Why Move to Hobson?
Hobson is a small town of 160 people in Judith Basin County County, sitting at 4,091 feet in elevation. Known as "The Judith Basin Gem," it combines the best of Montana living — stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong community — with authentic small-town charm.
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Hobson specifically offers 69 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 8.4x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Hobson
The typical home value in Hobson is $290,752. Renters can expect to pay around $619 per month. The median household income is $34,750.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 8.4x, which is on the expensive side, reflecting strong demand.
Montana has no state sales tax, which saves residents money on everyday purchases. The state also has no tax on Social Security or other retirement income. Property taxes are moderate, based on assessed value.
Hobson Housing Market
Hobson. The community has 93 total housing units with a 20.4% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
Inventory data from Zillow Research (recent). Vacancy & housing units from U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year 2019–2023. Market conditions change — verify current listings before making decisions.
See detailed housing data and percentile rankings on the full Hobson profile.
Hobson Weather & Climate
Hobson experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 83°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 21°F. Expect about 20" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 21°F | 0.9" | 2.1" |
| Feb | 29°F | 11°F | 1.3" | 3.7" |
| Mar | 42°F | 22°F | 0.8" | 2" |
| Apr | 50°F | 30°F | 2.4" | 3.4" |
| May | 62°F | 41°F | 3.1" | 0.9" |
| Jun | 72°F | 50°F | 3.3" | 0" |
| Jul | 83°F | 58°F | 1" | 0" |
| Aug | 82°F | 58°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Sep | 73°F | 49°F | 1.7" | 0.4" |
| Oct | 54°F | 34°F | 2" | 2.7" |
| Nov | 44°F | 26°F | 1.1" | 2.1" |
| Dec | 37°F | 19°F | 1" | 2.5" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Hobson
Hobson has access to 69 recreation and attraction sites spanning 13 categories. For skiing, Showdown Montana is 41 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Showdown Montana (Ski Area) — 41 miles
- Kings Hill Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 41 miles
- Spa Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 58 miles
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 72 miles
- Gates of the Mountains Wilderness (Wilderness) — 94 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Spring Creek Trout Hatchery, Upper Carters Pond, Taylor Lake, Rhoda Lake, Little Phantom Lake.
Hot Springs
Spa Hot Springs (58 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 69 recreation sites on the full Hobson profile.
Jobs & Economy in Hobson
Hobson has an unemployment rate of 23.3%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 46.2%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Transportation (26.1%), Education & Healthcare (23.9%), Retail (10.9%). Approximately 46 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Transportation | 26.1% |
| Education & Healthcare | 23.9% |
| Retail | 10.9% |
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it attractive for both workers and retirees.
Employment and industry data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year 2019–2023. Current conditions may differ.
Schools & Education
Hobson is served by the Hobson Public Schools school district with approximately 80 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 92%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Hobson
The nearest hospital is Central Montana Medical Center in Lewistown, 21.4 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 75.2 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Hobson
Hobson is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 125 miles (140 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 125 miles (140 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 239 miles (254 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 268 miles (283 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 93 miles (108 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Hobson
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Strong schools (92% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Showdown Montana (41 mi)
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Higher unemployment (23.3%)
- Limited shopping and dining options
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Hobson, Montana?
The typical home value is $290,752 and rent averages $619/month. The median household income is $34,750. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Hobson?
January lows average 21°F with about 20" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Hobson a good place to live?
Hobson offers 69 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 8.4x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Hobson?
Housing availability varies. The community has 93 total housing units with a 20.4% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Hobson?
Hobson has a 23.3% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 46.2%. About 46 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is transportation. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Hobson?
The Hobson Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 92%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 80 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Hobson?
The nearest hospital is Central Montana Medical Center in Lewistown (21.4 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 75.2 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Hobson?
Showdown Montana is 41 miles from Hobson. The area receives about 20" of snow annually.