countyscore
49.3
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 85Cost of Living 71.8

County Report Card

About Sheridan County, Montana

Sheridan Nears the National Median

Sheridan County scores a 49.4, placing it just slightly below the national median of 50.0. It offers a middle-of-the-road experience compared to counties across the United States.

Behind the Montana State Average

At 49.4, Sheridan trails the Montana state average of 56.4. While it remains functional and affordable, it lacks the high composite marks found in other parts of the state.

Clean Water and Low Risk

Sheridan shines with an 86.0 Water Score and an 85.0 Risk Score, indicating a clean and environmentally resilient environment. Housing remains affordable with a home value of $111,600 and a 71.8 Cost Score.

High Taxes and Safety Concerns

The county struggles with a Tax Score of 21.4 due to a high 1.287% effective tax rate. Its Safety Score of 22.1 is also lower than state norms, highlighting a need for better community security.

A Resilience-First Rural Option

Sheridan is best for those who prioritize environmental stability and cheap homeownership. It suits residents who can manage a higher tax burden in exchange for high resilience against natural hazards.

Score breakdown

Tax21.4Cost71.8Safety22.1Health62.4Schools56.2Income50Risk85Water86Weather36.2
🏛21.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠71.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼50
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡22.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡85
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨50.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱33.6
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

Roosevelt County
Montana
46.5
Daniels County
Montana
67.8
Divide County
North Dakota
72.2
Williams County
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Richland County
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McKenzie County
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McCone County
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Burke County
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Deep Dives

Sheridan County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Sheridan County

via TaxByCounty

Sheridan's rate ranks in top 5% nationally

At 1.287%, Sheridan's effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.84% by 53%, placing it among America's highest-taxed counties. Despite this steep rate, the median property tax is only $1,436 due to very low home values of $111,600.

Montana's highest tax burden county

Sheridan ranks as the single highest-taxed county in Montana at 1.287%, nearly 68% above the state average of 0.767%. Only Roosevelt County comes close, creating a clear tier of heavy taxation in northeastern Montana.

Tied for region's steepest burden

Sheridan and Roosevelt are virtually identical at 1.287-1.286%, both far exceeding every other Montana county. Sheridan's rate is nearly double Richland's (0.747%) and triple Ravalli's (0.529%).

What $112K home costs in taxes

A median Sheridan home valued at $111,600 generates approximately $1,436 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect $1,475; without, roughly $1,417.

Appeals are essential at these rates

In Montana's highest-taxing county, every overassessment multiplies the damage—a 10% overvalue could mean $140+ in annual waste. Filing a free assessment appeal should be standard practice for Sheridan homeowners.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sheridan County

via CostByCounty

Sheridan balances affordability with modest income

Sheridan County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below the national benchmark, even though median household income trails the national average by 15%. At $749 monthly rent on $63,654 income, Sheridan residents maintain reasonable housing affordability.

Better than average Montana affordability

Sheridan's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio beats Montana's state average of 15.9%, positioning it among the state's more manageable rental markets. Median rent of $749 sits close to the state average of $825, contributing to this positive positioning.

Mid-range rents, solid affordability ratio

Sheridan's $749 rent falls between Roosevelt ($707) and Richland ($866), while its 14.1% burden ratio outperforms most neighbors. Only Rosebud's 13.7% ratio surpasses Sheridan in proportional affordability within this region.

Sheridan's balanced housing allocation

Renters allocate 14.1% of a $63,654 annual income—$749 monthly—to housing, among the lower burdens in this county group. Homeowners spend $706 monthly for median homes valued at just $111,600, making Sheridan an exceptional ownership market with 13.3% of income going to housing.

Strong choice for first-time homebuyers

Sheridan County combines above-average Montana income ($63,654) with below-average ownership costs (median home: $111,600), creating Montana's most accessible homeownership market. If building equity matters more than rental flexibility, Sheridan warrants top consideration.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sheridan County

via IncomeByCounty

Sheridan approaches the national baseline

Sheridan County's median household income of $63,654 is 14.9% below the U.S. median of $74,755, yet it remains stronger than many rural communities nationwide. The county's per capita income of $41,202 shows solid earning capacity relative to population.

Mid-range for Montana

Sheridan's $63,654 slightly exceeds Montana's state average of $62,295 by 2.2%, signaling a relatively balanced local economy. The county avoids the severe income constraints facing eastern Montana's most isolated areas.

Sheridan ranks solidly among peers

Sheridan's $63,654 places it sixth in this eight-county comparison, ahead of Roosevelt ($53,125), Rosebud ($56,430), Sanders ($54,035), and Silver Bow ($57,504). Only Ravalli and Stillwater counties command noticeably higher household incomes.

