countyscore
77.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 94.5Safety 91.5Cost of Living 91.3

County Report Card

About Judith Basin County, Montana

Elite Performance in Judith Basin

With an exceptional composite score of 77.5, Judith Basin County far exceeds the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the highest-rated counties for livability in the western United States.

A Montana Leader in Quality

Judith Basin dominates the state rankings with a 77.5 score, vastly outperforming the Montana average of 56.4. It offers a premier balance of affordability, safety, and community health.

Unrivaled Safety and Affordability

The county excels with a safety score of 91.5 and a cost score of 91.3, featuring a median rent of just $502. Its 0.453% tax rate is among the most attractive for property owners anywhere.

Limited Economic Mobility

While the county is highly livable, the income score of 26.1 indicates a lack of high-paying local jobs. The median household income stands at $55,417, which may require residents to look elsewhere for career growth.

A Top Choice for Retirees

This county is a dream for those on fixed incomes or with remote jobs who want maximum safety and minimal costs. Judith Basin provides a high-quality, peaceful life that is hard to match for the price.

Score breakdown

Tax90.3Cost91.3Safety91.5Health72.4Schools50.3Income26.1Risk94.5Water86Weather44.4
🏛90.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠91.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼26.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡91.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤72.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡94.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤44.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30.3
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

Wheatland County
Montana
63.2
Fergus County
Montana
56.6
Meagher County
Montana
65.5
Cascade County
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Chouteau County
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Golden Valley County
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Broadwater County
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Sweet Grass County
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Deep Dives

Judith Basin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Judith Basin County

via TaxByCounty

Judith Basin: Montana's tax bargain leader

Judith Basin County's effective rate of 0.453% ranks among the absolute lowest in the nation, nearly half the national median of 0.84%. The median tax of just $971 offers exceptional affordability even as property values climb toward $214,200.

Lowest tax rate in Montana

Judith Basin's 0.453% effective rate is the best deal in all 56 Montana counties, undercutting the state average of 0.767% by 41%. Homeowners save roughly $831 annually compared to typical Montanans on median-value properties.

Unmatched tax relief in central Montana

Judith Basin's 0.453% rate beats every surrounding county, including Golden Valley (0.509%), Garfield (0.656%), and Granite (0.607%). It stands alone as the region's premier tax destination.

About $971 yearly on median home

A median Judith Basin home valued at $214,200 results in annual property taxes of just $971, or roughly $81 per month. Homeowners with mortgages pay an additional $100 annually in escrow.

Verify your assessment even at low rates

Assessment errors affect all counties equally—even Judith Basin's bargain rates don't protect against overvaluation. Review your assessment notice and consider appealing if the valuation exceeds recent arm's-length sales in your area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Judith Basin County

via CostByCounty

The affordability champion of the group

Judith Basin County's rent-to-income ratio of 10.9% is the lowest among all eight counties and dramatically outperforms the national average, despite median household income of $55,417 that trails the nation by $19,338. At just $502 monthly rent, Judith Basin offers extraordinary housing accessibility.

Best rent value in rural Montana

Judith Basin's 10.9% rent-to-income ratio and $502 median rent are exceptional even by Montana standards, far outpacing the state average of 15.9% and $825. This small county packs Montana's most affordable housing market.

Unbeaten on price, everywhere else

Judith Basin's $502 rent is $251 cheaper than Garfield's $802 and $232 cheaper than Glacier's $553—the lowest in the entire group. Owner costs of $598 are similarly rock-bottom, making Judith Basin a genuine outlier for affordability.

Housing barely touches the budget

Renters spend just $502 monthly and owners $598 on a median income of $55,417, consuming only 10.9% of income—leaving substantial room for other needs. Judith Basin is where housing expenses stop being a struggle.

Montana's hidden affordability gem

Judith Basin County is the rare rural Montana county where housing costs won't dominate your budget, even on modest income. If you're relocating to trade city costs for rural peace, Judith Basin delivers unmatched affordability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Judith Basin County

via IncomeByCounty

Judith Basin trails the national income pace

Judith Basin County's median household income of $55,417 falls $19,338 below the national median of $74,755. The county earns roughly 74% of what the average U.S. household brings in.

Below-average earnings for Montana

Judith Basin's $55,417 median household income sits $6,878 below Montana's $62,295 state average, ranking it among the lower-earning counties in this survey. However, its per capita income of $38,715 is notably strong, suggesting concentrated wealth among working adults.

