countyscore
38.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 76.6Health 76.3Property Tax 52.7

County Report Card

About Lewis and Clark County, Montana

Falling Below the National Median

Lewis and Clark County earns a composite score of 38.4, which sits significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balance of high earning potential against notable urban pressures like safety and housing costs.

Trailing the Montana Average

The county lags behind the Montana state average composite score of 56.4. While it serves as a central hub, its overall livability index ranks lower than many of its more rural counterparts across the state.

High Incomes and Strong Health Metrics

The county excels in health and wealth, posting a high income score of 76.6 with a median household income of $74,543. Health outcomes are equally strong at 76.3, suggesting a population with robust access to wellness and medical services.

Addressing Safety and Housing Costs

Safety is a primary concern with a low score of 13.5, and housing affordability struggles with a cost score of 17.9. With a median home value of $358,200, residents face higher financial barriers than in neighboring regions.

A Choice for Ambitious Professionals

This county is best suited for career-oriented professionals who prioritize high salaries and health over safety and housing bargains. It offers a fast-paced environment for those who can navigate its higher cost of living.

Score breakdown

Tax52.7Cost17.9Safety13.5Health76.3Schools38.4Income76.6Risk28.8Water26.1Weather40.6
🏛52.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠17.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼76.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡13.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤76.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡28.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧26.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤40.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱26.4
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

Powell County
Montana
59.4
Teton County
Montana
62.9
Cascade County
Montana
33.5
Jefferson County
Montana
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Broadwater County
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Meagher County
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Granite County
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Pondera County
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Deep Dives

Lewis and Clark County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lewis and Clark County

via TaxByCounty

Lewis and Clark taxes above national average

At 0.806%, Lewis and Clark's effective property tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.71%, placing it in the upper third nationally. The county's median tax bill of $2,886 runs 7% higher than the nation's $2,690, reflecting both strong home values and steeper rates.

5th highest rate in Montana

Lewis and Clark ranks 5th among Montana's 56 counties for effective tax rate at 0.806%, well above the state average of 0.767%. Only Missoula, Liberty, Meagher, and Glacier counties tax property more aggressively.

Pricier homes, pricier taxes

Lewis and Clark's median home value of $358,200 tops nearby Lincoln County ($258,700) and Meagher County ($244,400), driving a median tax bill of $2,886. That's $387 more than Lincoln County residents pay annually, despite similar tax rates across the region.

Your $2,886 annual tax bill

A typical Lewis and Clark home worth $358,200 generates an annual property tax of $2,886—or $240 per month. With a mortgage, you'll pay $2,973 annually; without, $2,744.

You might be overassessed

Studies show 10-15% of homeowners statewide overpay property taxes due to assessment errors. Lewis and Clark residents can request a free reappraisal if recent sales nearby show lower values—a process that takes weeks and costs nothing.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lewis and Clark County

via CostByCounty

Lewis and Clark rents strain local budgets

Renters here spend 17.1% of household income on rent, exceeding the national standard of 15%. The median rent of $1,062 per month is 29% higher than Montana's state average of $825, putting downward pressure on renters earning the national median income of $74,755.

Among Montana's most expensive rentals

Lewis and Clark ranks in the upper tier for rental costs across Montana's 56 counties. At 17.1%, the rent-to-income ratio sits 1.2 percentage points above the state average of 15.9%, signaling affordability challenges that persist even in a county with above-average incomes.

Costlier than much of central Montana

Rents here exceed nearby Madison County ($1,159) only slightly, but significantly outpace McCone County ($543) and Liberty County ($668). The $1,062 median rent reflects Lewis and Clark's role as Montana's second-largest population center and state capital.

Housing absorbs significant income share

With a median household income of $74,543, renters dedicate roughly $12,750 annually to rent, while homeowners pay approximately $16,224 yearly for mortgage costs. Combined rental and ownership expenses reveal that housing remains the largest budget line item for most local households.

Compare before relocating to Helena area

If you're considering moving to Lewis and Clark for work or lifestyle, compare your income against the 17.1% rent-to-income benchmark. Nearby McCone County ($543 rent) and Liberty County ($668 rent) offer dramatically lower housing costs, though typically with fewer job and cultural amenities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lewis and Clark County

via IncomeByCounty

Right on par with America

Lewis and Clark County's median household income of $74,543 sits virtually on the national median of $74,755, placing it squarely in the middle of American prosperity. This stability reflects the county's balance of state capital activity and diverse economic opportunities in Helena.

Montana's second wealthiest county

At $74,543, Lewis and Clark ranks in the top tier of Montana counties, earning $12,248 more than the state median of $62,295. Only a handful of Montana counties surpass this income level, reflecting Helena's role as the economic engine of central Montana.