Excellent housing affordability

Sheridan's rent-to-income ratio of 14.1% ranks among Montana's best, and its median home value of just $111,600 makes homeownership highly accessible. Combined, these factors mean housing costs pose minimal burden on household finances.

Build equity through homeownership

Sheridan's low housing costs—both rent and purchase price—create an exceptional opportunity for wealth building through property ownership. Households can use savings from affordable housing to fund retirement accounts, education investments, or additional income-generating assets.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sheridan County

via CrimeByCounty

Sheridan County Nears National Crime Rates

Sheridan County has a total crime rate of 2,000.0 per 100K, which is approaching the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 96.8, slightly lower than state norms.

Below the Montana Average

With a safety score of 96.8, Sheridan County falls below the Montana average of 98.2. Its crime rate of 2,000.0 per 100K is significantly higher than the state average of 1,112.5.

Comparing Against Eastern Neighbors

Sheridan County is considerably less safe than neighbors like Richland County (1,152.5) and Roosevelt County (1,092.7). This data comes from a single reporting agency, so context is important.

Analyzing Specific Crime Challenges

Property crime is the primary concern at 1,405.4 per 100K, though it is still lower than the national average. Violent crime stands at 594.6, which is higher than the national rate of 369.8.

Home Protection for Sheridan Residents

With a property crime rate of 1,405.4 per 100K, residents should prioritize home security systems. Keeping property well-lit and organized can deter theft in neighborhoods with higher activity.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sheridan County

via HealthByCounty

Sheridan's health aligns with national norm

Sheridan County's life expectancy of 76.6 years slightly exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years, while its 13.6% poor/fair health rate falls well below the national average of 17%. This positions Sheridan as a relatively healthy county compared to most of America.

Slightly above Montana's average health

At 76.6 years, Sheridan County's life expectancy edges out Montana's 76.3-year average by 0.3 years, putting it in the upper half of the state's rankings. Its 12.4% uninsured rate sits slightly above the state average of 11.9%, suggesting modest insurance gaps.

Limited primary care access nearby

Sheridan's 28 primary care providers per 100K matches Richland County's challenge, making it one of rural Montana's least-served areas for primary care. Mental health services at 200 per 100K are moderate compared to better-resourced neighbors like Sanders (278 per 100K).

Good health outcomes despite tight access

Sheridan County achieves above-average life expectancy and low poor/fair health rates despite having only 28 primary care providers per 100K. With 12.4% uninsured, residents face modest insurance gaps that could be addressed through targeted enrollment efforts.

Keep coverage strong in Sheridan

Sheridan County's 12.4% uninsured rate shows room for improvement in coverage. Check Healthcare.gov to ensure you and your family are enrolled in affordable plans that protect your health.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sheridan County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Schools in the Northeast Corner

Sheridan County serves a total of 505 students across just nine schools. These facilities are organized into three districts, each providing an elementary, middle, and high school path. This streamlined structure serves the residents of the state's far northeastern agricultural lands.

Top-Tier School Scores and High Spending

The county boasts a 60.3 school score, which is well above the state average of 53.7 and the national median of 50.0. This performance is supported by a robust $11,738 per-pupil expenditure, significantly higher than the Montana average. The graduation rate is competitive at 83.5%, nearly matching the state benchmark.

Plentywood Schools Serve the Majority

Plentywood K-12 is the county's largest district, educating 371 of the 505 total students. Medicine Lake and Westby K-12 schools serve the remaining student population in even more intimate settings. All nine schools are traditional public institutions, with no charter school presence in the county.

The Ultimate Small-School Experience

With an average school size of only 56 students, Sheridan County offers some of the most personalized instruction in the state. All nine schools are rural, and Plentywood School is the largest with 207 primary students. High school cohorts can be as small as 24 students, as seen in Medicine Lake.

Relocate for Superior School Scores

If you are looking for a home where your child will receive individualized attention, Sheridan County's high school scores make it a standout choice. Homes in Plentywood offer the best access to the county's largest educational and athletic facilities. This is a premier location for families seeking a safe, high-performing rural environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sheridan County

via RiskByCounty

Sheridan ranks among safest counties

Sheridan County's composite risk score of 15.08 is exceptionally low, well below national averages, earning a Very Low rating. The county benefits from minimal flood, tornado, and earthquake exposure.

Montana's lowest-risk county

Sheridan scores 15.08 against Montana's average of 33.31, making it among the safest counties in the state by composite risk. All hazard categories fall below state norms.

Significantly safer than western peers

Sheridan (15.08) is far less exposed than Ravalli County (78.47), Sanders County (47.36), and Rosebud County (49.71). Its Very Low rating reflects the northeastern plains' relatively benign natural hazard profile.

Wildfire is only notable concern

Wildfire risk of 51.21 is Sheridan's primary exposure, though still moderate in isolation. All other hazards—flood (13.26), tornado (16.13), and earthquake (6.46)—rank substantially below state and national averages.

