 places it well below the state average of 33.31, ranking it among Montana's safer jurisdictions. However, earthquake risk (49.97) elevates it above many equally-rated peers.

Moderate Risk in Mountain Region

Deer Lodge County (17.59) sits safely below Flathead (86.45) and Gallatin (80.98), though its earthquake score of 49.97 exceeds most regional neighbors. Your location in southwestern Montana's mining country contributes to seismic sensitivity.

Earthquakes and Wildfire Concentrate Risk

Earthquake risk dominates Deer Lodge at 49.97, while wildfire (73.60) poses your second major threat. Floods (10.53) and tornadoes (5.53) represent minimal exposure.

Don't Overlook Earthquake Coverage

Deer Lodge homeowners should ensure earthquake insurance is part of their risk management plan, given your 49.97 seismic score. Wildfire insurance and defensible space maintenance are equally critical for property protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Deer Lodge County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool mountain air and heavy snow

Deer Lodge County averages 43.8°F annually, reflecting its high-altitude mountain environment. It is a snowy destination, receiving 75.1 inches of snowfall, which is significantly higher than the national median.

Typical Montana mountain weather

The county's 43.8°F average aligns almost perfectly with the Montana state average of 43.7°F. However, its 75.1 inches of snow more than doubles the totals seen in the eastern plains counties.

Snowier than the eastern plains

Compared to Fallon County’s 34.2 inches of snow, Deer Lodge is a winter wonderland with 75.1 inches. Its average temperature is nearly identical to Fergus County, but its mountainous terrain creates more dramatic local variations.

Mild summers and steady winters

Summer is brief and cool, with only 10 days reaching 90°F and a July average of 65.7°F. Winters are surprisingly stable, with a December through February average of 26.2°F, which is milder than many eastern Montana counties.

Gear up for snow

Residents should invest in high-quality snow removal equipment and winter tires to manage the 75.1 inches of annual snowfall. Air conditioning is rarely a necessity given that only 10 days a year reach extreme heat levels.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Deer Lodge County

via SoilByCounty

High Altitude Soil Characteristics

Specific pH and taxonomic data for Deer Lodge County are not presently cataloged in the primary dataset. In this mountainous region, soil chemistry can vary wildly between valley floors and timbered slopes. Soil tests are vital for anyone looking to establish a garden or pasture.

Texture Varies by Elevation

Data for sand, silt, and clay percentages is currently unavailable for this county. The complex topography likely creates a mosaic of rocky, well-draining soils and heavier valley sediments. Understanding your specific microclimate is just as important as knowing the soil texture here.

Growing in the Rockies

Information on organic matter and available water capacity is not currently listed. Given the state average soil score of 43.1, local growers often find success by focusing on native soil amendments. Adding well-rotted manure or compost can significantly improve unknown soil productivity.

Hydrology in a Mountain Landscape

Drainage classes for this county remain unrecorded in the current survey. Because of the rugged terrain, water often moves quickly down slopes, making erosion control a primary concern. Flat valley areas may experience slower drainage depending on the local clay content.

Resilient Gardening in Zone 5a

Deer Lodge County enjoys a slightly milder USDA Hardiness Zone of 5a compared to its neighbors. This allows for a wider range of perennials and even some hardier fruit trees. Start a garden with confidence by choosing varieties that thrive in cool mountain nights.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Deer Lodge County

via LawnByCounty

High Elevation Challenges in Deer Lodge

Deer Lodge County presents a difficult landscape with a lawn score of 29.3, trailing both the state and national averages. Despite being in Zone 5a, the short summers and persistent dry conditions make lawn care a labor-intensive hobby.

Cool Summers and Limited Rain

With only 10 extreme heat days, heat stress is low, but the 14.9 inches of rain is still insufficient for healthy grass. The low 1,559 growing degree days mean turf grows slowly and takes longer to recover from foot traffic or disease.

Foundation for Alpine Growth

Detailed soil metrics are unavailable for this county, but mountain valley soils often require organic matter to improve water retention. Local gardeners typically add compost to combat the rocky or sandy textures common in the region.

Nearly a Year of Drought

Deer Lodge has suffered through 49 weeks of drought in the last year, making water conservation a top priority. Current data shows 83.4% of the county is abnormally dry, necessitating very efficient irrigation strategies.

A Very Late Spring Start

Wait until after June 1 to seed, as late frosts can easily kill young sprouts. You must act fast to establish roots before the first fall frost returns as early as September 14.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Deer Lodge County's county score?
Deer Lodge County, Montana has a composite county score of 48.9 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 Deer Lodge County rank among counties in Montana?
Deer Lodge County ranks #42 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 Deer Lodge County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Deer Lodge County is $1,706, with an effective tax rate of 0.81%. This earns Deer Lodge County a tax score of 52.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Deer Lodge County?
The median household income in Deer Lodge County, Montana is $49,533 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Deer Lodge County earns an income score of 13.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Deer Lodge County, Montana a good place to live?
Deer Lodge County scores 48.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #42 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Deer Lodge 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 Deer Lodge County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.