Lake County, MT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
32,561
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,360/yr
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,468
0.1% year-over-year change

Lake County population

How many people live in Lake County

Lake County is home to 32,561 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Lake County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
32,561
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
16,076
Female
50.6%
16,485
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,076 49.4% 1.2%
Female 16,485 50.6% 1.8%
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 Lake County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.7% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.9% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.7%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
21.9%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
24.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,754 17.7% -2.0%
15 to 24 3,718 11.4% 3.2%
25 to 44 7,118 21.9% 1.9%
45 to 64 8,077 24.8% 0.4%
Over 65 7,894 24.2% 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 Lake County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 65.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.2% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 20.3% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 31,557 96.9% 1.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 676 2.1% 0.1%
Non-citizens 328 1% -6.0%
Racial breakdown
White
65.6%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
20.3%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
12.1%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 21,367 65.6%
Black or African American 71 0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 6,608 20.3%
Asian 218 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 58 0.2%
Two or more races 3,952 12.1%
Other 287 0.9%

Households in Lake County

A peek inside Lake County households

Lake County has 12,576 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.2% are families, while the remaining 35.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,576
3.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,506
Family households
8,070
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,506 35.8% 8.0%
Family households 8,070 64.2% 0.9%
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 Lake County

The housing landscape of Lake County

Lake County's housing consists of 16,468 units, with 78% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% 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 10% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,468
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 12,836 78%
1 unit, attached 328 2%
2 units 373 2.3%
3 or 4 units 532 3.2%
5 to 9 units 352 2.1%
10 to 19 units 162 1%
20 to 49 units 88 0.5%
50 or more units 76 0.5%
Mobile home 1,641 10%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 80 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
205
44.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lake County

In Lake County, the median construction year is 1986. About 9.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,601 9.7% 6.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 601 3.6% 4.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 945 5.7% 1.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,011 6.1% -13.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,969 18% 4.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,977 12% -9.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,030 18.4% 6.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,808 17% -7.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,321 8% 5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 205 1.2% 44.4%
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.

Lake County occupancy rates

Out of the 12,576 occupied housing units in Lake County, 75% are owner-occupied, while 25% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 23.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,576
3.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,138
Owner occupied
9,438
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,138 25% -1.6%
Owner occupied 9,438 75% 5.0%
Unoccupied housing units
23.6%
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.

Lake County housing costs

Housing costs in Lake County come to a median of $975 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $901.

Median housing costs per month
$975/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 Lake County
$901/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 Lake County

Lake County education at a glance

About 32.2% of the population in Lake County went to high school, while 25.2% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 19.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 581 2.3% -1.7%
High school diploma 8,165 32.2% 0.8%
College diploma 6,403 25.2% 1.9%
Associate degree 2,860 11.3% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 4,839 19.1% 3.2%
Graduate degree 2,546 10% 8.2%
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 Lake County

How much people earn in Lake County

The average annual household income in Lake County was $90,243 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,360, reflecting a +2.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lake County
$90,243/year
6.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lake County
$63,360/year
2.2% year-over-year change

Lake County income by age

In Lake County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $63,811. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,359 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,969, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,216 in earnings. Overall, 82.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,969 65.2%
25 - 44 $63,811 2.0%
45 - 64 $86,359 3.6%
Over 65 $50,216 3.7%
Above poverty level
26,398
Below poverty level
5,516
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,398 82.7% 2.2%
Below poverty level 5,516 17.3% -1.2%

Employment in Lake County

Workforce and job types in Lake County

The job market in Lake County is powered by 13,703 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 16.2% run their own businesses, 54.8% are employed by private companies, and 19.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,703
2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
10,760
Blue collar
2,943
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,760 78.5% 1.4%
Blue collar 2,943 21.5% 4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
16.2%
Private companies
54.8%
Governmental workers
19.3%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,218 16.2% -0.9%
Private companies 7,514 54.8% 5.8%
Governmental workers 2,644 19.3% 1.5%
Not for profit companies 1,327 9.7% -10.1%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-8.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lake County stands at 5.7%, 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 Lake County

How people get around in Lake County

In Lake County, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 81.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
5.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,878 81.9% 0.1%
Bus or trolleybus 26 0.2% -10.3%
Bicycle 81 0.6% 1.2%
Walk 380 2.9% -18.8%
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 Lake County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
59821 2,994 999 $66,458 $83,754
59824 1,526 596 $53,382 $80,959
59845 1,223 542 $31,970 $53,586
59855 419 203 $32,688 $26,011
59860 11,897 4,899 $62,047 $86,164
59863 146 78 $78,922 $78,844
59864 7,301 2,581 $61,978 $89,137
59865 3,635 1,268 $56,473 $74,895
59910 692 291 $99,886 $116,575
59911 9,493 4,077 $83,019 $112,604

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FAQs about Lake County demographics 

What is the total population of Lake County?

Lake County has a total population of 32,561 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lake County?

The gender ratio in Lake County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (16,076 residents)
  • 50.6% females (16,485 residents)

What is the median age in Lake County?

The median age in Lake County is 44.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Lake County?

The age distribution in Lake County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.7% (5,754 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (3,718 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.9% (7,118 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (8,077 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.2% (7,894 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lake County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lake County is as follows:
  • White: 65.6% (21,367 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (71 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 20.3% (6,608 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (218 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (58 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.1% (3,952 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (287 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Lake County.

How many housing units are there in Lake County?

There are 16,468 housing units in Lake County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lake County has a total of 12,576 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lake County?

Lake County has a median household income of $63,360, representing a +2.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Lake County, with a workforce of 13,703 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.5% (10,760 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.5% (2,943 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 16.2% (2,218 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.8% (7,514 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.3% (2,644 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (1,327 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