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

Total population
447
11.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,208/yr
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
311
5.4% year-over-year change

Petroleum County population

How many people live in Petroleum County

Petroleum County is home to 447 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.3% of Petroleum County locals are male, and 44.7% are female.

Total population
447
11.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.3%
247
Female
44.7%
200
Value Percent YoY change
Male 247 55.3% 8.8%
Female 200 44.7% 14.9%
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 Petroleum County is 52, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.1% are children under 15, then 6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 19% of the population, while another 32.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 28.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
51.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.1%
15 to 24
6%
25 to 44
19%
45 to 64
32.7%
Over 65
28.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 63 14.1% 23.5%
15 to 24 27 6% 22.7%
25 to 44 85 19% 25.0%
45 to 64 146 32.7% -1.4%
Over 65 126 28.2% 12.5%
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 Petroleum County, 98.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 441 98.7% 11.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6 1.3% 20.0%
Racial breakdown
White
98.9%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
0%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 442 98.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0.4%
Asian 3 0.7%

Households in Petroleum County

A peek inside Petroleum County households

Petroleum County has 221 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.5% are families, while the remaining 38.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
221
10.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
85
Family households
136
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 85 38.5% 18.1%
Family households 136 61.5% 6.2%
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 Petroleum County

The housing landscape of Petroleum County

Petroleum County's housing consists of 311 units, with 76.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 21.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
311
5.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 238 76.5%
1 unit, attached 2 0.6%
Mobile home 66 21.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 1.6%
Homes built since 2020
5
25.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Petroleum County

In Petroleum County, the median construction year is 1983. About 16.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 52 16.7% -20.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 10 3.2% -9.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 28 9% 21.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16 5.1% -5.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 38 12.2% 0.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 46 14.8% -13.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 66 21.2% 22.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 23 7.4% 43.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 27 8.7% 92.9%
Built in 2020 or later 5 1.6% 25.0%
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.

Petroleum County occupancy rates

Out of the 221 occupied housing units in Petroleum County, 72.8% are owner-occupied, while 27.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 28.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
221
10.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
60
Owner occupied
161
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 60 27.2% 30.4%
Owner occupied 161 72.8% 4.5%
Unoccupied housing units
28.9%
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.

Petroleum County housing costs

Housing costs in Petroleum County come to a median of $677 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $800.

Median housing costs per month
$677/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 Petroleum County
$800/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 Petroleum County

Petroleum County education at a glance

About 44.4% of the population in Petroleum County went to high school, while 21.3% pursued college studies. Another 5.5% earned an associate degree and 18.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
High school diploma 169 44.4% 4.3%
College diploma 81 21.3% 1.2%
Associate degree 21 5.5% 23.5%
Bachelor's degree 72 18.9% 24.1%
Graduate degree 38 10% 22.6%
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 Petroleum County

How much people earn in Petroleum County

The average annual household income in Petroleum County was $78,436 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,208, reflecting a +1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Petroleum County
$78,436/year
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Petroleum County
$60,208/year
1.5% year-over-year change

Petroleum County income by age

In Petroleum County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $115,250. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,083 overall. Overall, 91.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $115,250 34.6%
45 - 64 $72,083 0.0%
Over 65 $48,750 10.6%
Above poverty level
400
Below poverty level
36
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 400 91.7% 9.6%
Below poverty level 36 8.3% 38.5%

Employment in Petroleum County

Workforce and job types in Petroleum County

The job market in Petroleum County is powered by 235 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 18.3% run their own businesses, 42.6% are employed by private companies, and 34.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
235
6.3% year-over-year change
White collar
150
Blue collar
85
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 150 63.8% 11.9%
Blue collar 85 36.2% -2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
18.3%
Private companies
42.6%
Governmental workers
34.9%
Not for profit companies
4.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 43 18.3% -4.4%
Private companies 100 42.6% 0.0%
Governmental workers 82 34.9% 22.4%
Not for profit companies 10 4.3% 11.1%

Transportation in Petroleum County

How people get around in Petroleum County

In Petroleum County, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 60.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 24.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
14.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 142 60.4% 1.4%
Walk 57 24.3% 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 Petroleum County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
59032 409 214 $42,000 $52,049
59087 395 201 $62,813 $80,464

Explore more communities

FAQs about Petroleum County demographics 

What is the total population of Petroleum County?

Petroleum County has a total population of 447 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 +11.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Petroleum County?

The gender ratio in Petroleum County is as follows:
  • 55.3% males (247 residents)
  • 44.7% females (200 residents)

What is the median age in Petroleum County?

The median age in Petroleum County is 51.6.

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

The age distribution in Petroleum County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.1% (63 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 6% (27 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 19% (85 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 32.7% (146 residents)
  • Over 65: 28.2% (126 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Petroleum County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Petroleum County is as follows:
  • White: 98.9% (442 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (3 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 0% (0 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.7% of the population in Petroleum County.

How many housing units are there in Petroleum County?

There are 311 housing units in Petroleum County, reflecting a +5.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Petroleum County has a total of 221 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Petroleum County?

Petroleum County has a median household income of $60,208, representing a +1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Petroleum County?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.8% (150 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.2% (85 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 18.3% (43 residents)
  • Private companies: 42.6% (100 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 34.9% (82 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.3% (10 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