The 10 Best Places To Live In Montana

When you move to Montana you are embracing its vastness and natural beauty. There’s a reason why it’s called Big Sky Country. Even the large towns are small, and the small towns are plentiful. Montana is the fourth largest U.S. state by landmass and the eighth smallest by population.

When deciding on the best place to live in Montana, you have to consider your own wants and needs, of course. Do you need easy access to great health care, for example? How about excellent schools? Just be certain that wherever you live in Montana, you’ll have access to some of the best outdoor recreation available.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Living In Montana?

Anyone beginning the process of deciding where to live and ultimately buying a house –especially in a state they are unfamiliar with – should do some thorough research on the state as a whole and the potential towns that might be a fit. For starters, here are some of the pros and cons of living in Big Sky Country.

Pros

• Cost of living: A dollar goes further in Montana, which ranks 15th among all U.S. states in cost of living.
• Neighborhood safety: If neighborhood safety is a priority, Montana ranks 14th best in the U.S. for lowest crime rate.
• Low property taxes: Montana currently ranks 21st among U.S. states for lowest effective real estate property taxes.
• Great recreation: Not many states enjoy the abundance of recreational adventures available to Montanans. With four seasons and terrain that includes mountains, lakes, rivers, forests and valleys, Montana has something for everyone. And Montanans have earned a reputation as freewheeling outdoors people who embrace all outdoor activities.
• Healthy living: According to U.S. News and World Report, Montana ranks 35th for health care quality and for quality of life.

Cons

• Harsh winters: Montana borders Canada and the winters are very long and very cold, especially at higher elevations. It’s not uncommon to have snow cover from November to May in many places. For those not accustomed to this, a long winter can cause physical and psychological distress. Driving on ice and snow-covered roads can be treacherous.
• Isolation: Outside of the handful of relatively large cities, Montana is made up of small towns that can be isolating to those unaccustomed to living in them. Often a trip to Walmart, a grocery store or doctor’s office can require a long drive to another town.
• Nondiverse economy: Montana has strong employment statistics, but many of the jobs are in the forestry, agriculture, mining and energy industries. If you’re not experienced in these fields or do not wish to work in them, your options can be limited.

Best Places To Live In Montana

The following table shows how each of our top ten best places to live in Montana ranked according to several key metrics surrounding safety, employment, housing and well-being.

1.   Fort Benton, MT

• Population: 1,396
• Median household income: $61,613
• Median home sold price: $230,000
• Median monthly rental price: $675
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 22.7
• Home affordability index: 1.27

Fort Benton is truly a historic town. Not only is it the oldest settlement in Montana, it is also the most upstream navigable port on the Mississippi River, earning it the distinction as the nation’s innermost port. The Fort Benton area, with its fertile soil, is known for growing an abundance of very high protein wheat. For such a small town, Fort Benton is packed with history, including access to the historic Old Forts Trail stretching all the way to Alberta, Canada, as well as the state of Montana’s Lewis & Clark Memorial. This charming hamlet in the middle of beautiful western landscapes scores highly in home affordability.

For more on the Fort Benton housing market, check out homes for sale in Fort Benton and Fort Benton housing market trends.

2.    Three Forks, MT

• Population: 2,084
• Median household income: $70,405
• Median home sold price: $529,500
• Median monthly rental price: $1,151
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 24.0
• Home affordability index: 0.63

The small town of Three Forks lies 30 miles northwest of the much larger Bozeman, Montana, in the southwest part of the state. It is so named because it rose up at the convergence of the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin rivers in what is considered to be the official start of the great Missouri River. All of these waters are highly prized by sportsmen for some of the best trout fishing in the world. The city’s Headwaters Trail System consists of 12 miles of paved former rail lines that end at the Missouri Headwaters State Park. Abundant recreational opportunities help Three Forks rank as number one in the state for well-being.

Interested in Three Forks real estate? Research homes for sale in Three Forks and Three Forks housing market trends.

3. Dillon, MT

• Population: 3,930
• Median household income: $39,488
• Median home sold price: $270,500
• Median monthly rental price: $803
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 34.9
• Home affordability index: 0.69

Dillon is the county seat of Beaverhead County and, while still a small town, the largest city in sparsely populated extreme southwestern Montana. Surrounded by sprawling ranches and public lands, 11 mountain ranges and a world-class trout stream in the Beaverhead River, Dillon was named one of “America’s prettiest towns” by Forbes magazine in 2010. Dillon remains a vibrant economic hub for the area as railroads ship farm products and minerals produced in the region. With great history as an important 19th century western settlement, along with outstanding recreation opportunities in the region, Dillon is considered one of the best places to live in Montana for families.

To investigate Dillon further, check out homes for sale in Dillon and Dillon housing market trends.

