countyscore
80.1
County Score
Disaster Risk 98.7Safety 97.5Schools 96.9

County Report Card

About Petroleum County, Montana

Elite livability on a national scale

Petroleum County boasts a remarkable composite score of 80.1, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score places it among the highest-rated counties in the entire country for general quality of life. Its specialized profile offers levels of security rarely seen in the United States.

The gold standard in Montana

Crushing the state average of 56.4, Petroleum County's 80.1 score makes it a top-tier performer in Montana. It sets a high bar for safety, education, and environmental stability that few other counties can match. It is a true standout in the Treasure State.

Unmatched safety and school quality

The county achieves near-perfect marks with a safety score of 97.5 and a school score of 96.9. Risk management is also elite, evidenced by a risk score of 98.7 and a water quality score of 86.0. These numbers represent a community that is incredibly stable and well-protected.

Lower incomes and moderate taxes

While safety is high, the income score is lower at 36.9, with a median household income of $59,318. The tax score of 60.2 is solid, though the effective rate of 0.726% is slightly higher than some neighboring counties. These trade-offs are small compared to the exceptional scores in other dimensions.

Perfect for families seeking total peace

This county is a haven for families who prioritize top-tier education and absolute safety above all else. Its combination of affordable housing and elite social services makes it one of the most desirable rural locations in the nation. It is ideal for those seeking a tight-knit, low-risk community.

Score breakdown

Tax60.2Cost77Safety97.5Health81.8Schools96.9Income36.9Risk98.7Water86Weather32.8
🏛60.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠77
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼36.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤81.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓96.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡98.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤32.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨37.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.3
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

Musselshell County
Montana
59.7
Fergus County
Montana
56.6
Garfield County
Montana
67.7
Phillips County
Montana
62.3
Golden Valley County
Montana
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Yellowstone County
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32.6
Treasure County
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Wheatland County
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Deep Dives

Petroleum County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Petroleum County

via TaxByCounty

Petroleum County taxes slightly above average

Petroleum County's effective rate of 0.726% sits modestly above the national median of 0.84%, placing it roughly in the 45th percentile nationally. The median property tax is $1,261, well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting smaller homes in this rural county.

Middle-of-the-pack within Montana

At 0.726%, Petroleum County's rate sits just below Montana's state average of 0.767%, ranking it in the middle tier of Montana counties. This makes Petroleum reasonably competitive within the state, though not among the very lowest-taxed regions.

Median rates compared to region

Petroleum County's 0.726% rate falls between Musselshell (0.625%) and Powell (0.708%), making it roughly middle-ground regionally. The broader eight-county area averages around 0.75%, so Petroleum sits right at the regional norm.

Median home costs $1,261 yearly

A typical Petroleum County home valued at $173,700 generates $1,261 in annual taxes at the 0.726% rate. Owners with mortgages pay $1,672, while outright owners pay $1,107—a notable gap driven by assessment methodology and timing differences.

Overassessment appeals are your right

In rural Montana counties like Petroleum, assessment errors are common because comparable sales data is sparse. If you believe your home's assessed value exceeds its true market worth, contact the county assessor about filing an appeal—it's free and worth investigating.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Petroleum County

via CostByCounty

Petroleum County: affordable rents, tight incomes

Petroleum County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.6% sits just below the national average, despite a median household income of $59,318 that trails the U.S. median by $15,437. Renters here enjoy relatively manageable housing costs at $769 monthly, giving the county a surprising affordability advantage despite lower wages.

Nearly matches Montana's affordability baseline

Petroleum County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio sits just beneath Montana's 15.9% state average, making it one of the state's more balanced housing markets. The median rent of $769 runs notably below the state median of $825, offering renter-friendly conditions.

Most affordable rents in the region

Petroleum County's $769 median rent undercuts Musselshell County ($865) by $96 and Park County ($927) by $158, making it the rental bargain of the cluster. Despite similar incomes, Petroleum County renters stretch their dollars furthest here—a meaningful advantage in rural Montana.

Renters and owners share similar burden

Petroleum County renters pay $769 monthly (15.6% of median household income of $59,318), while homeowners spend $600 monthly (12.1% of income). This county uniquely distributes housing costs equitably: both renters and owners maintain manageable expense ratios compared to state and national patterns.

Petroleum County's rental value stands out

If affordable rents are your priority, Petroleum County delivers at $769 monthly—among the lowest in rural Montana while maintaining median home values around $173,700. Compare this value to pricier Park County or consider Powder River County's even lower rents for maximum savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Petroleum County

via IncomeByCounty

Petroleum tracks below national average

Petroleum County's median household income of $59,318 falls 21% short of the U.S. median of $74,755, typical of rural counties dependent on agriculture and energy extraction. Despite this gap, the per capita income of $39,877 reflects reasonably efficient household structures for this region. The income profile reflects the county's limited economic diversification.

Holding steady in Montana's middle tier

Petroleum County ranks slightly above Montana's median household income of $62,295 at $59,318—placing it comfortably in the state's middle tier. Per capita income of $39,877 exceeds the state average of $35,700, suggesting relatively good household economic health. The county avoids both the prosperity of tourism-driven areas and the challenges of Montana's poorest counties.

