countyscore
40.1
County Score
Lawn Care 64.4Health 63.3Soil Quality 58.2

County Report Card

About Montgomery County, New York

Lower Than the National Median

Montgomery County earns a composite score of 40.1, trailing the national median of 50.0. The county faces unique economic hurdles compared to many other regions across the country.

Below the New York Benchmark

With a score of 40.1, the county sits below the state average of 47.0. It struggles to compete with more affluent or environmentally secure counties in New York.

Reliable Health and Housing Availability

Health remains a strength with a score of 63.3, while a Cost Score of 34.6 reflects relatively lower home values. The median home value of $141,600 is significantly more accessible than state averages.

Tax Burdens and Water Issues

A Tax Score of 0.4 highlights the pressure of a 2.564% effective tax rate. Additionally, a low Water Score of 16.2 indicates room for improvement in local utility infrastructure.

Suited for Budget-Conscious Renters

This county is a practical choice for individuals seeking lower entry-level housing costs, with median rent at $921. It offers a modest lifestyle for those who prioritize regional proximity over high-end scores.

Score breakdown

Tax0.4Cost34.6Safety49.2Health63.3Schools53.4Income47.9Risk34.8Water16.2Weather51.3
🏛0.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠34.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼47.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡49.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤63.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡34.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧16.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨58.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱64.4
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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Deep Dives

Montgomery County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Montgomery County

via TaxByCounty

Montgomery County taxes above the national average

Montgomery County's effective tax rate of 2.564% surpasses the national median of 2.1% by roughly 460 basis points, placing it solidly in the upper-middle tier of American counties. The typical homeowner here pays $3,630 annually—35% above the national median of $2,690.

Above-average New York tax rate

At 2.564%, Montgomery County's rate exceeds the state average of 2.046% by 520 basis points, making it a higher-tax county statewide. The median property tax of $3,630 falls below the state average of $4,709, reflecting Montgomery's notably lower median home value of $141,600.

Higher taxes than most upstate neighbors

Montgomery County's 2.564% rate tops Lewis County (1.698%), Madison County (2.295%), and Niagara County (2.284%), though it runs slightly below Livingston County (2.466%) and Monroe County (2.788%). It represents a moderate-to-high-tax option in the region.

What a typical Montgomery County home costs to own

On the county's median home value of $141,600, you'll pay roughly $3,630 in annual property taxes at the current effective rate. That figure rises to $3,990 if you finance through a mortgage, and drops to $3,274 for homeowners with no mortgage.

You may be overassessed—here's what to do

Across New York, many homeowners discover their assessed values exceed fair market value, opening the door to successful tax appeals. If you believe your Montgomery County property is overvalued relative to recent comparable sales in your area, filing a grievance during the assessment review period could lower your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Montgomery County

via CostByCounty

Montgomery County matches state affordability

Renters spend exactly 17.6% of income on housing, matching New York's state average precisely, though household incomes are notably lower at $62,923. Median rent of $921 per month sits just below the state average of $1,133, but the lower income base makes the burden feel heavier for working families.

Middle tier affordability with lower incomes

Montgomery County's rent-to-income ratio mirrors the state average, but the county's lower-than-average median household income places it at a disadvantage compared to wealthier regions. At $62,923, the median household income trails the state's general profile, making housing feel less affordable on real terms.

Rent comparable, income lagging behind

Montgomery's $921 rent falls in the middle range of neighbors, but its $62,923 median income is the lowest among nearby counties—Lewis ($68,329), Livingston ($72,464), and Madison ($73,141) all earn more. This income disadvantage makes housing more burdensome, despite rent costs remaining reasonable.

Tight margins on modest incomes

With median household income of $62,923, residents spend roughly $11,052 yearly on rent (17.6%) and $12,012 on ownership costs if mortgaged. The lower income base means less discretionary spending available after housing costs compared to neighbors, creating tighter household budgets overall.

Montgomery County: affordable but income-conscious

Montgomery offers reasonable rents and homes near $141,600, but the lower median income of $62,923 suggests tight household budgets even at these moderate costs. Relocators should verify job prospects and wage levels carefully before moving; affordability here hinges heavily on finding well-compensated work.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Montgomery County

via IncomeByCounty

Montgomery County significantly lags nationally

Montgomery County's median household income of $62,923 falls $11,832 short of the national median of $74,755—a 15.8% gap that marks it as one of the nation's lower-earning counties. This reflects limited job diversity and population decline in this Hudson Valley region.

