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{{Short description|County in Montana, United States}}
{{Short description|County in Montana, United States}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2019}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2024}}
{{Infobox U.S. county
{{Infobox U.S. county
| county = Flathead County
| county = Flathead County
| state = Montana
| state = Montana
| seal = Flathead County mt seal.jpg
| seal = Flathead County mt seal.jpg
| founded year = 1893
| founded year = 1893
| founded date =
| founded date =
| seat wl = Kalispell
| seat wl = Kalispell
| largest city wl = Kalispell
| largest city wl = Kalispell
| area_total_sq_mi = 5256
| area_total_sq_mi = 5256
| area_land_sq_mi = 5088
| area_land_sq_mi = 5088
| area_water_sq_mi = 169
| area_water_sq_mi = 169
| area percentage = 3.2
| area percentage = 3.2
| population_as_of = 2020
| population_as_of = 2020
| population_total = 104357
| population_total = 104357
| pop_est_as_of = 2021
| pop_est_as_of = 2022
| population_est = 108454 {{increase}}
| population_est = 111814 {{increase}}
| population_density_sq_mi = auto
| population_density_sq_mi = auto
| time zone = Mountain
| time zone = Mountain
| web = flathead.mt.gov
| web = flathead.mt.gov
| ex image = Flathead County Courthouse July 2020.jpg
| ex image = Flathead County Courthouse July 2020.jpg
| ex image cap = Flathead County Courthouse in Kalispell
| ex image cap = Flathead County Courthouse in Kalispell
| district = At-large
| district = 1st
| named for = [[Flathead Indians]]
| named for = [[Flathead Indians]]
| footnotes =
| footnotes =
* Montana county number 07
* Montana county number 07
}}
}}


'''Flathead County''' is in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Montana]]. At the [[2020 United States census|2020 census]], its population was 104,357,<ref name=QF>{{cite web|title=State & County QuickFacts|url=https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/flatheadcountymontana/PST045221|publisher=U.S. Census Bureau|access-date=February 13, 2022}}</ref> making it the state's fourth most populous county. Its [[county seat]] is [[Kalispell, Montana|Kalispell]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=June 7, 2011|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110531210815/http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|archive-date=May 31, 2011}}</ref> Its numerical designation (used in the issuance of [[license plate]]s) is 7. Its northern border is on the state's north border, making it contiguous with the [[Canada–United States border|Canada–US border]], facing [[British Columbia]].
'''Flathead County''' is a [[County (United States)|county]] located in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Montana]]. At the [[2020 United States census|2020 census]], its population was 104,357,<ref name="QF">{{cite web|title=State & County QuickFacts |url=https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/flatheadcountymontana/PST045222 |publisher=United States Census Bureau |access-date=April 5, 2023}}</ref> making it the state's fourth most populous county. Its [[county seat]] is [[Kalispell, Montana|Kalispell]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=June 7, 2011|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110531210815/http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|archive-date=May 31, 2011}}</ref> Its numerical designation (used in the issuance of [[Vehicle registration plates of Montana|license plate]]s) is 7. Its northern border is on the state's north border, making it contiguous with the [[Canada–United States border|Canada–US border]], facing [[British Columbia]].


Flathead County comprises the Kalispell, Montana [[Micropolitan Statistical Area]], with neighboring Lake County following soon after.
Flathead County comprises the Kalispell, Montana [[Micropolitan Statistical Area]], with neighboring Lake County following soon after.
Line 36: Line 36:


==Geography==
==Geography==
The county includes much of [[Flathead Lake]], the [[Flathead Valley]], and the [[Flathead River]]. These natural treasures, originated by glaciers, are named for the unique geological formation of a broad flat valley surrounded by mountains at the head of a deep glacial lake. Several tribes have long used the Flathead Lake, and the [[Bitterroot Salish]], [[Kootenai]], and [[Pend d'Oreilles]] tribes are represented on the [[Flathead Reservation]]. The western part of [[Glacier National Park (U.S.)|Glacier National Park]] is located in the county.
The county includes much of [[Flathead Lake]], the [[Flathead Valley]], and the [[Flathead River]]. These natural treasures were created by glacial activity which ended approximately 10,000 years ago. The Flathead Valley is the southern extension of a prominent valley called the Rockey Mountain Trench, which runs from the Yukon Territory in Canada as far south as Flathead Lake. The Trench in northwestern Montana was created by subsidence along a major extensional fault, which continues today. After the valley formed, glaciers flowing down the Trench from British Columbia, and into it from the surrounding mountain ranges left a flat valley floor and dammed the Flathead River drainage to create Flathead Lake. Several tribes have long used the Flathead Lake, and the [[Bitterroot Salish]], [[Kootenai]], and [[Pend d'Oreilles]] tribes are represented on the [[Flathead Reservation]]. The western part of [[Glacier National Park (U.S.)|Glacier National Park]] is located in the county.