North-central Montana's modest economy

Petroleum's $59,318 income slightly exceeds neighbors Musselshell ($59,010) and Phillips ($58,156), placing it within a tight cluster of central Montana counties. Pondera County to the west lags at $53,500, while Powder River County to the east leads at $68,009. This narrow range reflects shared agricultural, ranching, and small-town service economies across the region.

Affordable housing, tight monthly budgets

A median home value of $173,700 represents just under 3 years of median household income—an excellent affordability ratio—and the 15.6% rent-to-income ratio stays comfortably below the 30% benchmark. However, at roughly $4,943 monthly household income before taxes, families face genuine constraints on discretionary spending and emergency savings. Housing affordability is the county's economic strength.

Building on affordable home foundation

Petroleum County's affordable housing opens wealth-building doors unavailable in high-cost areas; first-time homebuyers should act decisively when mortgage rates favor borrowing. Tax-deferred retirement contributions ($23,500 limit for traditional 401(k)s in 2024) become powerful tools when housing costs stay manageable. Consider working with a fee-only financial planner to create a long-term wealth strategy leveraging the county's low cost of living.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Petroleum County

via CrimeByCounty

Unprecedented Safety Levels in Petroleum County

Petroleum County reports a crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents, achieving a perfect safety score of 100.0. This stands in stark contrast to the national crime rate of 2,385.5. While this data comes from a single reporting agency, it reflects an exceptionally quiet environment.

The Safest Spot in Montana

With a safety score of 100.0, Petroleum County leads the state, far exceeding the Montana average of 98.2. It is statistically the safest county in the state according to 2022 data. This zero-crime reporting sets a high bar for public safety across the region.

Outpacing All Regional Neighbors

Petroleum County is significantly safer than nearby Musselshell County, which has a crime rate of 670.2 per 100,000. It also outshines Phillips County, where rates reach 1,275.6. Even in a state known for safety, Petroleum County’s lack of reported crime is unique.

Zero Reported Violent or Property Crimes

In 2022, there were no reported instances of violent or property crime in the county. While single-agency data should be interpreted with caution, the practical result is a community with no recorded criminal footprint. This level of safety is virtually unheard of in more populated areas.

Preserving Your Community’s Perfect Record

Maintaining a zero-crime environment relies on continued community vigilance and communication with local officials. Even with no reported incidents, basic home security ensures you aren't the first target of a rare occurrence. Neighbors looking out for one another is the county's greatest asset.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Petroleum County

via HealthByCounty

Limited data, but health concerns present

While Petroleum County's life expectancy data is not currently available, the county's 15.2% poor/fair health rate sits below the national average of 16%, suggesting generally adequate population health. This metric offers a partial but meaningful glimpse into resident health status in this sparsely populated county.

Below-average poor health reporting

Petroleum County's 15.2% poor/fair health rate ranks favorably compared to Montana's profile, falling below the state's typical range and suggesting relatively good self-reported health. Complete life expectancy data for this small county remains unavailable, limiting a full state-level comparison.

Health outcomes comparable to region

Petroleum County's 15.2% poor/fair health rate aligns with nearby Phillips County (15.6%) and slightly exceeds Musselshell (17.6%), placing it in the middle of regional health outcomes. Data limitations prevent direct life expectancy comparisons with neighboring counties.

Best-insured but limited provider data

Petroleum County stands out with the lowest uninsured rate among these eight counties at just 6.3%, meaning 94% of residents have health coverage. Data on primary care and mental health provider availability is not currently published for this county, suggesting limited resources relative to larger regional centers.

Maintain excellent coverage rates

Petroleum County's outstanding 6.3% uninsured rate reflects strong community health insurance uptake—keep that momentum going. Visit Healthcare.gov during open enrollment to ensure your coverage remains current and meets your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Petroleum County

via SchoolsByCounty

One District for the Big Sky

Petroleum County operates a streamlined system with 3 public schools—one each for elementary, middle, and high school levels. Total enrollment is just 60 students, all managed under the Winnett K-12 Schools district. It is one of the smallest and most focused educational infrastructures in Montana.

High Investment in a Close-Knit System

Per-pupil expenditure is a high $13,419, surpassing both the state average and the national benchmark of $13,000. While graduation rate data is currently unavailable due to small sample sizes, the county maintains a school score of 44.3. This level of funding ensures that even the most remote students have access to essential resources.

Spotlight on Winnett K-12

The Winnett K-12 district oversees the entirety of the county's public education for its 60 students. All educational activities are concentrated within this single district framework. No charter schools exist in the county, maintaining a purely traditional public school focus.

Ultra-Small Classrooms and Rural Charm

Education here is exclusively rural, with an average school size of only 20 students. Winnett School is the largest campus with 36 students, while the Winnett 7-8 middle school has only 10 pupils. This environment offers an incredibly low student-to-teacher ratio and a true family-style atmosphere.

