Why Move to Plentywood?
Plentywood is a small town of 1,669 people in Sheridan County County, sitting at 2,047 feet in elevation. Known as "The Outlaw Trail Town," 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. Plentywood specifically offers 18 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.4x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Plentywood
The typical home value in Plentywood is $151,762. Renters can expect to pay around $755 per month. The median household income is $62,163.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 2.4x, which is very affordable by national standards.
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.
Plentywood Housing Market
There are currently 11 homes for sale in Plentywood — up 57.1% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 980 total housing units with a 26.4% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
Inventory data from Zillow Research (Jan 2026). 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 Plentywood profile.
Plentywood Weather & Climate
Plentywood experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 81°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 10°F. Expect about 12" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 26°F | 10°F | 0.5" | 1.3" |
| Feb | 22°F | 3°F | 0.6" | 1.5" |
| Mar | 37°F | 17°F | 0.5" | 1.3" |
| Apr | 48°F | 27°F | 1.3" | 2.7" |
| May | 65°F | 41°F | 1.8" | 0.1" |
| Jun | 76°F | 54°F | 2.7" | 0" |
| Jul | 81°F | 59°F | 1.8" | 0" |
| Aug | 80°F | 58°F | 1.4" | 0" |
| Sep | 72°F | 49°F | 1.3" | 0.1" |
| Oct | 51°F | 33°F | 1.1" | 1.1" |
| Nov | 37°F | 21°F | 0.8" | 1.6" |
| Dec | 27°F | 10°F | 0.7" | 1.8" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Plentywood
Plentywood has access to 18 recreation and attraction sites spanning 5 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Homestead Lake, McIlwain Lake, Shotgun Reservoir, Killenbeck Reservoir, Burgess Reservoir.
Explore all 18 recreation sites on the full Plentywood profile.
Jobs & Economy in Plentywood
Plentywood has an unemployment rate of 4.4%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 58.9%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (23.5%), Construction (15.2%), Tourism & Hospitality (9.1%). Approximately 803 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 23.5% |
| Construction | 15.2% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 9.1% |
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
Plentywood is served by the Plentywood Public Schools school district with approximately 300 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 90%, 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 Plentywood
Plentywood has its own hospital — Sheridan Memorial Hospital (17 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 277.1 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Plentywood
Plentywood is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 446 miles (461 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 333 miles (348 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 552 miles (567 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 533 miles (548 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 392 miles (407 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Plentywood
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Strong schools (90% grad rate)
- Affordable cost of living
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- 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 Plentywood, Montana?
The typical home value is $151,762 and rent averages $755/month. The median household income is $62,163. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Plentywood?
January lows average 10°F with about 12" of annual snowfall. Winter driving skills and proper vehicle preparation are essential.
Is Plentywood a good place to live?
Plentywood offers 18 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 2.4x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Plentywood?
As of early 2026, there were 11 homes for sale in Plentywood, up 57.1% from the prior year. The community has 980 total housing units with a 26.4% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Plentywood?
Plentywood has a 4.4% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 58.9%. About 803 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is education & healthcare. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Plentywood?
The Plentywood Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 90%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 300 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Plentywood?
Plentywood has a local hospital, Sheridan Memorial Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 277.1 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.