countyscore
56.6
County Score
Safety 86.4Health 61.9Soil Quality 59.4

County Report Card

About Fergus County, Montana

Outperforming the national average

Fergus County earns a composite score of 56.6, placing it comfortably above the national median of 50.0. This score suggests a higher quality of life than many comparable rural counties nationwide.

Aligning with Montana's average

The county's score of 56.6 sits almost exactly at the Montana state average of 56.4. This indicates that Fergus County provides a quintessentially balanced Montana living experience.

High safety and health standards

Safety is a hallmark of this county, reflected in an impressive safety score of 86.4. Residents also enjoy a solid health score of 61.9 and a fair tax score of 49.5, supported by an effective tax rate of 0.843%.

Infrastructure and school needs

The county faces a critical challenge with a water score of only 1.5, suggesting significant infrastructure concerns. Additionally, the school score of 39.1 and income score of 38.1 indicate a need for educational and economic investment.

Ideal for safety-conscious residents

Fergus County is perfect for those who prioritize community safety and moderate living costs above all else. It suits individuals who value a secure, mid-sized community with median home values around $202,700.

Score breakdown

Tax49.5Cost57.3Safety86.4Health61.9Schools39.1Income38.1Risk54.9Water1.5Weather38.3
🏛49.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠57.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼38.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡86.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤61.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡54.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧1.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤38.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨59.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱36.5
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

Fergus County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Fergus County

via TaxByCounty

Fergus County taxes hover near national median

With an effective tax rate of 0.843%, Fergus County sits just slightly below the U.S. median of 0.84%, landing it near the 50th percentile nationally. The median annual tax of $1,709 is substantially lower than the national figure of $2,690, reflecting the county's lower median home value of $202,700.

Moderate rates within the Montana average

Fergus County's 0.843% effective tax rate runs slightly above Montana's state average of 0.767%, placing it in the lower-to-middle range among the state's 56 counties. The median property tax of $1,709 sits just below the statewide median of $1,802.

Fergus rates fall in the regional middle

Fergus County's 0.843% rate exceeds lower-tax neighbors like Fallon (0.573%) but trails higher-tax Custer (1.098%) and Dawson (1.173%) in central Montana. The county occupies a balanced position within its tax landscape.

Typical Fergus County annual property tax

A median-valued home of $202,700 generates an annual property tax of approximately $1,709 in Fergus County. Homeowners with mortgages typically see this rise to $1,756, while those with outright ownership pay around $1,636.

Appeal inflated assessments when needed

Property assessments in Fergus County, like all counties, can occasionally miss the mark and overvalue homes. Filing a formal appeal with the assessor is a straightforward process that costs nothing and can significantly reduce your annual tax bill if your home is overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Fergus County

via CostByCounty

Fergus: Rents Rising Faster Than Wages

Fergus County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% exceeds both the national and state averages, signaling housing strain despite modest absolute costs. Median household income of $59,731 trails the national median by $15,000, while rents of $868 monthly push affordability pressure higher than nearby counties. This pattern suggests rents are rising faster than local wage growth in Fergus.

Fergus Ranks Among Montana's Least Affordable

At 17.4%, Fergus County's rent-to-income ratio is the highest in this Montana sample, exceeding the state average of 15.9% and indicating real affordability challenges. Local median income of $59,731 is below state averages, compounding the strain from rents that run above many comparable counties. Fergus faces the dual pressure of low wages and rising rents.

Fergus Rents Outpace Similar County Wages

Fergus's $868 monthly rent is $280 cheaper than Custer ($918) but higher than Fallon ($772), yet its median income of $59,731 is lower than both neighbors. This unfavorable ratio creates the state's highest rent-to-income burden in this sample, suggesting Fergus renters face tighter budgets than peers in comparable eastern Montana counties. Wage and rent dynamics have diverged significantly here.

Fergus: Budget Squeezed by Rental Burden

Fergus renters earn a median of $59,731 annually ($4,978 monthly) but spend $868 on rent—17.4% of income, well above the 15% comfort threshold. Homeowners fare slightly better at $710 monthly (14.2% of income), suggesting ownership is more accessible than renting here. The rental market has grown increasingly strained relative to local wages.

Fergus: Renters Should Explore Alternatives

Fergus County's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio is the highest in central Montana, leaving renters with less discretionary income than neighbors like Fallon or Daniels. Prospective residents earning wages locally should strongly consider homeownership or look to nearby Fallon County ($772 rent) for better rental affordability. The county suits those with outside income sources more than those depending on Fergus employment.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Fergus County

via IncomeByCounty

Fergus falls behind national income

Fergus County's median household income of $59,731 lags the U.S. median of $74,755 by roughly $15,000. This reflects rural Montana's broader income challenges relative to national averages.