Outearning Madison and Missoula

Lewis and Clark edges out neighboring Madison County ($67,420) and Missoula County ($71,246), despite Missoula's larger population and university presence. This advantage stems from government employment and Helena's status as the state capital.

Comfortable but rent pressing hard

The 17.1% rent-to-income ratio suggests housing is manageable here, but the median home value of $358,200 requires substantial household earnings to purchase. For renters, this county offers one of Montana's better affordability profiles.

Build capital in Helena's stable economy

With income matching the national average, Lewis and Clark County residents have solid ground to invest in retirement and wealth-building. The state capital's stable employment and proximity to outdoor recreation make it an attractive place to grow long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lewis and Clark County

via CrimeByCounty

Lewis and Clark’s National Safety Profile

Lewis and Clark County reports a total crime rate of 2,490.0 per 100,000 residents, placing it slightly above the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, the county earns a high safety score of 96.1 out of 100. This indicates that while incidents occur, the overall environment remains safer than many comparable US regions.

Comparing Crime to the Montana Average

The county's total crime rate is more than double the Montana state average of 1,112.5 per 100,000 residents. Its safety score of 96.1 trails the state average of 98.2. Local law enforcement agencies face a higher call volume here than in most other Montana jurisdictions.

Lewis and Clark vs Regional Neighbors

Lewis and Clark sees significantly more activity than neighboring Meagher County, where the crime rate is a low 205.3 per 100,000. However, it remains safer than Missoula County, which struggles with a much higher rate of 3,111.1. The county sits in a middle ground for safety within Western Montana.

Breakdown of Violent and Property Crimes

Property crime dominates the local landscape at 1,990.6 per 100,000, which is just below the national average. Violent crime stands at 499.4 per 100,000, exceeding the national figure of 369.8. These numbers reflect reporting from three active agencies within the county.

Prioritizing Security in Lewis and Clark

With property crime accounting for the majority of incidents, home security remains a smart investment for residents. Installing motion-sensor lighting and smart locks can effectively deter opportunistic theft. Consistent community vigilance helps maintain the county’s overall safety ranking.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lewis and Clark County

via HealthByCounty

Lewis and Clark outlives the nation

At 78.3 years, Lewis and Clark County residents live nearly a year longer than the U.S. average of 77.6 years. Just 12% report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 16.5%, signaling stronger overall wellness across the county.

Top health outcomes in Montana

Lewis and Clark ranks among Montana's healthiest counties, with a life expectancy 2 years above the state average of 76.3 years. The county's 9.5% uninsured rate also beats Montana's average of 11.9%, reflecting better healthcare access statewide.

Strong primary care, excellent mental health

Lewis and Clark operates 94 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—nearly double Lincoln County's 73—and boasts 591 mental health providers per 100K, the highest among surveyed Montana counties. This abundance of providers puts residents within easier reach of mental and physical health services.

Access remains a daily reality

With 94 primary care providers per 100K and 591 mental health providers per 100K, Lewis and Clark offers robust healthcare infrastructure compared to rural neighbors. Still, 9.5% of residents lack health insurance, meaning nearly 1 in 11 go without coverage.

Check your coverage today

If you're among the 9.5% uninsured in Lewis and Clark County, now is the time to explore your options. Visit Healthcare.gov or contact local community health centers to find a plan that fits your family's needs and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lewis and Clark County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large Network of Capital City Schools

Lewis and Clark County operates 29 public schools across nine districts to serve 10,013 students. The infrastructure includes 19 elementary, five middle, and five high schools.

Strong Graduation Rates Outpace State Averages

The county's 85.8% graduation rate exceeds the state average of 83.7%, though it trails the national benchmark of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure sits at $7,428, which is lower than the Montana average of $9,334.

Helena Elementary Leads the Region

Helena Elementary is the largest district, managing 13 schools and 5,225 students. Capital High School is the county's largest individual facility, enrolling 1,427 students.

A Mix of Town and Rural Learning

The county features 18 schools in town locales and 11 in rural settings, with an average school size of 345 students. Enrollment ranges from over 1,400 at Capital High to much smaller rural cohorts.

Find a Home Near Established Schools

Families often prioritize school quality when choosing a neighborhood in the Helena area. Explore local real estate to find a home near these high-capacity educational centers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lewis and Clark County

via RiskByCounty

Lewis and Clark faces above-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 71.25, Lewis and Clark County ranks in the relatively low category—but sits well above the national baseline. This score reflects significant exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly wildfire and earthquake risks that exceed typical American county profiles.

Among Montana's riskiest counties

Lewis and Clark's score of 71.25 far exceeds Montana's state average of 33.31, placing it among the state's most hazard-exposed counties. The county's vulnerability stands out due to concentrated earthquake and wildfire risks that dominate its risk profile.

Higher risk than most neighbors

Lewis and Clark's composite score of 71.25 significantly outpaces nearby Madison County (41.03) and Meagher County (2.80). Only Missoula County, at 77.04, carries comparably elevated disaster risk in the region.

