Scobey - Scenic View

Scobey

The Daniels County Gem

Population
861
County
Daniels County
Region
Eastern Montana
Elevation
2,470 ft
Top Industry
Education & Healthcare
Nearest Hospital
Daniels Memorial Healthcare Center (in town)
Zip Code
59263
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

🛩️ Wolf Point (OLF)
58 miles
~1h 13m drive
🛩️ Glasgow (GGW)
81 miles
~1h 36m drive
🛩️ Sidney (SDY)
113 miles
~2h 7m 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 Scobey represents the vast, enduring frontier spirit of Montana.

The history of Scobey 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 Scobey

  • Explore the Surrounding Wilderness: Scobey 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 Scobey 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: Scobey 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 Scobey

Because Scobey 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 Scobey as a scenic day-trip destination.
  • Camping: For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby public lands often provide beautiful, rustic camping options.

Average Monthly Climate — Scobey

MonthAvg HighAvg LowPrecipSnow
Jan27°F11°F0.5"1.2"
Feb22°F4°F0.7"1.8"
Mar37°F17°F0.6"1.4"
Apr48°F27°F1.3"2.5"
May64°F41°F2"0.3"
Jun75°F53°F2.7"0"
Jul81°F58°F1.4"0"
Aug80°F57°F1.5"0"
Sep71°F49°F1.2"0.1"
Oct51°F33°F0.9"1.1"
Nov37°F21°F0.9"1.9"
Dec27°F11°F0.6"1.6"

Housing & Cost of Living

$149,557
Typical Home Value
Census (2019–23): $184,800
$585/mo
Median Rent
$49,797
Median Household Income
National Rankings
Home Value16th percentile
Rent7th percentile
Income24th percentile
Affordability Ratio (home price ÷ income)3xAffordable
Percentile among ~21,000 U.S. cities. Higher = more expensive (home/rent) or higher earning (income).
Housing Availability
Updated Jan 2026
7
Homes for Sale
53.3% vs last year
623
Total Housing Units
28.9%
Vacancy Rate
Employment & Economy
ACS 5-Year 2019–2023
2%
Unemployment Rate
MT avg: ~3.5%
62.4%
Labor Force Participation
441
Employed Residents
Top Industries
Education & Healthcare
20%
Government
12.7%
Agriculture & Mining
12.5%
Home values from Zillow ZHVI (Jan 2026). Inventory, list prices & new listings from Zillow Research (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.
🏫
Scobey Public Schools
~200 students
Grad Rate
93%
Graduation rate: OPI/NCES 2022–23. MT state avg: ~87%.

Outdoor Recreation Near Scobey

5.2/10
Good
19 sites within 50 mi
5 categories
🏞️31🏛️93🦅3
Must-See Highlights
🏞️
Killenbeck Reservoir
Lakes15 mi
Scobey Golf Course
Golf1 mi
🏛️
Daniels County Museum
Museums1 mi
🏛️
Pioneer Town
Museums1 mi
Plentywood Golf Club
Golf39 mi
🏛️
Sheridan County Agriculture Museum and Civic Center
Museums40 mi
🏛️
Sheridan County Museum
Museums40 mi
🏞️
McIlwain Lake
Lakes44 mi
🦅
Medicine Lake NWR
Wildlife47 mi
🏛️
Fort Peck Tribal Museum
Museums47 mi

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

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