Fergus County Real Estate and Livability Trends
Fergus County, Montana's real estate market has shown notable trends, with median home values increasing from $121,700 in 2015 to $175,800 in 2022, significantly below the state average of $305,700, potentially signaling attractive investment opportunities. Rising average taxable income and state and local tax liabilities reflect potential changes in property values and living costs. The county's... Read more
Fergus County Market Trends
Fergus County, Montana's median home values have generally risen from $121,700 in 2015 to $175,800 in 2022, staying significantly below the state average of $305,700, possibly highlighting under-the-radar investment prospects. From 2012 to 2021, residential energy tax credits varied widely, peaking at $512.50 in 2021, which might suggest a growing interest in energy-efficient upgrades. Real... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Fergus County, Montana Over the Last 8 Years
Fergus County, Montana, saw its median home values oscillate but generally trend upward over the last eight years, starting at $121,700 in 2015 and hitting $175,800 in 2022. In contrast, the state of Montana exhibited a more dramatic increase, reaching $305,700 in 2022 from $193,500 in 2015, outperforming national trends which peaked at $179,400 in 2022. Such disparity suggests local market nuances within Montana, presenting potential investment and property development opportunities in Fergus County, where home prices remain considerably lower compared to statewide averages.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Fergus County, MT Over the Last 8 Years
Residential energy tax credits in Fergus County, Montana saw significant fluctuations over the last eight years, with averages ranging from $185.71 to $512.50 per tax return. The peak occurred in 2021 at $512.50, hinting at increased investments in energy-efficient upgrades. This trend could be meaningful for prospective investors, property developers, and homeowners focused on sustainable living and cost-effective energy solutions. Understanding these patterns is crucial for real estate agents, insurance agents, and appraisers as it reflects broader economic and environmental initiatives within the county.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Fergus County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Fergus County, Montana, has experienced an upward trend in average real estate taxes per tax return, rising from $2,027.93 in 2012 to $3,445.45 in 2021. The most significant jumps occurred from 2017 to 2020, with noticeable increases each year. This trend could be indicative of the county's rising property values, potential increases in local tax rates, or a growing investment in public services funded by these taxes. It's essential for potential buyers, investors, and real estate professionals to consider these tax dynamics when assessing property affordability and long-term financial planning in Fergus County.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Fergus County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Over the last decade in Fergus County, Montana, the percentage of farm tax returns has shown a gradual downward trend, starting at about 12.59% in 2012 and dipping to roughly 11.06% by 2021. Farm tax returns, which refer to the financial data submitted annually for tax purposes by farm owners or operators, offer insights into the economic health of the local agriculture sector. This shift could suggest changes in farm profitability, operational costs, or farmer demographics, and may be a crucial factor for those considering agricultural investments, property development, or even relocation to the area.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Fergus County, MT Over the Last 5 Years in Fergus County
Over the last five years in Fergus County, Montana, the number of mortgages for principal residences consistently represented the bulk of mortgage counts, peaking in 2021 with 599. In contrast, investment properties and second residences saw significantly lower figures, with investment property mortgages fluctuating narrowly and rarely exceeding 40 per year. Shifts in occupancy types may indicate broader dynamics in the local housing market, such as evolving demand for rental properties or changes in the desirability of using the area for secondary homes. Investors, appraisers, real estate agents, and insurance agents might find these trends suggestive of underlying economic conditions and housing preferences, which could influence property values, risk assessments, and investment strategies.
Economic Outlook
Fergus County, Montana has seen its average taxable income per tax return rise from $46,208.10 in 2013 to $68,283.71 in 2021, reflecting a general upward trend with minor fluctuations. In tandem, state and local income taxes per tax return jumped from $5,095 in 2012 to roughly $9,144 in 2021, most notably after 2017. Similarly, total tax liability per tax return also climbed, hitting $10,105.71 in 2021, which might suggest shifts in local economic conditions or tax policies. These economic... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Fergus County, MT over the last 9 years
Over the last nine years, Fergus County, Montana has seen notable fluctuations in average taxable income per tax return. Starting strong at around $46,208.10 in 2013, it peaked at $68,283.71 in 2021. There was a general upward trend with occasional dips, such as in 2016 and 2019, but the steady climb post-2018 suggests growing economic opportunities. For potential investors, property builders, appraisers, and real estate agents, this indicates a dynamic economic environment that may influence property values and investment potential. Residents and those looking to move here may find this trend reassuring as it hints at broader fiscal health and a potential rise in local services and amenities.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Fergus County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Fergus County, Montana has experienced a notable increase in average state and local income taxes per tax return over the past decade. In 2012, the figure was just over $5,095, but by 2021, it had escalated to approximately $9,144. This rise suggests possible changes in income levels, tax policies, or both. The most significant jumps occurred post-2017, with 2018 alone seeing a sharp uptick to $7,240. Real estate agents, appraisers, and those considering investing in Fergus County should consider these trends, as increasing tax obligations might affect property values, investment returns, and overall cost of living.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Fergus County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Fergus County, Montana has experienced significant variability in its average total tax liability per tax return over the past decade. Despite fluctuations, there appears to be a general upward trend, with more pronounced increases in recent years. Notably, 2021 saw a substantial rise to $10,105.71, which could signal shifting economic conditions or policy changes impacting residents. For potential investors, homeowners, and real estate professionals, understanding these trends might help in anticipating future tax liabilities or assessing the financial health of the county.