Standard insurance likely sufficient

Sheridan County's low hazard profile means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection for most properties. If your home is in a wildland area, confirm wildfire coverage; otherwise, your existing policy likely covers major risks.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sheridan County

via WeatherByCounty

One of the Coldest in the Nation

Sheridan County averages just 40.0°F annually, placing it among the coldest regions in the lower 48 states. This extreme northern climate features long, bitter winters and short, intense summers.

Far Below State Temperature Averages

The county’s 40.0°F average is significantly colder than the Montana state average of 43.7°F. Residents experience a winter that is much harsher than the state norm.

Bitter Cold in the Northeast Corner

Sheridan is one of the state's coldest spots, with a January average of only 10.3°F. It receives 14.6 inches of precipitation annually, which is slightly below the state average of 15.4 inches.

A Winter-Dominant Seasonal Cycle

Winter temperatures average a frigid 13.1°F from December to February, making outdoor activity a challenge. July provides relief with a 67.6°F average, though there are still 17 days of extreme heat.

Survival Gear for the Deep Cold

Heating reliability is the top priority for Sheridan residents facing 10-degree January averages. Ensure your home is well-insulated and your vehicle is equipped for sub-zero starts and 31.3 inches of seasonal snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sheridan County

via SoilByCounty

High-Quality Ground in the Northeast

Sheridan County stands out with a soil score of 50.7, well above the state average of 43.1. The soil is alkaline with an average pH of 7.44, nearly identical to the state average but much higher than the national median of 6.5. This profile indicates a mineral-rich environment perfect for northern agriculture.

A Silty and Sandy Foundation

The soil is a fairly even split of 36.8% silt and 36.3% sand, rounded out by 25.0% clay. This mix provides excellent workability while the clay content ensures it doesn't dry out too quickly. It is a robust texture that supports both large-scale farming and home gardening.

Superior Organic Matter Levels

This county excels in fertility, with an organic matter content of 3.63%, far exceeding the state average of 2.54% and the national 2.0%. Combined with an Available Water Capacity of 0.167 in/in, these soils are highly productive. The land naturally holds onto both nutrients and the moisture needed to deliver them.

Efficient Water Use for Crops

While a specific drainage class is not listed, the high organic matter and balanced texture suggest efficient water management. The 25% clay content helps prevent the rapid leaching of nutrients. These characteristics make it a resilient landscape for managing the varied precipitation of the plains.

Tough Growing in Zone 3b

Sheridan County is in Hardiness Zone 3b, one of the coldest in the lower 48 states. Despite the harsh winters, the rich soil is perfect for high-protein wheat and cold-weather crops like potatoes and peas. Use frost blankets and cold frames to make the most of the high-quality dirt.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sheridan County

via LawnByCounty

Extreme Cold Challenges Sheridan Lawns

Sheridan County has a difficulty score of 33.6, which is nearly identical to the Montana state average. However, its Hardiness Zone 3b classification means it faces some of the coldest winters in the lower 48 states. This extreme cold is the primary obstacle for maintaining perennial turf.

A Short Window for Growth

With only 17 extreme heat days and 1,860 growing degree days, the growing season is brief and cool. Annual precipitation of 14.6 inches is less than half the national ideal, requiring supplemental water. Frost can linger until May 19 and return as early as September 18.

Slightly Alkaline and Sandy Soil

The soil pH is 7.44, putting it slightly above the ideal range for most turfgrasses. A texture of 36.3% sand and 25.0% clay allows for decent drainage, though it may require organic amendments to hold moisture. Monitoring your pH can help prevent nutrient deficiencies common in alkaline soils.

Adapting to Consistent Drought

The county faced 37 weeks of drought last year, and 57.3% of the area currently experiences abnormally dry conditions. Use drought-tolerant grass varieties to reduce the need for constant watering during the dry July months. Efficient irrigation is crucial given the low 14.6-inch annual rainfall.

Select the Toughest Turf Varieties

Only the most cold-hardy species like Smooth Brome or Sheep Fescue will survive a Sheridan County winter. Plan to seed your lawn immediately after the May 19 frost date to maximize the limited growing season. These rugged grasses are your best bet for a lawn that returns year after year.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sheridan County's county score?
Sheridan County, Montana has a composite county score of 49.3 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 Sheridan County rank among counties in Montana?
Sheridan County ranks #40 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 Sheridan County, Montana?
The median annual property tax in Sheridan County is $1,436, with an effective tax rate of 1.29%. This earns Sheridan County a tax score of 21.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sheridan County?
The median household income in Sheridan County, Montana is $63,654 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sheridan County earns an income score of 50/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sheridan County, Montana a good place to live?
Sheridan County scores 49.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #40 in Montana. The best way to evaluate Sheridan 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 Sheridan 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.