Middle income with strong per-capita earnings

Judith Basin's $55,417 median household income ranks below Garfield County ($61,750) but above Glacier County ($45,129) and Hill County ($55,313). Its per capita income of $38,715 ranks second-highest in the group, indicating well-compensated residents.

Exceptional affordability supports saving

Judith Basin's 10.9% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in this entire group, offering remarkable housing affordability. This advantage—nearly half the national threshold—creates substantial opportunity to redirect income toward savings and investment.

Leverage exceptional affordability for growth

Judith Basin residents enjoy the best rent-to-income ratio in this survey, freeing up significant income for wealth-building activities. With such favorable housing economics, households should aggressively fund retirement accounts, build investment portfolios, and create long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Judith Basin County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety and Security

Judith Basin County achieves a near-perfect safety score of 99.8. Its total crime rate of 147.1 per 100K is a fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Top-Tier State Ranking

With a 99.8 safety score, Judith Basin is among the safest counties in Montana, where the average score is 98.2. Local crime is incredibly rare compared to the state average of 1,112.5.

Peaceful Regional Standing

The county's crime rate of 147.1 per 100K is similar to Garfield County's 102.5. Both represent some of the most peaceful jurisdictions in the entire state.

Minimal Violent Incidents Reported

Data shows 147.1 violent crimes per 100K and zero property crimes for 2022. This reporting, coming from a single agency, suggests a very quiet environment with very few cases.

Maintaining the Standard

While crime is rare, basic home monitoring helps preserve the county's peaceful atmosphere. Residents are encouraged to stay aware and report any unusual activity to local authorities.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Judith Basin County

via HealthByCounty

Longest life expectancy in sample

At 82.0 years, Judith Basin County residents live 3.1 years above Montana's state average and 3.1 years above the national average of 78.9 years. Just 15.2% report poor or fair health, well below the national average of 21%, reflecting a notably healthy population.

Montana's longest life expectancy

Judith Basin County's 82.0-year life expectancy is the highest in this eight-county Montana sample and well above the state average of 76.3 years. The 15.2% poor/fair health rate and 11.1% uninsured rate both position it in the healthiest tier of Montana counties.

Clear longevity leader region

Judith Basin's 82.0-year life expectancy exceeds every other county in the profile, nearly 10 years ahead of Hill County's 72.9 and 15 years ahead of Glacier County's 66.9. The 11.1% uninsured rate ties with Garfield County as the lowest in the region.

Limited data, strong outcomes

While primary care provider numbers aren't available for Judith Basin County, the strong life expectancy and low poor/fair health rates suggest residents have adequate access to care. Mental health support at 48 per 100,000 is modest but may reflect a smaller population base.

Keep coverage for lifetime wellness

Judith Basin County's exceptional longevity and low uninsured rate demonstrate how coverage supports health across the lifespan. If you're among the 11% uninsured, visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to ensure you're covered and can access the preventive and primary care that builds long, healthy lives.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Judith Basin County

via SchoolsByCounty

Central Montana’s Intimate School Network

Judith Basin County manages nine public schools serving a total of 277 students. This small student body is divided among three districts, each providing a full K-12 educational path.

Strong Investment in Student Success

The county maintains a 75.0% graduation rate and a school score of 58.3, which is above the state average. Per-pupil expenditure is a robust $12,869, nearly matching the national average and far exceeding the Montana average of $9,334.

Hobson and Stanford Districts

The Hobson K-12 district is the largest in the county, serving 136 students. No charter schools exist within Judith Basin, as the community relies entirely on its three traditional K-12 districts.

Small Classes in a Rural Setting

Every school in the county is rural, and the average school size is just 31 students. Hobson Elementary is the largest facility with 67 students, while several middle and high school levels operate with fewer than 30 students.

Find Your Home in the Heart of the Basin

Families who value high per-pupil spending and extremely small class sizes should explore homes in Hobson and Stanford. The high level of financial investment in each student makes this a compelling choice for education-focused buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Judith Basin County

via RiskByCounty

Judith Basin enjoys very low risk

Judith Basin County's composite risk score of 5.50 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 5.50, Judith Basin County ranks well below Montana's state average of 33.31. Your county is one of the more resilient areas in Montana for overall natural disaster risk.

