A side-by-side comparison to help you decide which Montana community is right for you.
| Overview | Medicine Lake | Shelby |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 213 | 3,169 |
| Elevation | 1,959 ft | 3,297 ft |
| County | Sheridan County | Toole County |
| Region | Eastern Montana | Central Montana |
| Climate | ||
| January Avg High | 27°F | 34°F |
| January Avg Low | 10°F | 18°F |
| July Avg High | 83°F | 82°F |
| July Avg Low | 61°F | 57°F |
| Annual Precipitation | 14.7" | 12.9" |
| Annual Snowfall | 11.0" | 13.6" |
| Housing & Cost of Living (ACS 2019–2023) | ||
| Typical Home Value | $115,632 | $170,299 |
| Median Rent | $492/mo | $769/mo |
| Median Household Income | $41,000 | $53,357 |
| Access & Education | ||
| Nearest Airport | Sidney (68 mi) | Great Falls (89 mi) |
| Zip Code | 59247 | 59474 |
| School District | Medicine Lake Public Schools | Shelby Public Schools |
| Enrollment | ~80 | ~500 |
Outdoor Recreation & Attractions (within 30 mi)
Medicine Lake: 12 sites | Shelby: 21 sites
| Category | Medicine Lake | Shelby |
|---|---|---|
| ⛺ Campground | 1 | 6 |
| 🐟 Fishing Access | 1 | — |
| ⛳ Golf | 1 | 3 |
| 📜 Historic Site | — | 1 |
| 🏞️ Lake | 3 | 8 |
| 🏛️ Museum | 3 | 2 |
| 📍 Nature Reserve | 2 | 1 |
| 🦅 Wildlife Refuge | 1 | — |