According to the [[United States Census Bureau]], the county has a total area of {{convert|5256|sqmi}}, of which {{convert|5088|sqmi}} is land and {{convert|169|sqmi}} (3.2%) is water.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/geo/maps-data/data/docs/gazetteer/counties_list_30.txt|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205145322/http://www.census.gov/geo/maps-data/data/docs/gazetteer/counties_list_30.txt|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 5, 2014|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014|date=August 22, 2012|title=2010 Census Gazetteer Files}}</ref> It is the third-largest county in Montana by land area and second-largest by total area.
According to the [[United States Census Bureau]], the county has a total area of {{convert|5256|sqmi}}, of which {{convert|5088|sqmi}} is land and {{convert|169|sqmi}} (3.2%) is water.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/geo/maps-data/data/docs/gazetteer/counties_list_30.txt|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205145322/http://www.census.gov/geo/maps-data/data/docs/gazetteer/counties_list_30.txt|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 5, 2014|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014|date=August 22, 2012|title=2010 Census Gazetteer Files}}</ref> It is the third-largest county in Montana by land area and second-largest by total area.


===Ecology===
===Ecology===
Wildlife includes bobcats, black bears, coyotes, deer, elk, grizzly bears, lynx, mountain lions, and wolves.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Long|first=Ben|date=March 6, 2020|title=Finding a Middle Ground on Wolves and Wolf Management|url=https://www.outdoorlife.com/story/hunting/finding-a-middle-ground-on-wolves-and-wolf-management/|url-status=live|access-date=August 4, 2021|website=Outdoor Life|language=en-US}}</ref>
Wildlife includes bobcats, black bears, coyotes, deer, elk, grizzly bears, lynx, mountain lions, and wolves.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Long|first=Ben|date=March 6, 2020|title=Finding a Middle Ground on Wolves and Wolf Management|url=https://www.outdoorlife.com/story/hunting/finding-a-middle-ground-on-wolves-and-wolf-management/|access-date=August 4, 2021|website=Outdoor Life|language=en-US}}</ref>


===National protected areas===
===National protected areas===
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|2010= 90928
|2010= 90928
|2020= 104357
|2020= 104357
|estyear=2021
|estyear=2022
|estimate=108454
|estimate=111814
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2021">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/popest/2020s-counties-total.html|title=Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Counties: April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2021|access-date=June 26, 2022}}</ref>
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2022">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/popest/2020s-counties-total.html|title=Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Counties: April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2022|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=April 5, 2023}}</ref>
|align-fn=center
|align-fn=center
|footnote=US Decennial Census<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=US Decennial Census|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014}}</ref><br/>1790–1960<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mapserver.lib.virginia.edu|title=Historical Census Browser|publisher=University of Virginia Library|access-date=November 28, 2014}}</ref> 1900–1990<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/cencounts/mt190090.txt|title=Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014}}</ref><br/>1990–2000<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf|title=Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014}}</ref> 2010–2020<ref name=QF/>
|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=U.S. Decennial Census|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014}}</ref><br/>1790–1960<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mapserver.lib.virginia.edu/|title=Historical Census Browser|publisher=University of Virginia Library|access-date=November 28, 2014|archive-date=August 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120811110448/http://mapserver.lib.virginia.edu/|url-status=dead}}</ref> 1900–1990<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/cencounts/mt190090.txt|title=Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014}}</ref><br/>1990–2000<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100327165705/http://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf |archive-date=March 27, 2010 |url-status=live|title=Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=November 28, 2014}}</ref> 2010–2020<ref name="QF"/>
}}
}}


