57.4
County Score
Disaster Risk 90.6Cost of Living 80.4Property Tax 73.4

County Report Card

About Granite County, Montana

Solid Performance Above National Benchmarks

Granite County earns a composite score of 57.4, outperforming the national median of 50.0. It provides a stable environment that stacks up well against rural counties across the country.

Aligned with Montana Averages

With a score of 57.4, Granite County sits just above the Montana state average of 56.4. It offers a quintessential Montana experience that balances cost and community safety.

Resilient and Affordable Living

Low natural disaster risk and affordable housing are highlights, with scores of 90.6 and 80.4 respectively. The 0.607% effective tax rate is another strong draw for budget-conscious residents.

Water Quality and Economic Gaps

Water quality presents a significant challenge with a score of only 1.9. Economic mobility is also limited, as shown by an income score of 24.4 and a median household income of $54,646.

Ideal for the Self-Sufficient

Granite County is best for those who appreciate mountain living and are prepared to handle localized water infrastructure issues. It suits retirees or those with portable careers who prioritize a low-tax, low-risk environment.

Score breakdown

Tax73.4Cost80.4Safety43.4Health58.9Schools44.5Income24.4Risk90.6Water1.9Weather39.5
🏛73.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠80.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼24.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡43.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
58.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓44.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
90.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧1.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤39.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱24.5
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

Granite County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Granite County

via TaxByCounty

Granite's tax rate near national median

Granite County's effective rate of 0.607% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.84%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. The median tax bill of $2,061 mirrors national patterns, though Granite homes are valued higher at $339,500 versus the national median of $281,900.

Below Montana's average across the board

At 0.607% effective rate, Granite County ranks in the lower half of Montana's 56 counties, paying less than the state average of 0.767%. The $2,061 median tax reflects higher-value properties typical of this mountainous region.

Mid-range among southwest Montana peers

Granite's 0.607% rate sits between Jefferson County's 0.557% and Lake County's 0.660%, offering moderate relief in southwest Montana. Property values here are notably higher, resulting in mid-range absolute tax bills despite favorable rates.

About $2,061 yearly on median home

A median Granite County home valued at $339,500 results in annual property taxes of $2,061, or roughly $172 per month. Mortgage-holders pay an additional $75 annually in escrow taxes.

Challenge assessments on higher-value homes

Properties valued above $300,000 can accumulate significant overassessment costs quickly—a 5% inflated valuation costs $1,000+ annually. Granite County homeowners should compare their assessments to recent comparable sales and appeal if values don't align.

Cost of Living in Granite County

via CostByCounty

High home values, tight housing ratios

Granite County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% exceeds the national standard, driven by a median household income of $54,646 that lags the nation by $20,109. The median home value of $339,500 signals real estate appreciation—but those gains don't match local wages.

Pricey homes in a tight market

Granite's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Montana's worst, and its $339,500 median home value is the state's second-highest despite below-average incomes. This mismatch reflects outside investment and lifestyle migration reshaping rural Montana.

Expensive compared to peers

Granite's $734 rent exceeds Judith Basin's $502 and Garfield's $802 sits nearly identical, but Granite's $339,500 home values tower over neighbors—Judith Basin sits at $214,200 and Garfield at $178,300. Owners here pay $608 monthly, moderate but on pricier land.

Real estate booming, local wallets stressed

Monthly rent of $734 and owner costs of $608 consume 16.1% of a median income of just $54,646, leaving residents stretched despite being homeowners in a rising market. The $339,500 median home value reflects outside wealth flowing in, not local prosperity.

Beautiful but increasingly unaffordable

Granite County's soaring home values and tight affordability ratios make it challenging for locals earning typical county wages. Relocate here only if you're buying as an investment or bring significant outside income.

Income & Jobs in Granite County

via IncomeByCounty

Granite lags behind national income levels

Granite County's median household income of $54,646 falls $20,109 below the national median of $74,755. The county earns roughly 73% of the national average, reflecting broader rural income challenges.

Below Montana's state average earnings

Granite County's $54,646 median household income trails Montana's $62,295 state average by about $7,650. However, its per capita income of $36,922 exceeds the state mean of $35,700, suggesting wealth is distributed among fewer, higher-earning individuals.

