Terry - Scenic View

Terry

The Prairie County Gem

Population
537
County
Prairie County
Region
Eastern Montana
Elevation
2,251 ft
Top Industry
Education & Healthcare
Nearest Hospital
Glendive Medical Center (35.6 mi)
Zip Code
59349
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

🛩️ Glendive (GDV)
40 miles
~55m drive
🛩️ Sidney (SDY)
99 miles
~1h 53m drive
🛩️ Wolf Point (OLF)
109 miles
~2h 3m 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 Terry represents the vast, enduring frontier spirit of Montana.

The history of Terry 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 Terry

  • Explore the Surrounding Wilderness: Terry 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 Terry 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: Terry 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 Terry

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

Average Monthly Climate — Terry

MonthAvg HighAvg LowPrecipSnow
Jan34°F17°F0.4"0.9"
Feb29°F9°F0.8"2"
Mar43°F21°F0.5"1.1"
Apr53°F31°F1.5"1.8"
May66°F44°F2.3"0.1"
Jun80°F57°F1.9"0"
Jul88°F63°F0.8"0"
Aug86°F62°F1"0"
Sep76°F52°F2"0"
Oct55°F36°F1.7"1.5"
Nov43°F25°F0.6"1.1"
Dec33°F16°F0.7"1.6"

Housing & Cost of Living

$115,524
Typical Home Value
Census (2019–23): $104,300
$36,154
Median Household Income
National Rankings
Home Value7th percentile
Income7th percentile
Affordability Ratio (home price ÷ income)3.2xModerate
Percentile among ~21,000 U.S. cities. Higher = more expensive (home/rent) or higher earning (income).
Housing Availability
360
Total Housing Units
35%
Vacancy Rate
Employment & Economy
ACS 5-Year 2019–2023
3.6%
Unemployment Rate
MT avg: ~3.5%
42.1%
Labor Force Participation
160
Employed Residents
Top Industries
Education & Healthcare
25.6%
Transportation
15%
Professional Services
13.1%
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.
🏫
Terry Public Schools
~120 students

Outdoor Recreation Near Terry

6.7/10
Very Good
33 sites within 50 mi
8 categories
🌳3🏞️65🥾1🏛️71🦅3👀7
Must-See Highlights
🌳
Makoshika State Park
State Parks36 mi
🏞️
Lindsay Reservoir
Lakes30 mi
Kempton RV Campground
Campgrounds0 mi
🏛️
Prairie County Museum
Museums0 mi
🦅
Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area
Wildlife8 mi
Strawberry Hill Recreation Area
Campgrounds31 mi
🥾
Vista View Trailhead
Trailheads35 mi
🏛️
Makoshika State Park Visitors Center
Museums35 mi
👀
Caines Coulee Overlook
Viewpoints35 mi
👀
Kinney Coulee Vista View
Viewpoints35 mi

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

Terry in Our Rankings & Guides

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