Why Move to Scobey?
Scobey is a small town of 861 people in Daniels County County, sitting at 2,470 feet in elevation. Known as "The Daniels County 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. Scobey specifically offers 19 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Scobey
The typical home value in Scobey is $149,557. Renters can expect to pay around $585 per month. The median household income is $49,797.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3x, 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.
Scobey Housing Market
There are currently 7 homes for sale in Scobey — down 53.3% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 623 total housing units with a 28.9% 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 Scobey profile.
Scobey Weather & Climate
Scobey experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 81°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 11°F. Expect about 12" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 27°F | 11°F | 0.5" | 1.2" |
| Feb | 22°F | 4°F | 0.7" | 1.8" |
| Mar | 37°F | 17°F | 0.6" | 1.4" |
| Apr | 48°F | 27°F | 1.3" | 2.5" |
| May | 64°F | 41°F | 2" | 0.3" |
| Jun | 75°F | 53°F | 2.7" | 0" |
| Jul | 81°F | 58°F | 1.4" | 0" |
| Aug | 80°F | 57°F | 1.5" | 0" |
| Sep | 71°F | 49°F | 1.2" | 0.1" |
| Oct | 51°F | 33°F | 0.9" | 1.1" |
| Nov | 37°F | 21°F | 0.9" | 1.9" |
| Dec | 27°F | 11°F | 0.6" | 1.6" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Scobey
Scobey has access to 19 recreation and attraction sites spanning 5 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Killenbeck Reservoir, McIlwain Lake, Homestead Lake.
Explore all 19 recreation sites on the full Scobey profile.
Jobs & Economy in Scobey
Scobey has an unemployment rate of 2%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 62.4%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (20%), Government (12.7%), Agriculture & Mining (12.5%). Approximately 441 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 20% |
| Government | 12.7% |
| Agriculture & Mining | 12.5% |
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
Scobey is served by the Scobey Public Schools school district with approximately 200 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 93%, 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 Scobey
Scobey has its own hospital — Daniels Memorial Healthcare Center (10 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 253.1 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Scobey
Scobey is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 408 miles (423 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 303 miles (318 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 507 miles (522 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 486 miles (501 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 347 miles (362 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Scobey
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Low unemployment (2%)
- Strong schools (93% grad rate)
- 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
- 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 Scobey, Montana?
The typical home value is $149,557 and rent averages $585/month. The median household income is $49,797. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Scobey?
January lows average 11°F with about 12" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Scobey a good place to live?
Scobey offers 19 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Scobey?
As of early 2026, there were 7 homes for sale in Scobey, down 53.3% from the prior year. The community has 623 total housing units with a 28.9% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Scobey?
Scobey has a 2% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 62.4%. About 441 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 Scobey?
The Scobey Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 93%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 200 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Scobey?
Scobey has a local hospital, Daniels Memorial Healthcare Center. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 253.1 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.