Why Move to Shelby?
Shelby is a town of 3,169 people in Toole County County, sitting at 3,297 feet in elevation. Known as "The Crossroads of Montana," 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. Shelby specifically offers 55 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Shelby
The typical home value in Shelby is $170,299, with homes currently listing at a median of $184,500. Renters can expect to pay around $769 per month. The median household income is $53,357.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.2x, which is moderate and comparable to the national average.
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.
Shelby Housing Market
There are currently 27 homes for sale in Shelby — up 145.5% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 1,407 total housing units with a 18% 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 Shelby profile.
Shelby Weather & Climate
Shelby experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 82°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 18°F. Expect about 14" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34°F | 18°F | 0.4" | 1" |
| Feb | 27°F | 9°F | 1" | 2.6" |
| Mar | 39°F | 18°F | 0.7" | 1.7" |
| Apr | 51°F | 30°F | 0.8" | 1.2" |
| May | 63°F | 41°F | 2.4" | 0.8" |
| Jun | 73°F | 51°F | 2.3" | 0" |
| Jul | 82°F | 57°F | 0.3" | 0" |
| Aug | 81°F | 56°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 71°F | 48°F | 1.2" | 0.9" |
| Oct | 52°F | 33°F | 0.9" | 1.3" |
| Nov | 40°F | 23°F | 1.3" | 2.3" |
| Dec | 32°F | 16°F | 0.7" | 1.8" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Shelby
Shelby has access to 55 recreation and attraction sites spanning 9 categories. Glacier National Park (East Glacier) is just 63 miles away. For skiing, Teton Pass Ski Area is 57 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Teton Pass Ski Area (Ski Area) — 57 miles
- Glacier National Park (East Glacier) (National Park) — 63 miles
- Great Bear Wilderness (Wilderness) — 80 miles
- Glacier National Park (West Glacier) (National Park) — 97 miles
- Bob Marshall Wilderness (Wilderness) — 98 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Virden Lake, Summers Reservoir, Verden Lake, Melcott Reservoir, Dunkirk Reservoir.
Explore all 55 recreation sites on the full Shelby profile.
Jobs & Economy in Shelby
Shelby has an unemployment rate of 2.2%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 48.8%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (25%), Tourism & Hospitality (12.8%), Government (12.7%). Approximately 1,293 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 25% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 12.8% |
| Government | 12.7% |
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
Shelby is served by the Shelby Public Schools school district with approximately 500 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 85%, which is near the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Shelby
Shelby has its own hospital — Logan Health - Shelby (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 73.1 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Shelby
Shelby is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 230 miles (245 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 291 miles (306 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 181 miles (196 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 133 miles (148 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 89 miles (104 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Shelby
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (2.2%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Skiing at Teton Pass Ski Area (57 mi)
- Near Glacier National Park (East Glacier)
- 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 Shelby, Montana?
The typical home value is $170,299 and rent averages $769/month. The median household income is $53,357. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Shelby?
January lows average 18°F with about 14" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Shelby a good place to live?
Shelby offers 55 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.2x, and four distinct seasons. It's 63 miles from Glacier National Park (East Glacier). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Shelby?
As of early 2026, there were 27 homes for sale in Shelby, up 145.5% from the prior year. The community has 1,407 total housing units with a 18% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Shelby?
Shelby has a 2.2% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 48.8%. About 1,293 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 Shelby?
The Shelby Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 85%, near the state average. Approximately 500 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Shelby?
Shelby has a local hospital, Logan Health - Shelby. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 73.1 miles away. There are 5 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Shelby?
Teton Pass Ski Area is 57 miles from Shelby. The area receives about 14" of snow annually.