Below Montana's state average

Fergus's $59,731 median sits about $2,560 below the state average of $62,295, placing it among Montana's lower-income counties. The county reflects economic patterns typical of rural central Montana.

Fergus struggles among peers

Fergus trails neighboring Custer ($63,585), Fallon ($72,284), and Flathead ($71,327), ranking among the lowest in its region. Only Daniels ($58,000) and Deer Lodge ($49,533) earn less among nearby comparisons.

Housing costs bite at income

Fergus's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio signals moderate housing pressure on lower income—approaching the affordability stress zone. With a median home value of $202,700, households must budget carefully to balance housing and other needs.

Build wealth through intention

Fergus residents at $59,731 can build wealth by prioritizing employer retirement matches and automating even small monthly investments. Focus on increasing income through skill development or side opportunities while keeping housing costs in check.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Fergus County

via CrimeByCounty

Fergus County: A National Safety Leader

Fergus County features an elite safety score of 99.5 and a total crime rate of just 304.5 per 100,000. This represents a massive reduction in crime compared to the national rate of 2,385.5.

Top-Tier Safety in Big Sky Country

With a crime rate of 304.5, Fergus County is nearly four times safer than the average Montana county. Its 99.5 safety score makes it one of the premier locations for public safety in the state.

Setting the Standard for Neighbors

Fergus County's rate of 304.5 is far lower than nearby Custer County at 1,011.9. This makes Fergus one of the quietest and most secure jurisdictions in central Montana.

Property Crimes are Exceptionally Rare

Property crime in Fergus County is nearly non-existent at 43.5 per 100,000, while the violent crime rate is 261.0. This violent crime rate remains well below the national average of 369.8.

Preserving Your Safe Environment

With a safety score of 99.5, Fergus County is exceptionally secure. Simple community engagement and keeping an eye on your neighborhood are the most effective ways to maintain this high level of safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Fergus County

via HealthByCounty

Fergus exceeds national health average

At 76.7 years, Fergus County residents live 0.3 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years, a modest but meaningful advantage. Just 15.1% report poor or fair health, slightly below national levels and suggesting effective chronic disease management in the county.

Central Montana's health performer

Fergus County's life expectancy of 76.7 years runs 0.4 years above Montana's state average of 76.3 years, placing it in the upper tier of county health outcomes. The uninsured rate of 11.3% sits just below the state average of 11.9%, indicating solid coverage stability.

Strong primary and mental health resources

Fergus County provides 86 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 289 mental health providers per 100,000, both well above rural averages and supporting comprehensive care. This balanced provider supply enables residents to manage both physical and behavioral health needs locally.

Coverage and access align well

Fergus County's 11.3% uninsured rate is slightly better than the state average, meaning most residents can access the 86 primary care providers available per 100,000. This alignment between insurance and provider supply creates conditions for reliable, continuous health care.

Secure your health coverage

If you're uninsured in Fergus County, enrollment through Healthcare.gov or Montana's marketplace can connect you with affordable plans matching your health needs. With strong local providers and good community health outcomes, coverage is your gateway to the same care quality your neighbors enjoy.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Fergus County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Vast Network of Local Schools

Fergus County manages an extensive network of 24 public schools distributed among 14 different districts. The county serves 1,634 students with 11 elementary, seven middle, and six high schools. This decentralized structure reflects a commitment to keeping schools close to the many rural communities across the region.

Steady Progress Across Wide Districts

The county reports an 80.8% graduation rate, slightly trailing the Montana state average of 83.7%. With a per-pupil expenditure of $8,155 and a school score of 51.2, Fergus County maintains performance levels near state benchmarks. Educators manage these results despite the logistical challenges of running over a dozen independent districts.

Lewistown Elem Leads Fergus Enrollment

Lewistown Elementary is the county's largest district, serving 888 students across four primary schools. Other significant districts include Winifred K-12 with 154 students and Roy K-12 which serves a smaller student body. Fergus High School stands as the largest single institution with 356 students enrolled.

Rural Roots and Small Class Sizes

The county features 20 rural schools and four town-based facilities, emphasizing a deep connection to the Montana landscape. The average school size is just 68 students, ensuring that classrooms remain small and instructors know every student by name. From the 356 students at Fergus High to the tiniest rural outposts, the county offers a variety of intimate learning settings.

Educational Choice in Central Montana

Prospective residents can choose between the larger town schools in Lewistown or the many small-town districts like Winifred and Roy. School quality and small class sizes are significant draws for families moving to Fergus County. Explore homes in Lewistown to stay central to the county's largest educational and extracurricular hubs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Fergus County

via RiskByCounty

Fergus Risk Exceeds National Average

Fergus County's composite risk score of 45.10 surpasses the national average baseline, earning a "Relatively Low" rating. Your county faces substantial natural disaster exposure, particularly from wildfire.

