Flathead County Real Estate and Livability Trends
Flathead County, Montana's real estate market is shaping up to be both an opportunity and a challenge for investors and developers. Average taxable incomes have nearly doubled since 2013, potentially signaling economic prosperity, yet rising state and local taxes could affect ROI calculations. Median home values surged from $231,500 in 2015 to $414,200 in 2022, outpacing state and national... Read more
Flathead County Market Trends
In Flathead County, Montana, median home values have soared from $231,500 in 2015 to $414,200 in 2022, surpassing state and national growth rates which suggests substantial value appreciation for investments. Although residential energy tax credits per return have fluctuated, peaking at $2,116.67 in 2018, this variability may present opportunities centered around energy-efficient home... Read more
Median Value of Occupied Housing Units in Flathead County, Montana Over the Last 8 Years
Flathead County, Montana, has seen a steady and impressive increase in median home values over the past eight years, jumping from $231,500 in 2015 to $414,200 in 2022. This regional growth outpaces both state and national trends, with Montana's median home value increasing from $193,500 to $305,700, and the national median rising from $125,500 to $179,400 over the same period. These numbers highlight Flathead County as a potentially lucrative market for investors and homebuyers seeking significant value appreciation.
Residential Energy Tax Credit Per Tax Return in Flathead County, MT Over the Last 9 Years
Over the past nine years in Flathead County, Montana, average residential energy tax credits claimed per tax return have fluctuated significantly. Peaks in 2018, at an impressive average of $2116.67, may indicate a surge in energy-efficient home investments. Such variability suggests potential opportunities for investors and homeowners to capitalize on energy-saving incentives, possibly reflecting shifting local policies or increased awareness of sustainable practices. This trend could be crucial for real estate agents and appraisers for property valuation and for insurance agents assessing risk related to energy inefficiencies.
Average Real Estate Taxes Per Tax Return in Flathead County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Over the last decade, Flathead County, Montana has seen a notable increase in average real estate taxes per tax return. From $3,098.09 in 2012 to $5,492.25 in 2021, the trend indicates rising property values and potentially higher municipal investments. This persistent growth can attract prospective investors, real estate agents, and appraisers, and suggests an evolving market making the county more appealing for property development and residential growth. However, higher taxes might also imply increased costs of living, a crucial consideration for those planning a move to the area.
Percentage of Farm Returns in Flathead County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Farm tax returns in Flathead County, Montana, have seen a gradual decline over the last 10 years. In 2012, the percentage of farm tax returns was around 1.60%, dropping to approximately 1.26% by 2021. This trend may raise concerns for those looking to invest in agricultural ventures here, as the lower percentage could indicate reduced farm profitability or fewer farms operating robustly. However, the overall economic health of agricultural activities might still hold potential, especially considering Montana's broader agricultural landscape. This insight is essential for real estate developers, potential residents, and local business investors evaluating Flathead County's economic viability.
Number of Mortgages by Occupancy Type in Flathead County, MT Over the Last 5 Years in Flathead County
Over the past five years in Flathead County, Montana, principal residences have seen the most significant number of mortgages each year, peaking in 2020 with 9,207 counts, while investment properties and second residences typically trail behind. Notably, the mortgage count for investment properties has consistently dropped since 2020, suggesting a potential decline in investor activity. This trend is essential for potential investors, as decreasing mortgage counts in investment properties might imply shifting market dynamics or changing economic conditions. For appraisers and insurance agents, understanding these trends aids in risk assessment and determining property values. For real estate agents and those interested in moving to Flathead County, observing the high mortgage activity concerning principal residences can provide insights into local demand, housing market health, and community stability.
Economic Outlook
Flathead County, Montana has seen a dramatic growth in average taxable income per tax return, leaping from $51,103.74 in 2013 to $96,220.19 in 2021. This rapid economic upswing, especially from 2020 to 2021, points to potential economic prosperity, which could entice investors and developers. However, the rise in state and local income taxes, from $5,055.33 in 2012 to $16,910.90 in 2021, might affect living costs and ROI considerations. Additionally, the total tax burden per return more than... Read more
Average Taxable Income per Tax Return in Flathead County, MT over the last 9 years
Flathead County, Montana has experienced significant growth in average taxable income per tax return over the last nine years. The total has risen from about $51,103.74 in 2013 to approximately $96,220.19 in 2021. This financial upswing, particularly the sharp increase between 2020 and 2021, suggests potential economic growth and increasing prosperity, making it an attractive spot for investment and property development. For real estate agents and insurance professionals, these trends can indicate a more affluent customer base and an evolving market landscape.
Average State and Local Income Taxes Per Tax Return in Flathead County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Flathead County, Montana has seen a significant and steady increase in state and local income taxes per tax return. Starting at approximately $5,055.33 in 2012, the value has climbed to about $16,910.90 by 2021. This upward trend is notable for those looking to invest or build property in the area, as rising taxes could impact overall living costs and return on investment. For appraisers and insurance agents, understanding this trend might be crucial for accurate property valuations and risk assessments. Real estate agents and potential residents should consider these tax increases when evaluating the long-term financial implications of buying or selling property in the county.