===2000 census===
===2020 census===
As of the [[2020 United States census|2020 census]], there were 104,357 people living in the county.{{citation needed|date=January 2024}}
As of the [[2000 United States census]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=January 31, 2008|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref> there were 74,471 people, 29,588 households, and 20,415 families living in the county. The [[population density]] was 15 people per square mile (6/km<sup>2</sup>). There were 34,773 housing units at an average density of 7 per square mile (3/km<sup>2</sup>). The racial makeup of the county was 96.26% [[Race (United States Census)|White]], 0.15% [[Race (United States Census)|Black]] or [[Race (United States Census)|African American]], 1.15% [[Race (United States Census)|Native American]], 0.46% [[Race (United States Census)|Asian]], 0.06% [[Race (United States Census)|Pacific Islander]], 0.41% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 1.50% from two or more races. 1.42% of the population were [[Race (United States Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Race (United States Census)|Latino]] of any race. 21.7% were of German, 11.3% Irish, 11.0% Norwegian, 10.3% English and 9.1% United States or American ancestry.

There were 29,588 households, out of which 32.50% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.90% were married couples living together, 8.30% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.00% were non-families. 25.20% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.90% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.48, and the average family size was 2.97.

The county population contained 25.90% under 18, 7.40% from 18 to 24, 27.40% from 25 to 44, 26.40% from 45 to 64, and 13.00% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.30 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.10 males.

The median income for a household in the county was $34,466, and the median income for a family was $40,702. Males had a median income of $31,908 versus $20,619 for females. The [[per capita income]] for the county was $18,112. About 9.40% of families and 13.00% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 16.70% of those under age 18 and 8.60% of those age 65 or over.


===2010 census===
===2010 census===
[[File:N Fork.jpg|thumb|upright|The North Fork Road in Flathead County.]]
[[File:N Fork.jpg|thumb|upright|The North Fork Road in Flathead County.]]
As of the [[2010 United States census]], there were 90,928 people, 37,504 households, and 24,817 families living in the county.<ref name=dp1>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_DP/DPDP1/0500000US30029|title=Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 Demographic Profile Data|access-date=January 9, 2016|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213020507/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_DP/DPDP1/0500000US30029|archive-date=February 13, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> The population density was {{convert|17.9|PD/sqmi}}. There were 46,963 housing units at an average density of {{convert|9.2|/sqmi}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/GCTPH1.CY07/0500000US30029|access-date=January 9, 2016|title=Population, Housing Units, Area, and Density: 2010 – County|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213185037/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/GCTPH1.CY07/0500000US30029|archive-date=February 13, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> The racial makeup of the county was 95.5% white, 1.1% American Indian, 0.6% Asian, 0.2% black or African American, 0.1% Pacific islander, 0.4% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 2.3% of the population.<ref name=dp1/> In terms of ancestry, 28.1% were [[Germans|German]], 15.0% were [[English people|English]], 14.8% were [[Irish people|Irish]], 9.3% were [[Norwegians|Norwegian]], and 4.6% were [[Americans|American]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP02/0500000US30029|title=Selected Social Characteristics in the US – 2006–2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates|access-date=January 9, 2016|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213034846/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP02/0500000US30029|archive-date=February 13, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>
As of the [[2010 United States census|2010 census]], there were 90,928 people, 37,504 households, and 24,817 families living in the county. The population density was {{convert|17.9|PD/sqmi}}. There were 46,963 housing units at an average density of {{convert|9.2|/sqmi}}. The racial makeup of the county was 95.5% white, 1.1% American Indian, 0.6% Asian, 0.2% black or African American, 0.1% Pacific islander, 0.4% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 2.3% of the population. In terms of ancestry, 28.1% were [[Germans|German]], 15.0% were [[English people|English]], 14.8% were [[Irish people|Irish]], 9.3% were [[Norwegians|Norwegian]], and 4.6% were [[Americans|American]].


Of the 37,504 households, 29.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.8% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 33.8% were non-families, and 27.2% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.40, and the average family size was 2.91. The median age was 41.2 years.<ref name=dp1/>
Of the 37,504 households, 29.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.8% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 33.8% were non-families, and 27.2% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.40, and the average family size was 2.91. The median age was 41.2 years.


