Billings Public RecordsNorth Dakota

As of the 2020 Census, Billings County, North Dakota, had a population of 945. The median age was about 46.9 years, indicating an older population. Males made up approximately 53%, while females were 47%. The county was predominantly White (over 96%), with small percentages of American Indian (about 1.5%), and Hispanic or Latino (around 1.2%). Other racial and ethnic groups each comprised less than 1% of the population.

Billings County, ND, had 684 registered voters as of 2022. Elections here include local, state, and federal races, with major contests in presidential and midterm years. In the 2020 presidential election, about 85% voted Republican and 13% Democrat. Voting takes place mainly at the Billings County Courthouse in Medora. Issues often center on land use and energy development. The county is administered by an elected auditor and commission. The Republican Party dominates, with few Democratic candidates running. Voter turnout typically exceeds 60%.

Billings County, ND, features a high homeownership rate at approximately 73%, with median home values around $260,000 as of 2023. Rental options are limited, with median rents near $900/month. The market shows stable to modest growth in property values. Housing consists mostly of single-family homes and ranches, with few multi-family units; popular areas include Medora and Fairfield. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.77% of assessed value, below the national average. The county's rural character results in low-density neighborhoods, appealing to those seeking space and affordability.

Billings County, ND, had an employment rate of approximately 66% as of 2022. The largest industry is agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting (26%), followed by mining, quarrying, and oil & gas extraction (24%). Construction and education services each account for about 10% of jobs. Management, business, and science occupations comprise 32% of the workforce, with natural resources jobs close behind. Around 80% of workers commute by car, averaging a 26-minute commute, and many are employed outside the county, mainly in neighboring Stark and Dunn counties.

Billings County, ND, has limited educational institutions, with only one public school district—Billings County School District—serving pre-K to 8th grade (enrollment around 80 students; student-teacher ratio about 8:1). High school students often attend schools in neighboring counties. About 92% of adults have a high school diploma, while 31% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are high, and programs focus on rural STEM and agriculture. While no colleges are located in-county, adult education and GED prep are accessible online or in nearby Dickinson. Test scores generally meet state averages.

Billings County, ND, reports one of the lowest crime rates in the state. According to recent statistics, the violent crime rate is approximately 0.4 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 2.8 per 1,000—well below national averages. In 2022, only a handful of incidents were recorded, mostly minor thefts. The county sheriff’s office maintains a strong presence and encourages community crime reporting, ensuring prompt response and investigation. Overall, Billings County is considered very safe, contributing to a strong sense of security among its roughly 900 residents.