Average Total Tax Liability Per Tax Return in Flathead County, MT Over the Last 10 Years
Over the past decade, Flathead County, Montana, has experienced a significant upward trend in the average total tax liability per tax return. From $8,410.87 in 2012 to $18,030.91 in 2021, the total tax burden has more than doubled. These increases might be indicative of rising incomes, property values, or both, making it a critical factor for potential investors, real estate agents, and current residents to consider when evaluating the financial landscape of the area.
Cost of Living in Flathead County
| Family Size | Housing | Food | Heath Care | Child Care | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 adults 4 children | $1,435 | $1,552 | $2,002 | $1,519 | $1,655 |
| 1 adult 4 children | $1,435 | $1,268 | $1,550 | $1,519 | $1,806 |
| 2 adults 3 children | $1,435 | $1,268 | $1,727 | $1,519 | $1,384 |
| 1 adult 3 children | $1,435 | $1,035 | $1,275 | $1,519 | $1,540 |
| 2 adults 2 children | $1,010 | $1,038 | $1,453 | $1,317 | $1,053 |
| 1 adult 2 children | $1,010 | $775 | $1,001 | $1,317 | $1,087 |
| 2 adults 1 child | $1,010 | $820 | $1,179 | $658 | $910 |
| 1 adult 1 child | $1,010 | $530 | $727 | $658 | $782 |
| 2 adults | $767 | $659 | $904 | $0 | $669 |
| 1 adult | $675 | $360 | $452 | $0 | $584 |
Safety trends & Data
In Flathead County, Montana, from 2020 to 2022, property crime trends have seen varying shifts that might impact property investments. Larceny-theft cases rose from 201 to 326, suggesting a potential upward trend in minor property crimes. Motor vehicle theft and burglary figures fluctuated but spiked to 22 and 24 cases in 2022, respectively. Vandalism remained consistently higher, peaking at 56 cases, indicating ongoing risks. Notably, declines in fraud and embezzlement could reflect stronger... Read more
Property Crime Trends in Flathead County, MT Over the Last 5 Years
Over the past five years in Flathead County, Montana, property crimes have showcased various trends that could influence decisions for investors, property developers, and residents. A notable rise in larceny-theft from 201 to 326 annual cases between 2020 and 2022 may suggest an increasing trend in more minor property crimes. Meanwhile, motor vehicle thefts and burglary figures have vacillated, yet 2022 saw spikes to 22 and 24 cases, respectively. Vandalism remained consistently higher, peaking at 56 cases in some years, which could indicate ongoing risks of property damage. Interestingly, instances of fraud and embezzlement have seen declines, possibly signaling strengthened preventive measures or economic changes. For potential investors and real estate professionals, understanding these nuanced crime trends can aid in making well-informed decisions regarding property investments and risk assessments in Flathead County.
Demographics
Flathead County, Montana, shows a nearly even split between male and female adults, echoing gender balance. The county's population leans older, with significant portions aged 55 and above, suggesting a higher median age. Educational attainment is varied but predominantly at the high school graduate or some college level, potentially implicating workforce skill availability. The racial makeup is predominantly White, with minimal representation from other races, hinting at limited cultural... Read more
Race Distribution in Flathead County, Montana (2022)
Educational Attainment in Flathead County, Montana (2022)
Age Distribution in Flathead County, Montana
Citizen Population in Flathead County, Montana (2022)
Political Trends & Data
Flathead County, Montana tends to lean conservatively, with about 64% of 2020 Presidential Election votes going Republican. Democrats drew around 34%, and Libertarians garnered a minor 2%. This conservative tilt might influence local policies and economic... Read more
Percentage of Votes in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election by Party
Flathead County, Montana trends toward Republican preferences, with nearly 64% of the vote in the 2020 Presidential Election. Democrats garnered about 34%, while Libertarians captured a modest 2%. Other parties did not make a significant impact. It appears that this region may lean conservatively in its political alignments.
63.94% of voters voted for the Republican party in the 2020 Presidential Election
33.83% of voters voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential Election
2.24% of voters voted for the Livertarian party in the 2020 Presidential Election
School Data
In Flathead County, Montana, the student-to-teacher ratio has mostly stuck close to the national average of 14 students per teacher, with slight increases to 15 and 14 students per teacher in 2020 and 2022. These fluctuations might influence potential homeowners, investors, and real estate agents who regard school quality as a key selling point since smaller class sizes are generally believed to lead to better student outcomes. Appraisers and insurance agents may also find these trends relevant... Read more
Student-to-teacher ratio in Flathead County, Montana over the last 10 years
The student-to-teacher ratio in Flathead County, Montana has mostly hovered around the national average of 14 students per teacher over the last decade, with only occasional deviations. Notably, years 2020 and 2022 saw slightly higher ratios at 15 and 14 students per teacher, respectively, indicating a possible increase in class sizes during those years. This fluctuation might matter to potential homeowners, investors, and real estate agents who use school quality as a selling point, given that smaller class sizes are often associated with better student outcomes. Appraisers and insurance agents might also find these trends relevant when assessing property values, as areas with favorable education metrics can be more appealing to families. Anyone building property in the county might use this data to predict future demand for family-sized homes, while current residents and those interested in the area can get a clearer picture of the local education landscape.