The median income for a household in the county was $44,998, and the median income for a family was $53,940. Males had a median income of $39,767 versus $28,026 for females. The per capita income for the county was $24,721. About 8.4% of families and 11.7% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 17.8% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP03/0500000US30029|title=Selected Economic Characteristics – 2006–2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates|access-date=January 9, 2016|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213022924/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP03/0500000US30029|archive-date=February 13, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>
The median income for a household in the county was $44,998, and the median income for a family was $53,940. Males had a median income of $39,767 versus $28,026 for females. The per capita income for the county was $24,721. About 8.4% of families and 11.7% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 17.8% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over.


==Politics==
==Politics==
Along with [[Yellowstone County, Montana|Yellowstone County]] (home to Billings), Flathead County is one of Montana's more populous counties that leans heavily Republican. It has last voted Democratic in 1964, and has voted over 60% Republican in every presidential election since 1996 save 2008.
Along with [[Yellowstone County, Montana|Yellowstone County]] (home to Billings), Flathead County is one of Montana's more populous counties that leans heavily Republican. It has last voted Democratic in 1964, and has voted over 60% Republican in every presidential election since 1996 save 2008.


{{PresHead|place=Flathead County, Montana|whig=no|source1=<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uselectionatlas.org/RESULTS|title=Atlas of US Presidential Elections|last=Leip|first=David|website=uselectionatlas.org|access-date=April 2, 2018}}</ref>|source2=<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ourcampaigns.com/PresidentList.html|title=Our Campaigns - U.S. President|access-date=January 22, 2021}}</ref>|source3=<ref>The leading "other" candidate, [[Progressive Party (United States, 1924–34)|Progressive]] [[Robert M. La Follette|Bob La Follette]], received 2,537 votes, while the [[Workers Party of America|Workers Party]] candidate [[William Z. Foster|William Foster]] received 5 votes.</ref>}}
{{PresHead|place=Flathead County, Montana|source1=<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uselectionatlas.org/RESULTS|title=Atlas of US Presidential Elections|last=Leip|first=David|website=uselectionatlas.org|access-date=April 2, 2018}}</ref>|source2=<ref>The leading "other" candidate, [[Progressive Party (United States, 1924–34)|Progressive]] [[Robert M. La Follette|Bob La Follette]], received 2,537 votes, while the [[Workers Party of America|Workers Party]] candidate [[William Z. Foster|William Foster]] received 5 votes.</ref>}}
<!-- PresRow should be {{PresRow|Year|Winning party|GOP/Whig vote #|Dem vote #|3rd party vote #|State}} -->
<!-- PresRow should be {{PresRow|Year|Winning party|GOP vote #|Dem vote #|3rd party vote #|State}} -->
{{PresRow|2024|Republican|41,390|20,062|1,689|Montana}}
{{PresRow|2020|Republican|38,321|20,274|1,343|Montana}}
{{PresRow|2020|Republican|38,321|20,274|1,343|Montana}}
{{PresRow|2016|Republican|30,240|13,293|3,963|Montana}}
{{PresRow|2016|Republican|30,240|13,293|3,963|Montana}}
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* [[Lincoln County, Montana|Lincoln County]] – west
* [[Lincoln County, Montana|Lincoln County]] – west
{{div col end}}
{{div col end}}

==Education==
High school districts include:<ref name=SDlist2020>{{cite web|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st30_mt/schooldistrict_maps/c30029_flathead/DC20SD_C30029.pdf|title=2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Flathead County, MT|publisher=[[U.S. Census Bureau]]|page=3 (PDF p. 4/5)|access-date=March 13, 2024}} - [https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st30_mt/schooldistrict_maps/c30029_flathead/DC20SD_C30029_SD2MS.txt Text list]</ref>
* [[Bigfork High School District]]
* [[Columbia Falls High School District]]
* [[Flathead High School District]]
* [[Whitefish High School District]]

