Why Move to Poplar?
Poplar is a small town of 635 people in Roosevelt County County, sitting at 1,995 feet in elevation. Known as "The Fort Peck Reservation 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. Poplar specifically offers 31 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Poplar
The typical home value in Poplar is $91,700. Renters can expect to pay around $680 per month. The median household income is $45,104.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 2x, 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.
Poplar Housing Market
Poplar. The community has 334 total housing units with a 36.2% 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 Poplar profile.
Poplar Weather & Climate
Poplar experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 12°F. Expect about 11" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°F | 12°F | 0.5" | 1" |
| Feb | 25°F | 6°F | 0.7" | 1.8" |
| Mar | 39°F | 18°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Apr | 51°F | 29°F | 1.4" | 2.3" |
| May | 66°F | 43°F | 2.1" | 0.3" |
| Jun | 78°F | 56°F | 2.3" | 0" |
| Jul | 85°F | 61°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 60°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 73°F | 51°F | 2" | 0" |
| Oct | 53°F | 35°F | 1.4" | 1.4" |
| Nov | 39°F | 22°F | 0.8" | 1.4" |
| Dec | 29°F | 12°F | 0.7" | 1.7" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Poplar
Poplar has access to 31 recreation and attraction sites spanning 5 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include McIlwain Lake, Homestead Lake, Shotgun Reservoir, Game Reservoir, Jays Reservoir.
Explore all 31 recreation sites on the full Poplar profile.
Jobs & Economy in Poplar
Poplar has an unemployment rate of 7.5%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 39.3%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (58.2%), Government (18.5%), Professional Services (6.5%). Approximately 184 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 58.2% |
| Government | 18.5% |
| Professional Services | 6.5% |
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
Poplar is served by the Poplar Public Schools school district with approximately 500 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 58%, which is significantly below the state average.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Poplar
Poplar has its own hospital — Poplar Community Hospital (20 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 223.9 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Poplar
Poplar is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 389 miles (404 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 269 miles (284 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 507 miles (522 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 500 miles (515 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 348 miles (363 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Poplar
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Higher unemployment (7.5%)
- Below-average school graduation rate (58%)
- 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 Poplar, Montana?
The typical home value is $91,700 and rent averages $680/month. The median household income is $45,104. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Poplar?
January lows average 12°F with about 11" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Poplar a good place to live?
Poplar offers 31 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 2x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Poplar?
Housing availability varies. The community has 334 total housing units with a 36.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Poplar?
Poplar has a 7.5% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 39.3%. About 184 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 Poplar?
The Poplar Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 58%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 500 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Poplar?
Poplar has a local hospital, Poplar Community Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 223.9 miles away. There are 7 hospitals within 60 miles.