Hobson - Scenic View

Hobson

The Judith Basin Gem

Population
160
County
Judith Basin County
Region
Central Montana
Elevation
4,091 ft
Top Industry
Transportation
Nearest Hospital
Central Montana Medical Center (21.4 mi)
Zip Code
59452
Area Code
406
Time Zone
Mountain Time (MT)
Industry: Census ACS 5-Year 2019–2023 · Hospital: MT DPHHS 2024
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Nearest Major Airports

✈️ Great Falls (GTF)
93 miles
~1h 48m drive
✈️ Helena (HLN)
124 miles
~2h 19m drive
✈️ Bozeman (BZN)
125 miles
~2h 20m drive

Quick Facts

  • Population: ~TBD (Source: U.S. Census Bureau estimates)
  • County: TBD County
  • Elevation: TBD ft
  • Known For: Historical agricultural roots, stunning Montana landscapes, and quiet small-town charm.

History & Heritage

The quiet town of Hobson represents the vast, enduring frontier spirit of Montana.

The history of Hobson is closely tied to the pioneering spirit of early Montana. Founded during the homesteading or railroad eras, the town grew as a central hub for the surrounding farmers and ranchers who worked the expansive plains and river valleys. Today, it retains its deep agricultural heritage and stands as a testament to the resilience of rural Montana communities.

Top Things to Do in Hobson

  • Explore the Surrounding Wilderness: Hobson serves as a fantastic, quiet basecamp for exploring the vast public lands, rivers, and mountain ranges that define this region of Montana.
  • Experience Local Culture: Visit the local businesses, cafes, and historic sites in town to experience the genuine, welcoming hospitality of a classic Montana ranching community.
  • Hunting and Fishing: The surrounding agricultural fields, prairies, and waterways provide excellent, uncrowded opportunities for seasonal hunting and fishing.

Local Industry & Economy

The economy of Hobson is primarily driven by agriculture. The vast expanses of land surrounding the town are dedicated to cattle ranching and dryland farming (primarily wheat, barley, and hay). Small, locally-owned businesses provide essential services and goods to the community, while the local school district often serves as one of the primary civic anchors and employers in town.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

  • Getting There: Hobson is accessible via Montana's network of scenic state highways and local county roads, offering a beautiful drive no matter which direction you approach from.
  • Nearby Destinations:
    • Regional Hubs: Larger neighboring cities offer comprehensive dining, shopping, and commercial airports.
    • State Parks and Public Lands: Visitors can easily take day trips to nearby state parks, national forests, or wildlife refuges.

Where to Stay in Hobson

Because Hobson is a smaller, residential community, traditional commercial lodging can be limited.

  • Local Motels: There may be small, independent motels in or near town offering basic accommodations for highway travelers and hunters.
  • Nearby Cities: Many visitors choose to stay in larger regional hubs a short drive away, utilizing Hobson as a scenic day-trip destination.
  • Camping: For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby public lands often provide beautiful, rustic camping options.

Average Monthly Climate — Hobson

MonthAvg HighAvg LowPrecipSnow
Jan38°F21°F0.9"2.1"
Feb29°F11°F1.3"3.7"
Mar42°F22°F0.8"2"
Apr50°F30°F2.4"3.4"
May62°F41°F3.1"0.9"
Jun72°F50°F3.3"0"
Jul83°F58°F1"0"
Aug82°F58°F1.3"0"
Sep73°F49°F1.7"0.4"
Oct54°F34°F2"2.7"
Nov44°F26°F1.1"2.1"
Dec37°F19°F1"2.5"

Housing & Cost of Living

$290,752
Typical Home Value
Census (2019–23): $112,500
$619/mo
Median Rent
$34,750
Median Household Income
National Rankings
Home Value57th percentile
Rent9th percentile
Income6th percentile
Affordability Ratio (home price ÷ income)8.4xVery Expensive
Percentile among ~21,000 U.S. cities. Higher = more expensive (home/rent) or higher earning (income).
Housing Availability
93
Total Housing Units
20.4%
Vacancy Rate
Employment & Economy
ACS 5-Year 2019–2023
23.3%
Unemployment Rate
MT avg: ~3.5%
46.2%
Labor Force Participation
46
Employed Residents
Top Industries
Transportation
26.1%
Education & Healthcare
23.9%
Retail
10.9%
Home values from Zillow ZHVI (Jan 2026). Income, vacancy,, employment, industry, from U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year 2019–2023. Data may not reflect current conditions. Check Zillow for the latest market data.
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Hobson Public Schools
~80 students
Grad Rate
92%
Graduation rate: OPI/NCES 2022–23. MT state avg: ~87%.

Outdoor Recreation Near Hobson

9.1/10
World-Class
69 sites within 50 mi
13 categories
🏕️1🌳1🏞️12♨️1⛷️227🥾1💧1🏛️7📜13🛣️1🦅11
Must-See Highlights
🏕️
Gates of the Mountains Wilderness
Wilderness94 mi
🌳
Ackley Lake State Park
State Parks4 mi
🏞️
Spring Creek Trout Hatchery
Lakes23 mi
♨️
Spa Hot Springs
Hot Springs58 mi
⛷️
Showdown Montana
Ski Areas41 mi
💧
Wolf Creek Falls
Waterfalls38 mi
🛣️
Kings Hill Scenic Byway
Scenic Drives41 mi
🏛️
Sod Buster Museum
Museums9 mi
🏛️
Utica Museum
Museums11 mi
🏛️
Judith Basin County Museum
Museums19 mi

Distances are straight-line estimates. Driving distances may be longer. Data: OpenStreetMap contributors & editorial research.

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