Finding Your Place in Winnett Schools

For those seeking the ultimate small-town school experience, Petroleum County offers unmatched intimacy. Homes in this region are tied directly to the Winnett K-12 system, making the school the social and civic heart of the area. Quality of life here is deeply intertwined with the success of this single district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Petroleum County

via RiskByCounty

Petroleum County is exceptionally safe

Petroleum County's composite risk score of 1.30 ranks among the lowest in the nation, indicating Very Low natural disaster exposure. This puts the county in the safest tier nationally, with hazard risks far below typical American communities.

Montana's lowest-risk county

Petroleum County's score of 1.30 is dramatically below Montana's state average of 33.31—the county faces roughly 4% of typical state-level risk. It stands as one of the most geographically stable counties in Montana.

Significantly safer than adjacent counties

Petroleum County's risk score of 1.30 is substantially lower than neighboring Phillips County (34.51) and Musselshell County (17.05). The county's isolated location and stable geology create a remarkably low-hazard environment.

Wildfire is the only notable concern

Wildfire risk of 66.48 is the sole significant hazard in Petroleum County, while flood (1.97), tornado (2.54), and earthquake (1.65) risks remain minimal. The county's grassland and rangeland landscape creates seasonal fire potential despite overall low disaster exposure.

Focus on wildfire preparedness and insurance

Basic homeowners insurance covering wildfire is the primary protective measure needed in Petroleum County. Maintain cleared defensible space and monitor seasonal fire conditions, as this is your primary natural hazard exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Petroleum County

via WeatherByCounty

Wide Open and Cooler Than Most

A 46.5°F average keeps Petroleum County about 8 degrees below the national median. This semi-arid region is characterized by wide-open spaces and distinct seasonal shifts.

One of Montana's Warmer Hubs

The county’s 46.5°F temperature ranks comfortably above the 43.7°F Montana average. It serves as one of the state's warmer agricultural territories.

Dry Land and High Snowfall

Its 14.8 inches of precipitation is slightly lower than the state average of 15.4 inches. Despite the relative warmth, it experiences 43.4 inches of snow, surpassing its southern neighbors.

Scorching Summers and Stable Winters

Summers are hot with 35 days of extreme heat and a 70.4°F July average. Winters stay relatively mild for Montana, averaging 26.1°F from December through February.

Versatile HVAC Systems Required

Reliable climate control is necessary to bridge the gap between 90°F summer peaks and the 25.0°F January lows. Outdoor planning must also account for the significant 43.4 inches of annual snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Petroleum County

via SoilByCounty

Naturally Alkaline Plains Soil

The soil pH here averages 7.39, which is slightly less alkaline than the Montana average of 7.43 but above the national 6.5 median. The county's soil score is 37.8, reflecting its unique prairie challenges.

Silt and Clay Dominance

With 30.7% clay and 39.2% silt, these soils are heavy and retain moisture longer than sandy profiles. Sand makes up 30.1% of the mix, providing some necessary structure.

Lower Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter levels are 1.71%, trailing both the national 2.0% average and the state 2.54% average. The water capacity of 0.161 in/in is nearly on par with the Montana average.

Heavy Soil Management

Though specific drainage classes are not listed, the high clay content suggests slow drainage and high moisture retention. Be mindful of compaction if working the soil while it is wet.

Short-Season Success in 4b

Zone 4b favors short-season crops like peas, radishes, and certain grains. Focus on adding compost to boost organic matter and improve your garden's overall health.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Petroleum County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Conditions in Petroleum County

Petroleum County's lawn difficulty score of 41.3 makes it one of the more favorable spots in Montana for turf management. This Zone 4b region offers a better growing environment than the state average of 33.4, though it remains a semi-arid climate.

Low Precipitation Meets Moderate Heat

The area receives 14.8 inches of rain annually, meaning significant irrigation is required to reach the 30-inch ideal for lawns. With 35 days reaching over 90°F, grass requires a consistent watering schedule to survive the peak of summer.

Heavy Clay Demands Good Drainage

The soil contains 30.7% clay, which can lead to drainage issues if not properly managed. An alkaline pH of 7.39 means you may need to apply sulfur or organic matter to help lower the pH toward the ideal 6.5 mark.

Managing Moderate Drought Stress

Petroleum County faced 18 weeks of drought in the past year, with current conditions showing 100% abnormally dry coverage. Maintaining a mowing height of three inches or more will help shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Early Season Planting Advantage

Zone 4b is perfect for hardy cool-season blends like Kentucky Bluegrass and Wheatgrass. Start your seeding after the May 16 frost date to take advantage of the spring growing degree days before the summer heat arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Petroleum County's county score?
Petroleum County, Montana has a composite county score of 80.1 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 Petroleum County rank among counties in Montana?
Petroleum County ranks #1 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 Petroleum County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Petroleum County is $1,261, with an effective tax rate of 0.73%. This earns Petroleum County a tax score of 60.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Petroleum County?
The median household income in Petroleum County, Montana is $59,318 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Petroleum County earns an income score of 36.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Petroleum County, Montana a good place to live?
Petroleum County scores 80.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Petroleum 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 Petroleum 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.