Cost of Living in Fergus County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $1,116 | $1,460 | $1,968 | $1,363 | $1,381 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $1,116 | $1,192 | $1,524 | $1,363 | $1,530 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $1,116 | $1,193 | $1,698 | $1,363 | $1,131 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $1,116 | $974 | $1,254 | $1,363 | $1,259 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $917 | $976 | $1,428 | $1,182 | $964 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $917 | $729 | $984 | $1,182 | $971 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $917 | $772 | $1,159 | $591 | $845 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $917 | $498 | $714 | $591 | $723 |
| 2 adults | $697 | $620 | $889 | $0 | $634 |
| 1 adult | $661 | $338 | $444 | $0 | $572 |
Safety trends & Data
Fergus County, Montana, has experienced fluctuating property crime rates over the past five years, with vandalism and larceny-theft being the most prevalent. Vandalism peaked at 11.0 in 2018, while motor vehicle theft showed an early spike to 9.0 but has since significantly dropped. Burglary remained relatively low, with a high of 3.0 in 2018. These variations are crucial for investors, builders, and real estate agents to consider as they influence property values and insurance... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Fergus County, MT Over the Last 5 Years
Over the past five years in Fergus County, Montana, property crime rates have shown interesting patterns. Notably, vandalism and larceny-theft incidents consistently appear the highest, with vandalism peaking at 11.0 in 2018 and 10.0 in 2020. Conversely, motor vehicle theft spiked early in 2018 at 9.0 but has significantly decreased since. Burglary numbers are relatively low, reaching a maximum of 3.0 in 2018. These fluctuations are essential for potential investors, builders, real estate agents, and residents to consider as they reflect on the local safety and potential risk factors influencing property values and insurance costs.
Demographics
Fergus County, Montana, exhibits a near-even gender split among its adult population, with a slight male majority. The county's educational attainment suggests a varied landscape, though high school graduates and some college attendance dominate, with a noticeable portion having achieved a bachelor's degree or higher. Age distribution skews older, with significant populations in the 55 to 74 age group, hinting at a potentially substantial retiree community. Racially, Fergus County is... Read more
Race Distribution in Fergus County, Montana (2022)
Educational Attainment in Fergus County, Montana (2022)
Age Distribution in Fergus County, Montana
Citizen Population in Fergus County, Montana (2022)
Political Trends & Data
Fergus County, Montana, leaned heavily Republican in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election, with the GOP candidate clinching over 74% of the vote. The Democratic contender garnered about 23%, while Libertarian support stayed minimal at approximately 2%. This suggests a strong conservative inclination and minimal interest in third-party options within the... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
In the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election, Fergus County, Montana, appeared to heavily favor the Republican candidate, with just over 74% of the vote. The Democratic candidate trailed significantly, securing around 23%, while Libertarian support was minimal at approximately 2%. The Green Party didn’t seem to gain any traction, and no significant votes were recorded under "Other." These patterns might highlight Fergus County's strong conservative leanings and could suggest a limited appetite for third-party candidates.
74.83% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
22.99% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
2.18% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
Fergus County, Montana boasts a student-to-teacher ratio consistently between 7 and 8 students per teacher, significantly lower than the national average of 14. This educational advantage could be a selling point for families considering relocation, as it suggests a more intimate and individualized learning environment for school-age children. For real estate professionals, highlighting this aspect may attract buyers, while investors and developers might find it an appealing factor for project... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Fergus County, Montana over the last 10 years
Fergus County, Montana has seen a consistent student-to-teacher ratio significantly below the national average of 14 students per teacher over the last decade. With ratios hovering between 7 and 8 students per teacher, the county appears to offer a more intimate educational setting. This could be attractive to families looking to move to the area, as smaller class sizes often allow for more individualized attention and potentially better educational outcomes. For real estate agents, marketing this aspect may appeal to potential buyers with school-age children. Additionally, appraisers and insurance agents might consider the stability and potential desirability of properties in areas with such favorable educational conditions. Investors and developers might also see this as a beneficial factor when planning new projects or developments.