Among New York's poorest counties

At $62,923, Montgomery County ranks in the bottom quartile of New York's 62 counties, lagging the state average of $76,433 by $13,510. The county struggles with manufacturing losses and limited connection to higher-wage metros.

Struggling within the region

Montgomery County's $62,923 trails every surveyed neighbor, falling $5,406 below Lewis County ($68,329) and $9,230 below Madison County ($73,141). Isolation from major job centers and economic decline distinguish Montgomery from stronger regional peers.

Housing costs bite harder here

Montgomery County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% approaches the affordability danger zone, and median home values of $141,600 remain a stretch for families earning the county median. Housing absorbs a larger share of income, leaving less for savings and emergencies.

Prioritize financial resilience

Montgomery County families face tighter budgets than most New Yorkers, making financial planning essential—start with a robust emergency fund covering 6 months of expenses. Consider education and skill-building investments to access higher-wage work in nearby metros, and seek out employer retirement programs to build security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Montgomery County

via CrimeByCounty

Montgomery County Maintains Safety Advantage

Montgomery County achieves a safety score of 98.2, keeping residents well-protected compared to national trends. Its total crime rate of 1,140.5 is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

Tracking Close to State Averages

The county's safety score of 98.2 sits right at the New York state average of 98.3. Its total crime rate of 1,140.5 per 100K is just slightly higher than the state average of 1,074.4.

Competitive Safety in the Region

Montgomery County's rate of 1,140.5 is very similar to Madison County's 1,133.5. Both counties offer a similar safety profile, though they see more activity than rural Lewis County.

Very Low Violent Crime Statistics

Violent crime is notably low at 70.5 per 100K, which is much lower than the state average of 125.0 and the national 369.8. Property crime makes up 1,070.0 incidents per 100K, about half the national average.

Simple Habits for Home Safety

Because property crime is the primary concern here, keeping doors locked and valuables out of sight is effective. These simple actions maintain the county's strong standing as a safe New York community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Montgomery County

via HealthByCounty

Montgomery County faces serious health challenges

At 75.2 years, Montgomery County's life expectancy is significantly below the U.S. average of 76.4 years—a gap suggesting systemic health barriers. With 19.4% reporting poor or fair health, the county faces the highest health distress rate in this analysis.

Lowest life expectancy in New York's mid-tier

Montgomery County's 75.2-year life expectancy ranks among the lowest in New York State, trailing the state average of 77.9 years by 2.7 years. This gap points to chronic disease burden, limited preventive care, or socioeconomic pressures affecting health outcomes.

Health crisis in an otherwise stable region

Montgomery County's 75.2-year life expectancy and 19.4% poor/fair health rate are severe outliers; neighboring counties like Madison (78.4 years, 14.4% poor/fair) and Livingston (79.4 years, 15.3% poor/fair) show markedly better outcomes. Primary care access is also constrained at 53 per 100K and mental health support limited at 103 per 100K.

Insurance gaps complicate access to care

Montgomery County's 5.0% uninsured rate is near the state average, yet provider scarcity—just 53 primary care and 103 mental health providers per 100K—means many insured residents still struggle to access timely care. Economic hardship may limit residents' ability to afford deductibles or travel to distant providers.

Health coverage is critical in Montgomery

Montgomery County residents face real health challenges, making insurance coverage essential—don't let a gap leave you vulnerable during medical emergencies. Use New York State of Health to find affordable plans, and explore community health centers for cost-effective primary and mental health services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Montgomery County

via SchoolsByCounty

Montgomery County's Focused School Network

Montgomery County manages 16 public schools across five districts, educating 7,337 students. The system is comprised of seven elementary, three middle, and five high schools. These schools serve as vital community hubs for the county's growing student population.

Addressing Academic Growth and Investment

The county's graduation rate currently stands at 79.1%, which trails both the state average and the national 87.0% benchmark. However, per-pupil expenditure is healthy at $13,569, which is above the national average of $13,000. Educators are utilizing these resources to improve the county's overall school score of 62.0.

Amsterdam City Schools Anchor the County

The Amsterdam City School District is the dominant provider, operating six schools and serving 3,652 students. Fonda-Fultonville Central follows with 1,277 students, while Canajoharie Central serves 844 students. The county does not currently have any charter schools, relying on traditional public institutions and BOCES services.