Safest in central Montana region

Judith Basin's risk score of 5.50 is lower than neighboring Garfield (2.48), Golden Valley (0.99), and Granite (9.38), positioning it among the safest in central Montana. Your county enjoys strong protection across the region.

Wildfire is primary concern

Wildfire risk (63.68) is your county's main hazard, followed by tornado risk (7.35) and earthquake risk (18.77). Flood risk (12.63) remains minimal, reflecting the semi-arid landscape.

Focus on wildfire preparedness

Ensure your homeowner's policy covers wildfire and maintain defensible space around your property. Your low overall risk profile means standard homeowner's insurance typically provides adequate protection across hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Judith Basin County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool temperatures with moderate mountain snow

Judith Basin County averages 43.4°F annually, significantly cooler than the national median. It receives 17.7 inches of precipitation, which is higher than many of its eastern Montana neighbors.

Mirroring the Montana state average

At 43.4°F, Judith Basin County sits almost exactly at the Montana state average of 43.7°F. It serves as a representative baseline for the state's typical climate.

Colder than Golden Valley and Lake

Judith Basin is cooler than Golden Valley (44.9°F) and Lake County (45.9°F). It is, however, warmer than Hill County which sits further north at 42.1°F.

Heavy snow and mild summer heat

Winters are snowy, with 44.5 inches falling annually and a January average of 25.8°F. Summers remain comfortable with only 11 days topping 90°F and a July average of 65.2°F.

Prepare for significant winter snow

Residents should invest in snow blowers or plows to manage the 44.5 inches of annual snowfall. Central air conditioning is less of a priority given that only 11 days a year reach extreme heat levels.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Judith Basin County

via SoilByCounty

Heart of Big Sky Soil

Specific soil pH and taxonomic order data for Judith Basin are currently unmeasured in the regional database. The region typically mirrors the Montana state average pH of 7.43, which is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5.

A Foundation for Montana Farming

Detailed sand, silt, and clay percentages are currently unavailable for this county. The area is historically known for its productive dryland farming, suggesting a texture that balances moisture retention and aeration.

Fertility Tracking for Future Growth

Organic matter and available water capacity data for this county are not currently recorded. Improving soil health to reach the state average of 2.54% organic matter can significantly boost the resilience of local crops.

Monitoring Runoff in the Basin

Official drainage classifications are not documented in the current survey for Judith Basin. Local land managers should observe water flow patterns to determine the best use for their specific agricultural or residential acreage.

Bountiful Harvests in Zone 4b

The 4b hardiness zone is perfect for staples like wheat, barley, and potatoes. Plant your garden this season and join a long tradition of successful cultivation in this iconic Montana basin.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Judith Basin County

via LawnByCounty

Judith Basin's Moderate Lawn Struggle

Judith Basin County registers a lawn difficulty score of 30.3, trailing both the state and national averages. Homeowners in this Zone 4b region must work harder than most to overcome the natural climate barriers.

Mild Heat and Modest Rainfall

The county experiences only 11 extreme heat days, but 17.7 inches of annual rainfall is still far below the 30 inches lawns prefer. Mowing schedules should be adjusted based on the 1571 growing degree days available each year.

Soil Health is the Key

Data on local soil texture and pH is not available, so a professional soil test is your best first step. Proper fertilization based on your specific results will help your turf withstand the severe drought conditions common to the area.

Fighting Severe Drought Conditions

A staggering 76.8% of Judith Basin is currently in severe drought, following 40 weeks of dry conditions over the past year. Lawns should be allowed to go dormant during the hottest weeks to protect the crown of the plant from permanent damage.

Kickstarting Your Judith Basin Lawn

Fine Fescues and Kentucky Bluegrass are excellent choices for the local Zone 4b climate. Time your planting for late May or early June, following the last frost on May 28th, to ensure a healthy establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Judith Basin County's county score?
Judith Basin County, Montana has a composite county score of 77.5 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 Judith Basin County rank among counties in Montana?
Judith Basin County ranks #2 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 Judith Basin County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Judith Basin County is $971, with an effective tax rate of 0.45%. This earns Judith Basin County a tax score of 90.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Judith Basin County?
The median household income in Judith Basin County, Montana is $55,417 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Judith Basin County earns an income score of 26.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Judith Basin County, Montana a good place to live?
Judith Basin County scores 77.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #2 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Judith Basin 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 Judith Basin 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.