Elementary school districts include:<ref name=SDlist2020/>
* [[Bigfork Elementary School District]]
* [[Cayuse Prairie Elementary School District]]
* [[Columbia Falls Elementary School District]]
* [[Creston Elementary School District]]
* [[Deer Park Elementary School District]]
* [[Fair-Mont-Egan Elementary School District]]
* [[Evergreen Elementary School District (Montana)|Evergreen Elementary School District]]
* [[Helena Flats Elementary School District]]
* [[Kalispell Elementary School District]]
* [[Kila Elementary School District]]
* [[Marion Elementary School District]]
* [[Olney-Bissell Elementary School District]]
* [[Pleasant Valley Elementary School District (Montana)|Pleasant Valley Elementary School District]]
* [[Smith Valley Elementary School District]]
* [[Somers Elementary School District]]
* [[Swan River Elementary School District]]
* [[West Glacier Elementary School District]]
* [[West Valley Elementary School District]]
* [[Whitefish Elementary School District]]

[[Flathead Valley Community College]] is a tertiary institution.


==Notable people==
==Notable people==
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* [[Phil Jackson]], [[NBA]] coach and player
* [[Phil Jackson]], [[NBA]] coach and player
* [[Dorothy M. Johnson]], writer of Westerns
* [[Dorothy M. Johnson]], writer of Westerns
* [[Braxton Mitchell]], Montana state representative
* [[Maury Povich]], talk show host known for his TV show ''[[Maury (TV series)|Maury]]''
* [[Maury Povich]], talk show host known for his TV show ''[[Maury (TV series)|Maury]]''
* [[Keith Regier]], Montana state senator
* [[Keith Regier]], Montana state senator
* [[Alice Ritzman]], [[LPGA]] golf professional
* [[Alice Ritzman]], [[LPGA]] golf professional
* [[Michelle Williams (actress)|Michelle Williams]], actress who achieved recognition for her leading role in the TV teen drama series ''[[Dawson's Creek]]''
* [[Michelle Williams (actress)|Michelle Williams]], actress
*[[Derek Skees]], Montana state representative
*[[Derek Skees]], Montana state representative


==In popular culture==
==In popular culture==
[[Miami Herald]] columnist [[Dave Barry]] frequently cites the police blotter of the Flathead Beacon in Flathead County as a source of humorous material. It is written in a spare, [[surrealist]] style by local man Justin Franz, following the pattern set by earlier writer Christie Burns.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}
[[Miami Herald]] columnist [[Dave Barry]] frequently cites the police blotter of the Flathead Beacon in Flathead County as a source of humorous material. It is written in a spare, [[surrealist]] style by local man Micah Drew, following the pattern set by earlier writers Christie Burns and Justin Franz.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}


==See also==
==See also==

Latest revision as of 03:07, 10 December 2024

Flathead County
County
Flathead County Courthouse in Kalispell
Flathead County Courthouse in Kalispell
Official seal of Flathead County
Seal
Map of Montana highlighting Flathead County
Location within the U.S. state of Montana
Map of the United States highlighting Montana
Montana's location within the U.S.
Coordinates: 48°17′N 114°01′W / 48.29°N 114.02°W / 48.29; -114.02
Country United States
State Montana
Founded1893
Named forFlathead Indians
SeatKalispell
Largest cityKalispell
Area
 • Total
5,256 sq mi (13,610 km2)
 • Land5,088 sq mi (13,180 km2)
 • Water169 sq mi (440 km2)  3.2%
Population
 (2020)
 • Total
104,357
 • Estimate 
(2022)
111,814 Increase
 • Density20/sq mi (7.7/km2)
Time zoneUTC−7 (Mountain)
 • Summer (DST)UTC−6 (MDT)
Congressional district1st
Websiteflathead.mt.gov
  • Montana county number 07

Flathead County is a county located in the U.S. state of Montana. At the 2020 census, its population was 104,357,[1] making it the state's fourth most populous county. Its county seat is Kalispell.[2] Its numerical designation (used in the issuance of license plates) is 7. Its northern border is on the state's north border, making it contiguous with the Canada–US border, facing British Columbia.

Flathead County comprises the Kalispell, Montana Micropolitan Statistical Area, with neighboring Lake County following soon after.