Lower household income, higher individual wealth

Granite County's median household income ranks below most neighbors, but its per capita income of $36,922 places it among the highest in this group. This paradox suggests the county has a smaller number of wealthier residents alongside lower-earning households.

High home values strain budget affordability

Granite's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio appears manageable, but the median home value of $339,500 tells a different story—it represents 6.2 years of median household income. This exceptional gap signals that homeownership here requires external wealth or significant financial sacrifice.

Focus on income growth strategies

Granite County residents face an unusual challenge: modest median household income paired with exceptionally high property values. Building wealth here requires prioritizing career advancement and entrepreneurial ventures to close the gap between earnings and local cost of living.

Safety in Granite County

via CrimeByCounty

Granite County's National Standing

Granite County holds a safety score of 98.0. While its total crime rate of 1,276.8 per 100K is roughly half the national average, it marks a higher local frequency than some neighbors.

Just Below State Average

The county's safety score of 98.0 falls slightly under the Montana average of 98.2. Its total crime rate of 1,276.8 is also a bit higher than the state average of 1,112.5.

Regional Crime Comparisons

Granite's crime rate is higher than Jefferson County's 806.6 per 100K. However, it remains much safer than Lake County, where the crime rate reaches 2,640.5.

Breakdown of Local Incidents

Property crime accounts for 1,128.3 incidents per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 148.5. Property-related issues are the primary concern for residents according to 2022 figures.

Proactive Home Defense

With property crime as the main local threat, invest in quality locks and outdoor lighting. Staying aware of your surroundings helps Granite County stay a safe place to live.

Health in Granite County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy exceeds state average

At 80.0 years, Granite County residents live longer than the Montana state average of 76.3 years and well above the national average of 78.9 years. Just 17.1% report poor or fair health, tracking well below the national average of 21%.

Among Montana's healthiest counties

Granite County's 80-year life expectancy ranks second-best in this eight-county sample, and its 17.1% poor/fair health rate is among the lowest. The 14.1% uninsured rate is slightly above the state average, a minor gap in otherwise strong health outcomes.

Longevity rival to top performers

Only Judith Basin County (82.0 years) edges out Granite's 80-year life expectancy, and both counties significantly exceed Glacier County's 66.9 years. However, Granite has the sparsest primary care infrastructure—just 30 providers per 100,000 residents, the lowest in the region.

Provider scarcity despite health gains

Granite County's residents enjoy excellent health outcomes and live longer, yet only 30 primary care providers per 100,000 residents serve them—far below the regional average. Mental health support at 56 per 100,000 is also limited, suggesting residents may travel for specialized care.

Insurance critical with sparse providers

With limited primary care and mental health providers in Granite County, having robust insurance becomes even more important for accessing care. Visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to ensure coverage, and ask providers about telehealth options that can bridge geographic gaps.

Schools in Granite County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Education in Granite County

Granite County operates seven public schools that serve a total of 386 students across four districts. The system includes three elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools.

Spending Above State Average

The county has a 75.0% graduation rate, which is currently lower than the state's 83.7% average. Investment remains competitive, with per-pupil spending at $9,716, outpacing the Montana state average of $9,334.

Philipsburg and Drummond Districts

Philipsburg K-12 Schools is the largest district, serving 181 students across its three schools. There are no charter schools in Granite County, with 100% of enrollment remaining in traditional public districts.

Exclusively Rural Campus Life

All seven schools are in rural settings, with an average school size of 55 students. Philipsburg School is the largest with 94 students, while Drummond 7-8 serves as a small middle school environment for 27 students.

Relocating to Philipsburg or Drummond

For families looking for a mountain town lifestyle with small schools, Philipsburg and Drummond are the primary choices. The high per-pupil investment and rural charm make these communities attractive options for home buyers.

Disaster Risk in Granite County

via RiskByCounty

Granite County stays well below average

Granite County's composite risk score of 9.38 is far below the national average and places it in the very low risk category. Your county experiences minimal natural disaster exposure compared to most American counties.

Among Montana's safer counties

At 9.38, Granite County ranks well below Montana's state average of 33.31. Your county is one of the better-protected areas in the state for overall natural disaster risk.

Safer than Glacier and Jefferson

Granite's risk score of 9.38 is lower than nearby Glacier (51.49) and Jefferson (21.56), making it one of the safest in the region. You have greater overall resilience than most neighboring counties.

