Inverness MontanaHill County Montanacensus-designated placeMontana demographicsU.S. Route 2

Inverness, Montana: A Quiet Community in Hill County

Inverness, Montana: A Quiet Community in Hill County

Nestled in the heart of Hill County, Inverness, Montana, is a peaceful census-designated place (CDP)—a concentration of population identified by the U.S. Census Bureau for statistical purposes. Named after the famous city in Scotland, this small community offers a glimpse into the rural landscape of the American West.

Located at an elevation of 3,291 feet, Inverness serves as a quiet waypoint for those traveling through the state, characterized by its wide-open spaces and close-knit atmosphere.

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Key Facts

  • Location: Hill County, Montana, United States.
  • Population: 77 residents (as of the 2020 Census).
  • Geography: Approximately 3.90 to 4.0 square miles of land.
  • Transport: Situated along U.S. Route 2.
  • Education: Part of the Chester-Joplin-Inverness School District.

Geography and Location

Inverness is strategically positioned about halfway between the larger towns of Shelby and Havre. The community is bisected by U.S. Route 2, a major east-west highway that provides essential connectivity for residents and travelers alike.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP encompasses a total area of approximately 4.0 square miles, consisting entirely of land with no significant water bodies within its boundaries.

Demographics and Community Profile

The population of Inverness has seen a slight decline over the last two decades. While the 2000 census recorded 103 residents, the 2020 census reported a total population of 77 people.

Population Characteristics

Based on 2000 data, the community was predominantly White (99.03%), with a small Native American population (0.97%). The median age was 38 years, with a balanced gender ratio of 98.1 males for every 100 females.

Household and Economic Data

Historically, the community has featured a mix of family structures, with 65% of households consisting of married couples. Economic data from the 2000 census indicated a median household income of $28,750 and a per capita income of $15,594. During that period, approximately 23.5% of the population lived below the poverty line, with a higher concentration (37.8%) among residents under the age of 18.

Transportation and Infrastructure

While Inverness is a small hub, it is crossed by significant transportation infrastructure. The BNSF tracks run through the town, carrying Amtrak’s Empire Builder route, which connects Seattle and Portland to Chicago.

Although the Empire Builder passes through Inverness, it does not make a scheduled stop. Residents and visitors seeking rail travel must head to the nearest stations in Havre (47 miles east) or Shelby (56 miles west).

Education

Local students are served by the Chester-Joplin-Inverness School District, ensuring that the youth of this rural community have access to organized educational resources.

Inverness, Montana: Quick Reference Summary
Category Detail
Coordinates 48°33′35″N 110°43′45″W
Total Area 3.90 - 4.0 sq mi
2020 Population 77
Elevation 3,291 ft (1,003 m)
ZIP Code 59530
Area Code 406

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Inverness, Montana located?

Inverness is a census-designated place in Hill County, Montana, situated roughly halfway between the towns of Shelby and Havre along U.S. Route 2.

Does the Amtrak train stop in Inverness?

No, while Amtrak's Empire Builder passes through the town on BNSF tracks, it does not stop there. The closest stations are in Havre and Shelby.

What is the population of Inverness?

As of the 2020 census, the population of Inverness was 77 people.

Which school district serves Inverness?

Inverness is part of the Chester-Joplin-Inverness School District.

How did Inverness get its name?

The community was named after a city in Scotland.

References

  1. "ArcGIS REST Services Directory". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved September 5, 2022.
  2. U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Inverness, Montana
  3. "2020 Decennial Census Redistricting Data (Public Law 94-171)". United States Census Bureau. 2021. Retrieved March 11, 2026.
  4. "Inverness". Montana Place Names Companion. Montana Historical Society. Retrieved April 4, 2021.
  5. "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2016.