USDA releases new county data on poverty, population, unemployment and education
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released updated county-level data about key economic and demographic trends in Lincoln County.
The report highlights changes in poverty rates, population growth and educational attainment, offering a snapshot of the county's evolving landscape.
Poverty in Lincoln County
According to the latest USDA figures, 15.2 percent of Lincoln County residents live in poverty. Among children aged 0-17, the poverty rate is notably higher at 22.9 percent. These numbers reflect ongoing economic challenges in the county and underscore the need for continued community support and resources to assist struggling families.
The U.S. Census Bureau uses the Official Poverty Measure (OPM) to determine the federal definition of poverty. The poverty threshold is based on income and family size. In 2024, for example, the poverty threshold for a family of four (two adults and two children) is $31,200 per year.
This is higher than the state average of 11.8 percent.
Population Growth
Lincoln County has seen significant population growth in recent years, with an 11.3 percent increase from 2020 to 2023. This is over double Montana’s average growth rate of 4.5 percent for population. The county’s population reached 21,895 in 2023, up from 19,672 in 2020. This growth follows a more stable population trend in previous decades:
2010: 19,681 people
2000: 18,820 people
1990: 17,481 people
The recent population surge may be attributed to an influx of new residents seeking Montana’s rural lifestyle, outdoor recreation opportunities, and lower cost of living compared to urban areas. However, this growth also presents challenges related to infrastructure, housing availability, and local services.
Educational Attainment
The USDA report also provides insights into the educational attainment of Lincoln County residents. The percentage of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher has remained relatively steady, with 18% of residents attaining this level of education between 2019 and 2023. This is slightly lower than the 18.3% recorded from 2008 to 2012 but represents an increase compared to previous decades:
2000: 13.7%
1990: 12.5%
The state average is 28.1 percent.
Unemployment and Income Levels
Unemployment in Lincoln County has fluctuated over the years, reflecting broader economic trends. In 2023, the unemployment rate was 5.2%, a significant improvement from 10% in 2020 during the height of the pandemic.
Other key unemployment rates in recent years include:
2019: 5.7%
2015: 10.3%
While the unemployment rate has decreased, Lincoln County’s household median income remains at $48,432, only 71% of the state median income. This suggests that wages may still lag behind state averages while more residents are employed.
What This Means for Lincoln County
The USDA data paints a complex picture of Lincoln County’s development.
While population growth suggests increasing interest in the region, persistent poverty levels—especially among children—indicate ongoing economic hardship. Additionally, education levels have not seen substantial gains, which could impact the county’s long-term economic prospects.