Wildfire and earthquake dominate here

Wildfire risk reaches 92.84 in Lewis and Clark—nearly as high as the state's most fire-prone counties—while earthquake risk scores 86.77, reflecting the county's location in a seismically active zone. Flood risk, at 64.57, also poses meaningful exposure to property damage, particularly along river corridors.

Comprehensive coverage protects your investment

Lewis and Clark residents should prioritize comprehensive homeowners insurance that explicitly covers wildfire damage, often excluded from standard policies. Adding earthquake coverage is essential given the county's 86.77 earthquake risk score; bundled policies typically offer cost savings.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lewis and Clark County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool Continental Climate in the Rockies

Lewis and Clark County maintains an annual average temperature of 43.3°F, significantly cooler than the national county median of roughly 54°F. This semi-arid region experiences dry air and sharp temperature shifts typical of high-elevation mountain environments.

Matching the Montana State Average

The county's average temperature sits just below the Montana state average of 43.7°F. With 15.6 inches of annual precipitation, it aligns closely with the state's typical moisture levels of 15.4 inches.

Warmer and Drier Than High-Altitude Neighbors

At 43.3°F, the county is notably warmer than neighboring Meagher County, which averages only 41.4°F. It also sees far less snow than nearby Missoula County, recording 32.6 inches compared to Missoula's 73.9 inches.

Moderate Summers Meet Sharp Winter Chills

July brings a pleasant average of 65.7°F, though residents face 15 extreme heat days over 90°F annually. Winters are brisk with a January average of 24.7°F and reliable, though not overwhelming, snowfall.

Preparing for Arid Extremes and Elevation

Homeowners should prioritize efficient heating systems for the 25.2°F winter average and consider moderate cooling for the two weeks of summer heat. Given the 15.6 inches of precipitation, water-wise landscaping is essential for local gardens.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lewis and Clark County

via SoilByCounty

A High-Altitude Alkaline Profile

While local taxonomic data is limited, Lewis and Clark County generally follows the Montana trend toward alkaline soils. The state average pH of 7.43 sits significantly higher than the national median of 6.5, affecting how nutrients dissolve for plants.

Awaiting Local Textural Data

Specific percentages for sand, silt, and clay are currently unrecorded for this rugged mountain terrain. These ratios are essential for understanding if the ground will drain quickly or hold onto moisture during the dry summer months.

Benchmarks for Local Growth

Specific organic matter levels are unavailable, but the state average of 2.54% serves as a helpful target for local growers. Without a recorded available water capacity (AWC), gardeners should monitor their soil's moisture retention closely.

Managing Runoff and Drainage

Formal drainage classes are not yet cataloged for the county's diverse topography. Residents should observe their specific plots for pooling or rapid runoff, especially during the heavy spring snowmelt cycles.

Resilient Gardening in Zone 4b

The Hardiness Zone 4b climate supports cold-hardy staples like kale, peas, and root vegetables. Start a garden today and use raised beds to easily manage soil quality in this short-season environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lewis and Clark County

via LawnByCounty

A Challenging Climate for Turf

Lewis and Clark County has a lawn difficulty score of 26.4, making it significantly harder to maintain than the national average of 50.0. Sitting in Hardiness Zone 4b, your lawn faces more environmental stress than the Montana state average of 33.4.

Dry Skies and Tight Windows

Annual precipitation is only 15.6 inches, which is far below the ideal 30-50 inches needed for healthy grass. With a final spring frost on May 21 and only 1566 growing degree days, the season for establishes turf is relatively brief.

Preparing Your Soil Base

While specific local soil metrics are unavailable, Montana mountain-basin soils typically benefit from heavy organic amendments. You should conduct a private soil test to determine if your yard needs pH adjustments to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range.

Coping with Persistent Drought

The county spent all 53 weeks of the past year in drought, and over 37% of the area currently faces severe conditions. To conserve water, irrigate deeply and infrequently at dawn to ensure moisture reaches the root zone.

Choosing Rugged Grass Species

Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescues are the best options for the cold 4b winters. Aim to seed your lawn shortly after the May 21 frost to give the grass time to establish before the September freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lewis and Clark County's county score?
Lewis and Clark County, Montana has a composite county score of 38.4 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 Lewis and Clark County rank among counties in Montana?
Lewis and Clark County ranks #51 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 Lewis and Clark County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Lewis and Clark County is $2,886, with an effective tax rate of 0.81%. This earns Lewis and Clark County a tax score of 52.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lewis and Clark County?
The median household income in Lewis and Clark County, Montana is $74,543 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lewis and Clark County earns an income score of 76.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lewis and Clark County, Montana a good place to live?
Lewis and Clark County scores 38.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Lewis and Clark 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 Lewis and Clark 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.