Town-Centered Schools with a Community Feel

With nine schools in towns and seven in rural areas, the educational feel is localized and accessible. The average school size is 459 students, though Amsterdam High School is much larger with 1,179 students. Small primary schools like Fonda-Fultonville K-4 provide a nurturing start for the county's youngest learners.

Find a Home Near Montgomery's Community Schools

Montgomery County offers affordable living near centralized school districts like Amsterdam and Fonda-Fultonville. Families looking for a close-knit town environment often find great value in the residential areas surrounding these campuses. Check out local real estate to see how you can join these active school communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Montgomery County

via RiskByCounty

Montgomery County's risk moderately above national average

At 65.17, Montgomery County's composite risk score sits slightly below the U.S. average, earning a Relatively Low rating. The county experiences meaningful multi-hazard exposure but remains in the safer half of American counties.

Below-average risk within New York State

Montgomery County's 65.17 score falls just below New York's state average of 69.42, placing it slightly into the safer half statewide. However, it ranks as the highest-risk county among its immediate Upstate rural neighbors.

Riskier than Lewis, comparable to Madison and Livingston

Montgomery County (65.17) carries substantially more exposure than Lewis County (24.71) but less than regions closer to New York City. Its risk profile sits between rural safety and urban vulnerability, reflecting the Mohawk Valley's transitional geography.

Flooding drives Montgomery County's exposure

Flood risk (80.47) and hurricane risk (67.96) substantially outpace other hazards, while tornadoes (41.67) and earthquakes (51.84) pose secondary threats. Wildfire risk (27.74) remains notably low compared to western regions.

Prioritize flood and wind coverage now

A standalone flood insurance policy is essential in Montgomery County, particularly for homes in the Mohawk River corridor and tributaries. Ensure your standard policy includes comprehensive wind and hail coverage, and verify earthquake protection if you're in a higher-risk micro-zone.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Montgomery County

via SoilByCounty

Moderate Acidity in the Mohawk Valley

Montgomery County has a pH of 5.73, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. However, this value remains higher than the New York state average of 5.11, indicating a moderate acidity level.

Workable Silty Silt Mix

Silt is the primary component at 49.8%, paired with 31.2% sand and 17.2% clay. This silty texture provides excellent workability and creates a stable environment for sensitive root development.

Steady Organic Growth Potential

Organic matter levels stand at 6.70%, well above the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.164 in/in is just below the state average of 0.182, requiring attentive moisture management during dry spells.

Predicting Soil Hydrology

Detailed drainage and hydrologic classifications are not available in this data set. Based on the 49.8% silt content, gardeners can expect soil that holds moisture well but may be prone to surface crusting.

Diverse Planting in Zone 5b

In hardiness zone 5b, you can successfully grow a wide range of hardy vegetables and beautiful ornamental shrubs. Your soil provides a solid foundation for a beautiful and productive home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Montgomery County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Results in Montgomery

Montgomery County offers a favorable lawn difficulty score of 64.4, outperforming the state average of 61.1. The county sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, which is ideal for classic northern grasses that prefer cold winters and mild summers.

Navigating Data Gaps

While specific annual climate averages are not locally available for this county, the 5b zone classification suggests a standard upstate New York pattern. Residents should monitor local weather carefully, as the lack of extreme heat days typically seen in the region helps prevent lawn stress.

Slightly Acidic Soils

The soil pH of 5.73 is slightly below the ideal range, meaning grass may benefit from a light application of lime. The soil texture is balanced with 17.2% clay and 31.2% sand, providing good structure for moisture retention.

Minimal Water Stress

With only 11 weeks of drought over the last year and no current dry areas reported, water availability is generally not a concern. You can maintain a healthy lawn with standard rainfall and only occasional supplemental watering during the peak of summer.

Choosing the Right Turf

Kentucky Bluegrass is the gold standard for Montgomery County's Zone 5b climate. Since specific frost dates are unavailable in the current dataset, follow the regional tradition of seeding in late August to early September for best establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Montgomery County's county score?
Montgomery County, New York has a composite county score of 40.1 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 Montgomery County rank among counties in New York?
Montgomery County ranks #51 among all counties in New York 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 Montgomery County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Montgomery County is $3,630, with an effective tax rate of 2.56%. This earns Montgomery County a tax score of 0.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Montgomery County?
The median household income in Montgomery County, New York is $62,923 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Montgomery County earns an income score of 47.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Montgomery County, New York a good place to live?
Montgomery County scores 40.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in New York. The best way to evaluate Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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.