Wildfire is your primary hazard

Wildfire risk (88.64) towers above all other hazards in Granite County, reflecting the challenging fire season in Montana's forested areas. Earthquake risk (37.69) is secondary, while flood (11.13) and tornado (2.74) risks remain low.

Prioritize wildfire insurance protection

Ensure your homeowner's policy includes wildfire coverage and maintain defensible space around your home. Given the steep wildfire risk, consider additional discussion with your agent about coverage limits and deductibles.

Weather & Climate in Granite County

via WeatherByCounty

A cool and dry mountain climate

Granite County records an annual average temperature of 42.5°F, staying well below the national average. The 14.3 inches of annual precipitation reflect a dry environment common to the western interior.

Just below the Montana state average

Granite County is slightly cooler than the state average of 43.7°F, coming in at 42.5°F. This reflects its position within the higher elevations of western Montana.

Comparable to Jefferson and Lake counties

The county's 42.5°F average is nearly identical to Jefferson County's 42.6°F. However, it is significantly cooler than Lake County, which enjoys a warmer 45.9°F average.

Balanced seasons with moderate snowfall

Winters are cold but manageable with a 24.2°F January average and 30.5 inches of snow. Summers are pleasant and mild, with only 15 days exceeding 90°F and a July average of 63.7°F.

Prioritize winter gear over summer cooling

With only 15 extreme heat days, high-end cooling is less critical than in other parts of the state. Residents should focus on winterizing homes for the 30 inches of snow and sub-freezing winter averages.

Soil Quality in Granite County

via SoilByCounty

Forest and Rock Influence the Soil

Granite County lacks specific data for average pH and taxonomic classification in current regional records. Given the mountainous terrain, pH levels can vary significantly from the state's typical 7.43 alkaline baseline.

Diverse Textures in Mountain Valleys

Specific sand, silt, and clay data are currently unavailable for this region. The county's name implies stony textures that may offer excellent drainage but require effort to prepare for traditional gardening.

Fertility Varies by Valley Floor

Local organic matter and water capacity data are currently not recorded against the state's average of 2.54%. Gardeners in the valleys often find pocketed areas of high fertility, while higher elevations may need more amendments.

Natural Drainage and Alpine Runoff

No dominant hydrologic group is listed for this county in the existing survey. Property owners should assess their specific slope and soil depth to understand how water moves through the rugged landscape.

Mild Summers in Zone 5b

A warmer 5b hardiness zone makes Granite County suitable for a broader variety of crops, including certain fruit trees and longer-season vegetables. Start your garden today and enjoy the slightly longer growing window offered by this sheltered region.

Lawn Care in Granite County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in Granite County

Granite County is one of the toughest spots for lawns, scoring a low 24.5 on the difficulty scale. This Zone 5b county is significantly more challenging than the state average and is less than half as easy as the national median.

Cool Summers and Low Moisture

With only 15 days of extreme heat, summer stress is manageable, but 14.3 inches of annual rainfall is insufficient for most turf. The lower growing degree day count of 1324 means grass recovers slowly from damage or heavy traffic.

Laying the Soil Groundwork

Specific soil survey data is unavailable for Granite County, requiring residents to be proactive with local testing. Identifying your drainage class is particularly important here to ensure your irrigation doesn't lead to runoff or pooling.

Combatting Chronic Dryness

The county suffered through 43 weeks of drought in the past year, and over half the area is currently abnormally dry. Installing smart irrigation controllers can help navigate these dry spells while meeting the high moisture needs of Zone 5b turf.

Hardy Choices for Mountain Lawns

Select resilient cool-season blends that can handle the high-elevation climate of Granite County. Because frost dates can vary wildly in mountain terrain, consult local neighbors or extensions to find the safest window for spring seeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Granite County's county score?
Granite County, Montana has a composite county score of 57.4 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 Granite County rank among counties in Montana?
Granite County ranks #30 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 Granite County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Granite County is $2,061, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Granite County a tax score of 73.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Granite County?
The median household income in Granite County, Montana is $54,646 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Granite County earns an income score of 24.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Granite County, Montana a good place to live?
Granite County scores 57.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #30 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Granite 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 Granite County with other counties side by side.