Discover the Poorest Town in Montana

Montana’s Economy

“I would like to have seen Montana,” muses Vasili Borodin, a Russian captain in the 1990 movie “The Hunt for Red October.” Borodin was smart. If I were a Russian attempting to defect to America, Montana would be a wise choice! The fourth largest state in America, Montana boasts picturesque venues, mountains, and wide open spaces. It’s not called “Big Sky Country” for nothing!

However, inflation and interest rate hikes affect even “The Treasure State.” The latest information from the American Community Survey (ACS) indicated that all is not as it seems. Even though the average income in Montana has risen, the average household income is $60,560. Accordingly, the statewide poverty rate is 12.5%.

The Poorest Town in Montana

Settlers first designated the town as Horse Plains, but it was shortened to Plains in 1883 when the Northern Pacific Railway first made its way into town. Plains, Montana, is the poorest town in Montana with a poverty rate of 20.5%, 39% higher than the state average. Located in the northwest section of the state, Plains has a population of only 1,156 residents. Its median age is 39.7.

Plains boasts the Lolo National Forest, which contains over 2,500 miles of trails. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the bighorn sheep, making Plains a popular tourist visit. The average median income in Plains is $23,413, well below Montana’s average.

Plains is a rural town in Sanders County, with fewer employment opportunities than most other cities. Its employment rating received an “F” grade from Liveability. As well, it also earned “F” ratings in amenities, commute, and crime.

Crime in Plains, Montana

People wanting to relocate or visit always take crime rates into account. The FBI released crime statistics for Montana in September 2022. Although many crimes, like burglary and theft, were low, violent crimes were not. Data was not available for many areas, but the FBI estimated Plains, Montana, to have 640 violent crimes per 100,000 people. In contrast, they reported 470 violent crimes per 100,000 people in the state of Montana. In contrast, they reported 388 violent crimes per 100,000 people across the entire nation. However, crime rates vary significantly depending on what part of Plains you are in.

On a brighter note, Plains is safer than many cities in Montana. Billings rates highest for crime in Montana, and most attribute this measure to the rising population. Missoula, Great Falls, Helena, Bozeman, Kalispell, Butte, and Havre all have higher crime rates.

Reasons to Visit Plains

While Plains is economically deprived, tourists still have plenty of reasons to visit Plains. As mentioned previously, tourists flock to view the bighorn sheep in the Lolo National Forest. The peak viewing times are November and December; however, visitors may catch glimpses of them from October through May. The Clark Fork River provides plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing.

Hikers can enjoy plenty of trails in Plains. Big Hole Peak provides a moderate 5.9-mile out-and-back trek. The route is well-maintained and also includes some great views. Find the lookout post at the summit where you may chance to meet some mountain goats.

For a more challenging journey, hike Baldy Lake Trail, which is 5.3 miles out and back. You will experience a path less traveled that features boulder fields along the way. You can head downward to Baldy Lake but save some strength. What goes down must come up, so be prepared to walk back up that 600-foot climb! For the diehards, try the 10.7-mile Baldy Mountain Trail. Though it’s strenuous, you’re unlikely to see another human around.

Camping and Lodging

Book your camping trip early at the Cascade Campground, which has only 10 campsites but lies along the Clark Fork River. For a bigger campground, head to Campground St. Regis which contains 64 campsites. Visitors can find campsites, RV hookups, and cabins at the nearby Nugget Resorts. Formal accommodations are scarce in Plains, but you can find lodging within 30 miles at either Little River Motel in St. Regis or Rocky Point Ranch in Eddy.

Special Events

Summer brings festivities to Plains, so don’t miss out! Head out to the huge annual Sanders County yard sale each year in the last week of June. June also brings the Plains Day Parade, filled with floats, food, and celebration. Finally, don’t miss out on the Sanders County Fair in August. It features above-and-beyond-normal fair revelry with a rodeo and demolition derby.

Food

After all of the hiking and sightseeing, you’re going to be hungry! Stop in The Bean Bug, which offers great coffee, breakfast, and lunch choices. The breakfast burrito is a fan favorite. Also open for breakfast and lunch is The Butcher’s Nook, which offers both hot and cold deli choices as well as a friendly staff.

Finally, for a more upscale dinner, try Harwood House Restaurant at Quinn’s Hot Springs. Harwood House features locally sourced beef, seasonal seafood, and fresh, organic produce. Pair your filet with Harwood’s extensive wine list for a truly memorable meal!