Jobs & Economy in Powell
Powell's economy runs on a real, dual base: Northwest College and public institutions on one side, irrigated agriculture, oil, ranching, and tourism on the other.
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Learn moreNorthwest College, a real institutional anchor
Northwest College, a public two-year institution, is a real, current cornerstone of Powell's economy and culture -- alongside public schools and Powell Valley Healthcare, it is one of the town's largest employers.
A real, irrigation-dependent agricultural economy
The Shoshone Irrigation District manages canals providing full irrigation to more than 93,000 acres, supporting alfalfa, grain, and bean crops -- a real, structural response to the Bighorn Basin's genuinely low natural rainfall.
Gateway proximity to Yellowstone
Powell sits a real gateway distance from Yellowstone National Park's northeast approach via nearby Cody (approximately 25 miles east) -- a genuine tourism draw for the wider region.
Key takeaways
- Northwest College anchors a real, current cornerstone of Powell's economy.
- Irrigated agriculture (93,000+ acres) forms a real, structural economic base.
- Real gateway proximity to Yellowstone via Cody adds a tourism dimension.
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