History

[edit]

Flathead County was founded in 1893. Some sources cite the supposed practice of the Salish tribe flattening infants' heads as the origin of the name Flathead,[3] but there is no record of Salish Indians ever having that appearance.

Geography

[edit]

The county includes much of Flathead Lake, the Flathead Valley, and the Flathead River. These natural treasures were created by glacial activity which ended approximately 10,000 years ago. The Flathead Valley is the southern extension of a prominent valley called the Rockey Mountain Trench, which runs from the Yukon Territory in Canada as far south as Flathead Lake. The Trench in northwestern Montana was created by subsidence along a major extensional fault, which continues today. After the valley formed, glaciers flowing down the Trench from British Columbia, and into it from the surrounding mountain ranges left a flat valley floor and dammed the Flathead River drainage to create Flathead Lake. Several tribes have long used the Flathead Lake, and the Bitterroot Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d'Oreilles tribes are represented on the Flathead Reservation. The western part of Glacier National Park is located in the county.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 5,256 square miles (13,610 km2), of which 5,088 square miles (13,180 km2) is land and 169 square miles (440 km2) (3.2%) is water.[4] It is the third-largest county in Montana by land area and second-largest by total area.

Ecology

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Wildlife includes bobcats, black bears, coyotes, deer, elk, grizzly bears, lynx, mountain lions, and wolves.[5]

National protected areas

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Demographics

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Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
19009,375—
191014,07950.2%
192021,70554.2%
193019,200−11.5%
194024,27126.4%
195031,49529.8%
196032,9654.7%
197039,46019.7%
198051,96631.7%
199059,21814.0%
200074,47125.8%
201090,92822.1%
2020104,35714.8%
2022 (est.)111,814[6]7.1%
U.S. Decennial Census[7]
1790–1960[8] 1900–1990[9]
1990–2000[10] 2010–2020[1]

2020 census

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As of the 2020 census, there were 104,357 people living in the county.[citation needed]

2010 census

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The North Fork Road in Flathead County.

As of the 2010 census, there were 90,928 people, 37,504 households, and 24,817 families living in the county. The population density was 17.9 inhabitants per square mile (6.9/km2). There were 46,963 housing units at an average density of 9.2 per square mile (3.6/km2). The racial makeup of the county was 95.5% white, 1.1% American Indian, 0.6% Asian, 0.2% black or African American, 0.1% Pacific islander, 0.4% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 2.3% of the population. In terms of ancestry, 28.1% were German, 15.0% were English, 14.8% were Irish, 9.3% were Norwegian, and 4.6% were American.

Of the 37,504 households, 29.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.8% were married couples living together, 8.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 33.8% were non-families, and 27.2% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.40, and the average family size was 2.91. The median age was 41.2 years.

The median income for a household in the county was $44,998, and the median income for a family was $53,940. Males had a median income of $39,767 versus $28,026 for females. The per capita income for the county was $24,721. About 8.4% of families and 11.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.8% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over.

Politics

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Along with Yellowstone County (home to Billings), Flathead County is one of Montana's more populous counties that leans heavily Republican. It has last voted Democratic in 1964, and has voted over 60% Republican in every presidential election since 1996 save 2008.

