Custer County Led Montana in Home Air Conditioning Rates

New data reveals which Montana counties have the most cooling systems installed in their homes.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Residential

Screen-print poster illustration of a residential air conditioning unit against wood siding and dry grass, representing Montana home climate control. — Data from the 2023 American Housing Survey identifies Custer County as having the highest rate of residential air conditioning installation across Montana. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Is your current home cooling system sufficient for the extreme heat events in your area?

Data from the 2023 American Housing Survey shows that 95.5% of households in Custer County utilized air conditioning, ranking it highest across the state. Statewide, Montana residents maintain a 73% air conditioning prevalence, which remains the fifth-lowest rate in the United States.

Why it matters

Understanding regional cooling infrastructure helps homeowners prepare for extreme weather, such as the 115-degree heat recorded in Miles City on July 12, 2026. This data highlights the divide in residential climate control preparedness across Montana's 56 counties.

In 2023, Custer County reached a 95.5% air conditioning rate among 5,044 surveyed households, while Deer Lodge County reported the state's lowest prevalence at 44.6%. These figures contrast with neighboring states like North Dakota, which maintains an air conditioning prevalence of 97.9%.

The players

United States Census Bureau

The federal agency responsible for collecting and analyzing housing data through the American Community Survey.

The details

The Census Bureau determined these rates by modeling combined data from the American Housing Survey and the American Community Survey. This statistical approach estimates cooling availability by analyzing residential housing inventory across different geographic levels. While Custer County relies heavily on cooling, the state as a whole currently trails regional neighbors like South Dakota and Idaho.

2023: Census Bureau data collection on residential air conditioning.
July 12, 2026: Miles City recorded a temperature of 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Home Front

Montana's cooling infrastructure reflects a broader trend of climate adaptation in northern states as historical weather patterns shift. This data aligns with findings from the American Housing Survey, providing a baseline for comparing residential property features across the region.

If you live in an area with lower air conditioning prevalence, consider reviewing your home's cooling capacity before peak summer temperatures. Consult with a licensed HVAC professional to assess if your current system is adequately sized to manage extreme heat events.

The takeaway

Regional climate trends suggest that having an efficient cooling system is increasingly important for home comfort and safety. Residents should review their HVAC system maintenance schedule to ensure it is ready for summer use.