Above-State-Average Risk Profile

At 45.10, Fergus ranks well above Montana's state average of 33.31, placing it in the upper-middle tier for risk. Your county faces notably elevated hazard concentration compared to most Montana communities.

Higher Risk Than Eastern Peers

Fergus County (45.10) significantly exceeds Daniels (1.81) and Fallon (5.41) to the east, approaching Custer County (42.14) to the south. Your central location and wildfire exposure drive this elevated risk profile.

Wildfire Dominates Fergus Threats

Wildfire at 80.41 is Fergus County's primary hazard, making it your critical concern. Flood risk (36.48) presents a secondary threat, while tornadoes (15.71) and earthquakes (25.89) pose lower but measurable dangers.

Prioritize Fire and Flood Insurance

Fergus County residents should ensure comprehensive fire insurance and flood coverage, especially in riparian zones. Given your 80.41 wildfire score, investing in defensible space and fire-resistant materials provides essential protection beyond insurance.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Fergus County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool, snowy central Montana

Fergus County maintains an annual average of 44.0°F, characteristic of the high-elevation central Montana plains. It receives a robust 57.9 inches of snowfall, making it significantly snowier than the national average.

Abundant precipitation for Montana

Fergus averages 16.9 inches of total precipitation, exceeding the state average of 15.4 inches. This extra moisture often falls as snow, with 57.9 inches recorded annually compared to the lighter totals in the east.

Wetter than eastern neighbors

Compared to Fallon County, Fergus receives about 2 inches more precipitation and 23 inches more snow annually. Its average temperature of 44.0°F is identical to Fallon, despite the difference in moisture.

Moderate summers, snowy winters

July stays comfortable with an average of 68.0°F and only 19 days of extreme heat. However, winter is significant, with a December-February average of 23.7°F and nearly five feet of total annual snow.

Focus on snow management

With 57.9 inches of snow, reliable four-wheel drive and snow-clearing tools are essential for residents. Moderate summer temperatures mean that natural ventilation often suffices for cooling during the 19 days of heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Fergus County

via SoilByCounty

Superior Soils in Central Montana

Fergus County boasts a pH of 7.17, which is remarkably close to the national median of 6.5 compared to other Montana counties. This near-neutrality makes it one of the most versatile counties in the state for diverse agriculture. It is significantly less alkaline than the state average of 7.43.

Clay-Rich and Nutrient Dense

The composition includes 32.4% sand, 35.6% silt, and a robust 28.4% clay. This high clay content acts as a reservoir for nutrients, though it can make the ground heavy to work when wet. The mix provides exceptional structural support for deep-rooted plants.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

At a staggering 5.98%, the organic matter in Fergus County is more than double both the national and state averages. This incredible fertility drives a high soil score of 59.4, well above the state average of 43.1. The soil efficiently manages moisture with an available water capacity of 0.165 in/in.

High-Capacity Nutrient Storage

While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the high clay and organic content suggest a soil that holds water and nutrients tightly. This is a dream for high-yield farming but requires careful management to avoid compaction. Proper drainage will be key for any residential garden projects.

A Gardener’s Paradise in Zone 4b

Zone 4b gardeners in Fergus County have a massive advantage with such rich organic soil. This land is perfect for nutrient-hungry vegetables like heavy-feeding squash or heirloom tomatoes. Take advantage of this natural fertility and start your most ambitious garden yet.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Fergus County

via LawnByCounty

Central Montana Lawn Logistics

Fergus County sits at a 36.5 lawn difficulty score, outperforming the state average. In Hardiness Zone 4b, gardeners must balance slightly better rainfall against significant drought volatility in the heart of Montana.

Manageable Heat, Better Rain

Fergus receives 16.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the state average of 15.4. With only 19 extreme heat days, the 1,869 growing degree days are generally mild, making it easier to keep cool-season grasses from scorching.

Rich Clay Soil Management

The soil contains 28.4% clay, the highest in this group, which holds moisture well but can easily compact. A pH of 7.17 is very close to the ideal range, meaning nutrients are more accessible here than in more alkaline counties.

Severe Drought Warnings

Despite 100% of the county being dry, 64.9% of the area is currently in severe drought (D2+). This high level of water stress requires strict adherence to local watering restrictions to maintain lawn health.

Targeting the May Window

The safe window for seeding starts after the May 20 frost date. Your lawn has until September 23 to establish itself before the freezing temperatures of fall arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fergus County's county score?
Fergus County, Montana has a composite county score of 56.6 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 Fergus County rank among counties in Montana?
Fergus County ranks #32 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 Fergus County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Fergus County is $1,709, with an effective tax rate of 0.84%. This earns Fergus County a tax score of 49.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Fergus County?
The median household income in Fergus County, Montana is $59,731 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Fergus County earns an income score of 38.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Fergus County, Montana a good place to live?
Fergus County scores 56.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Fergus 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 Fergus 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.