Why Move to Winnett?
Winnett is a small town of 201 people in Petroleum County County, sitting at 2,956 feet in elevation. Known as "The Petroleum County Seat," 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. Winnett specifically offers 29 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Winnett
The typical home value in Winnett is $147,904. The median household income is $66,875.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 2.2x, 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.
Winnett Housing Market
There are currently 5 homes for sale in Winnett. The community has 133 total housing units with a 30.1% 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 Winnett profile.
Winnett Weather & Climate
Winnett experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 87°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 20°F. Expect about 13" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 20°F | 0.6" | 1.4" |
| Feb | 30°F | 11°F | 1" | 2.5" |
| Mar | 44°F | 23°F | 0.7" | 1.2" |
| Apr | 53°F | 32°F | 1.9" | 2.3" |
| May | 65°F | 44°F | 2.2" | 0.7" |
| Jun | 77°F | 55°F | 2.6" | 0" |
| Jul | 87°F | 62°F | 0.6" | 0" |
| Aug | 86°F | 61°F | 1" | 0" |
| Sep | 76°F | 52°F | 1.7" | 0" |
| Oct | 57°F | 36°F | 1.4" | 1.7" |
| Nov | 45°F | 25°F | 0.8" | 1.4" |
| Dec | 37°F | 19°F | 0.7" | 1.7" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Winnett
Winnett has access to 29 recreation and attraction sites spanning 8 categories.
Rivers
Musselshell River is within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include War Horse Lake, Shaw Reservoir, Spring Creek Trout Hatchery, Upper Carters Pond, Black Sea Reservoir.
Explore all 29 recreation sites on the full Winnett profile.
Jobs & Economy in Winnett
Winnett has an unemployment rate of 1.9%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 63.9%.
The top industries by employment are Retail (30.8%), Construction (26.9%), Agriculture & Mining (14.4%). Approximately 104 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Retail | 30.8% |
| Construction | 26.9% |
| Agriculture & Mining | 14.4% |
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
Winnett is served by the Winnett Public Schools school district with approximately 50 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Winnett
The nearest hospital is Roundup Memorial Healthcare in Roundup, 39.6 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Billings Clinic in Billings (Level 1 Trauma Center) is 84.6 miles away.
Note: Healthcare access in Winnett is limited. If you have ongoing medical needs, consider proximity to Billings Clinic when making your decision.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Winnett
Winnett is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 190 miles (205 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 100 miles (115 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 325 miles (340 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 347 miles (362 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 174 miles (189 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Winnett
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Low unemployment (1.9%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Limited healthcare access (nearest hospital: 39.6 mi)
- 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 Winnett, Montana?
The typical home value is $147,904. The median household income is $66,875. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Winnett?
January lows average 20°F with about 13" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Winnett a good place to live?
Winnett offers 29 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 2.2x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Winnett?
As of early 2026, there were 5 homes for sale in Winnett. The community has 133 total housing units with a 30.1% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Winnett?
Winnett has a 1.9% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 63.9%. About 104 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is retail. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
What healthcare is available in Winnett?
The nearest hospital is Roundup Memorial Healthcare in Roundup (39.6 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 84.6 miles away. There are 2 hospitals within 60 miles.