United States presidential election results for Flathead County, Montana[11][12]
Year Republican Democratic Third party(ies)
No.  % No.  % No.  %
2024 41,390 65.55% 20,062 31.77% 1,689 2.67%
2020 38,321 63.93% 20,274 33.82% 1,343 2.24%
2016 30,240 63.67% 13,293 27.99% 3,963 8.34%
2012 28,309 64.47% 13,892 31.64% 1,708 3.89%
2008 25,559 58.43% 16,138 36.89% 2,047 4.68%
2004 26,019 67.27% 11,587 29.96% 1,072 2.77%
2000 22,519 66.55% 8,329 24.61% 2,991 8.84%
1996 16,542 51.33% 10,452 32.43% 5,231 16.23%
1992 11,699 37.24% 9,746 31.02% 9,971 31.74%
1988 14,461 57.33% 10,202 40.44% 562 2.23%
1984 17,012 65.93% 8,310 32.21% 481 1.86%
1980 15,102 63.54% 6,349 26.71% 2,316 9.74%
1976 10,494 55.69% 7,827 41.53% 524 2.78%
1972 10,417 60.72% 5,412 31.55% 1,327 7.73%
1968 7,215 51.54% 5,253 37.52% 1,532 10.94%
1964 6,325 44.02% 8,015 55.78% 30 0.21%
1960 7,554 52.95% 6,689 46.88% 24 0.17%
1956 8,088 57.40% 6,003 42.60% 0 0.00%
1952 7,372 59.09% 4,994 40.03% 110 0.88%
1948 4,240 46.12% 4,546 49.45% 407 4.43%
1944 4,066 52.22% 3,608 46.34% 112 1.44%
1940 4,403 45.06% 5,217 53.39% 151 1.55%
1936 2,460 28.83% 5,408 63.38% 664 7.78%
1932 2,978 38.76% 4,026 52.40% 679 8.84%
1928 4,098 66.61% 1,972 32.05% 82 1.33%
1924 2,541 43.28% 788 13.42% 2,542 43.30%
1920 3,900 59.26% 2,241 34.05% 440 6.69%
1916 2,913 45.33% 2,978 46.34% 535 8.33%
1912 493 14.93% 1,106 33.50% 1,702 51.56%
1908 1,838 49.45% 1,480 39.82% 399 10.73%
1904 1,969 64.54% 861 28.22% 221 7.24%
1900 1,104 47.08% 1,201 51.22% 40 1.71%
1896 413 23.22% 1,360 76.45% 6 0.34%

Infrastructure

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  • Kalispell Regional Medical Center is the county's largest hospital.[13]
  • North Valley Hospital is located in Whitefish
  • Flathead County Library System has 4 locations:
      • Bigfork
      • Columbia Falls
      • Kalispell
      • Marion
    • Whitefish Library is separate
  • Flathead County Solid Waste (Landfill) is located between Kalispell and Whitefish
  • There are 16 Fire Districts and 3 Fire Service Areas
  • There are 6 High Schools including private
  • There are 21 Public School Districts
  • Legislature
    • 3 County Commissioner Districts
    • 11 House Districts
    • 7 Senate Districts

Communities

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Cities

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Census-designated places

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Other unincorporated communities

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Adjacent counties

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Education

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High school districts include:[14]

Elementary school districts include:[14]

Flathead Valley Community College is a tertiary institution.

Notable people

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Miami Herald columnist Dave Barry frequently cites the police blotter of the Flathead Beacon in Flathead County as a source of humorous material. It is written in a spare, surrealist style by local man Micah Drew, following the pattern set by earlier writers Christie Burns and Justin Franz.[citation needed]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b "State & County QuickFacts". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved April 5, 2023.
  2. ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Archived from the original on May 31, 2011. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  3. ^ Gannett, Henry (1905). The Origin of Certain Place Names in the United States. Govt. Print. Off. p. 126.
  4. ^ "2010 Census Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. August 22, 2012. Archived from the original on December 5, 2014. Retrieved November 28, 2014.
  5. ^ Long, Ben (March 6, 2020). "Finding a Middle Ground on Wolves and Wolf Management". Outdoor Life. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
  6. ^ "Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Counties: April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2022". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved April 5, 2023.
  7. ^ "U.S. Decennial Census". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved November 28, 2014.
  8. ^ "Historical Census Browser". University of Virginia Library. Archived from the original on August 11, 2012. Retrieved November 28, 2014.
  9. ^ "Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved November 28, 2014.
  10. ^ "Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000" (PDF). United States Census Bureau. Archived (PDF) from the original on March 27, 2010. Retrieved November 28, 2014.
  11. ^ Leip, David. "Atlas of US Presidential Elections". uselectionatlas.org. Retrieved April 2, 2018.
  12. ^ The leading "other" candidate, Progressive Bob La Follette, received 2,537 votes, while the Workers Party candidate William Foster received 5 votes.
  13. ^ Read, Richard (October 24, 2020). "Coronavirus bears down on a small Montana town". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved October 24, 2020.
  14. ^ a b "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Flathead County, MT" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. p. 3 (PDF p. 4/5). Retrieved March 13, 2024. - Text list
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48°17′N 114°01′W / 48.29°N 114.02°W / 48.29; -114.02

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