Deer Lodge County, MT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,597
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,527/yr
16.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,540
0.6% year-over-year change

Deer Lodge County population

How many people live in Deer Lodge County

Deer Lodge County is home to 9,597 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.3% of Deer Lodge County locals are male, and 46.7% are female.

Total population
9,597
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.3%
5,114
Female
46.7%
4,483
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,114 53.3% 1.1%
Female 4,483 46.7% 0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Deer Lodge County is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 9.7% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.3% of the population, while another 30.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
9.7%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
23.3%
45 to 64
30.1%
Over 65
26.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 928 9.7% -0.3%
15 to 24 1,020 10.6% 2.1%
25 to 44 2,233 23.3% -5.1%
45 to 64 2,888 30.1% 2.9%
Over 65 2,528 26.3% 4.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Deer Lodge County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.8% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. Another 2.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,464 98.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 115 1.2% 36.9%
Non-citizens 18 0.2% -14.3%
Racial breakdown
White
89.8%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.1%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 8,619 89.8%
Black or African American 34 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 198 2.1%
Asian 23 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 8 0.1%
Two or more races 647 6.7%
Other 68 0.7%

Households in Deer Lodge County

A peek inside Deer Lodge County households

Deer Lodge County has 4,473 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.7% are families, while the remaining 48.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,473
-1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,162
Family households
2,311
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,162 48.3% -5.3%
Family households 2,311 51.7% 1.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Deer Lodge County

The housing landscape of Deer Lodge County

Deer Lodge County's housing consists of 5,540 units, with 77.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 5.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,540
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,294 77.5%
1 unit, attached 106 1.9%
2 units 291 5.2%
3 or 4 units 175 3.2%
5 to 9 units 65 1.2%
10 to 19 units 150 2.7%
20 to 49 units 39 0.7%
50 or more units 124 2.2%
Mobile home 295 5.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
72
323.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Deer Lodge County

In Deer Lodge County, the median construction year is 1954. About 35% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,936 35% -2.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 407 7.4% 0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,025 18.5% 12.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 349 6.3% 3.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 612 11% 4.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 238 4.3% -23.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 442 8% -5.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 290 5.2% -4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 169 3% -5.6%
Built in 2020 or later 72 1.3% 323.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Deer Lodge County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,473 occupied housing units in Deer Lodge County, 73% are owner-occupied, while 27% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 19.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,473
-1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,206
Owner occupied
3,267
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,206 27% -13.4%
Owner occupied 3,267 73% 3.1%
Unoccupied housing units
19.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Deer Lodge County housing costs

Housing costs in Deer Lodge County come to a median of $781 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $696.

Median housing costs per month
$781/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Deer Lodge County
$696/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Deer Lodge County

Deer Lodge County education at a glance

About 45% of the population in Deer Lodge County went to high school, while 25.7% pursued college studies. Another 5.8% earned an associate degree and 14.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 134 1.6% -8.2%
High school diploma 3,797 45% -1.8%
College diploma 2,173 25.7% 1.1%
Associate degree 491 5.8% 3.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,194 14.1% 1.4%
Graduate degree 653 7.7% 26.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Deer Lodge County

How much people earn in Deer Lodge County

The average annual household income in Deer Lodge County was $72,037 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +12.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,527, reflecting a +16.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Deer Lodge County
$72,037/year
12.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Deer Lodge County
$57,527/year
16.1% year-over-year change

Deer Lodge County income by age

In Deer Lodge County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,856. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $52,303 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $50,441, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,986 in earnings. Overall, 83.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $50,441 4.6%
25 - 44 $81,856 20.1%
45 - 64 $52,303 9.4%
Over 65 $46,986 10.1%
Above poverty level
7,624
Below poverty level
1,497
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,624 83.6% 3.6%
Below poverty level 1,497 16.4% -9.2%

Employment in Deer Lodge County

Workforce and job types in Deer Lodge County

The job market in Deer Lodge County is powered by 4,543 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.1% run their own businesses, 49.4% are employed by private companies, and 23.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,543
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
3,615
Blue collar
928
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,615 79.6% 5.6%
Blue collar 928 20.4% -9.9%
Employer type
Self employees
13.1%
Private companies
49.4%
Governmental workers
23.8%
Not for profit companies
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 594 13.1% 3.7%
Private companies 2,245 49.4% -9.1%
Governmental workers 1,083 23.8% 13.8%
Not for profit companies 621 13.7% 35.6%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-30.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Deer Lodge County stands at 3.4%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Deer Lodge County

How people get around in Deer Lodge County

In Deer Lodge County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
-12.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,667 81.4% 2.1%
Motorcycle 5 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 11 0.2% N/A
Walk 282 6.3% 12.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Deer Lodge County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
59711 9,529 4,567 $58,157 $72,778
59756 313 23 $0 $0
59762 231 117 $61,125 $70,632

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FAQs about Deer Lodge County demographics 

What is the total population of Deer Lodge County?

Deer Lodge County has a total population of 9,597 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Deer Lodge County?

The gender ratio in Deer Lodge County is as follows:
  • 53.3% males (5,114 residents)
  • 46.7% females (4,483 residents)

What is the median age in Deer Lodge County?

The median age in Deer Lodge County is 49.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Deer Lodge County?

The age distribution in Deer Lodge County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 9.7% (928 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (1,020 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.3% (2,233 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30.1% (2,888 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.3% (2,528 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Deer Lodge County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Deer Lodge County is as follows:
  • White: 89.8% (8,619 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (34 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.1% (198 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (23 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (8 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (647 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (68 residents)

What percentage of the population in Deer Lodge County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Deer Lodge County.

How many housing units are there in Deer Lodge County?

There are 5,540 housing units in Deer Lodge County, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Deer Lodge County and what is the average household size?

Deer Lodge County has a total of 4,473 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Deer Lodge County?

Deer Lodge County has a median household income of $57,527, representing a +16.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Deer Lodge County?

The employment rate is 96.6% in Deer Lodge County, with a workforce of 4,543 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.6% (3,615 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.4% (928 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.1% (594 residents)
  • Private companies: 49.4% (2,245 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.8% (1,083 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.7% (621 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025