4. Clancy, MT

• Population: 1,902
• Median household income: $90,982
• Median home sold price: $610,000
• Median monthly rental price: $860
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 26.5
• Home affordability index: 0.71

Residents of Clancy enjoy small, mountain-town living with the benefit of being able to work in the Montana state capitol of Helena, which is just a 12 mile drive to the north along Interstate 15. A gem of Clancy is the Jefferson County Museum, which has two galleries. The first focuses on the rich history of the area going back to its 19th century mining days, while the other hosts traveling exhibits. But the biggest draw to Clancy is the natural beauty of the surrounding areas, including the nearby Elkhorn Mountains. Both the moderately challenging Willard Creek Trailhead and the more difficult Crow Creek Trail are close enough for daily hikes through forests and along streams – it’s not unusual to see moose and other wildlife. Incredible views of the town and mountains can be found by climbing to the 6,100 foot elevation overlook at Strawberry Butte.

If living in Clancy sounds intriguing, check out homes for sale in Clancy and Clancy housing market trends.

5. West Yellowstone, MT

• Population: 1,096
• Median household income: $55,403
• Median home sold price: $772,450
• Median monthly rental price: $641
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 39.0
• Home affordability index: 0.34

West Yellowstone is located in southern Montana near the Wyoming border. It’s known as a gateway to the vast Yellowstone National Park, a jewel of the American west for its natural beauty, outstanding recreational opportunities and abundant wildlife. For this reason, West Yellowstone’s economy is centered around tourism, with an estimated four million visitors each year, including many from China.

As a place where people who hike, bike, fish, raft, ski and snowshoe in the park can dine and find a warm bed nearby, West Yellowstone exudes a vibe of energy, hospitality and fun. Visitors can get a close-up and informative experience of the bears, wolves and other wildlife they’ll see in the park at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.

To explore West Yellowstone further, check out homes for sale in West Yellowstone and West Yellowstone housing market trends.

6. White Sulphur Springs, MT

• Population: 1,123
• Median household income: $51,352
• Median home sold price: $507,500
• Median monthly rental price: $660
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 26.8
• Home affordability index: 0.48

The town of White Sulphur Springs, county seat of Meagher County, is surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountains, forests, rivers and wildlife that Montana has to offer. It is one of the anchor communities along the 71-mile Kings Hill Scenic Byway, from which hundreds of gravel roads lead adventurers into spectacular country. Lots of visitors keep this tightknit community busy – in fact, the unemployment rate is zero. Winter sports are easily accessible, from downhill skiing at Showdown, to cross-country skiing at Nordic Crest and 200 miles of snowmobiling at Kings Hill. After all that action, soothe tired muscles with a soak in one of the town’s restorative natural hot springs.

To discover more about White Sulphur Springs, check out homes for sale in White Sulphur Springs and White Sulphur Springs housing market trends.

7. Choteau, MT

• Population: 1,826
• Median household income: $55,673
• Median home sold price: $220,000
• Median monthly rental price: $879
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 26.3
• Home affordability index: 1.20

To the long list of fantastic outdoor recreation offered by so many idyllic Montana mountain towns (it’s a short drive to the stunning Glacier National Park), Choteau adds archeological exploration and birdwatching. The area has active digs due to several important dinosaur fossil discoveries, many off which are on exhibit at the Two Medicine Dinosaur Center. At the Freezeout Wildlife Management Area, birders can view impressive spring and fall migrations. The bustling mountain town of Choteau has plenty of iconic western establishments, such as the Outpost Deli, Log Cabin Café, Antler Bar, Livery Saloon and Buck’s Sporting Goods.

If you think Choteau might suit your lifestyle, explore homes for sale in Choteau and Choteau housing market trends.

8. Conrad, MT

• Population: 2,758
• Median household income: $49,167
• Median home sold price: $202,000
• Median monthly rental price: $879
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 26.7
• Home affordability index: 1.15

Conrad is a small, tightknit agriculture and ranching community on the prairies of the Rocky Mountain Front in northern Montana. It lies near the Canadian border and is less than a 2-hour drive to Glacier National Park. Like most Montanans, Conrad residents embrace the outdoors, enjoying excellent fishing in the summers, hunting in spring and fall and winter sports for more than half the year. As a small town in Montana, Conrad is relatively big with a population nearing 3,000 and growing at 10% since 2020. Each June, the town hosts Whoop-Up Days, a citywide celebration that includes a parade and rodeo.

Conrad scores high on home affordability. To learn more about local real estate, check out homes for sale in Conrad and Conrad housing market trends.

9. Manhattan, MT

• Population: 1,884
• Median household income: $60,625
• Median home sold price: $575,000
• Median monthly rental price: $1,311
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 33.0
• Home affordability index: 0.50

Manhattan is a small, quiet, agricultural community near the Gallatin River in southwest Montana. Placing number one for well-being in our ranking of Montana cities, this Manhattan enjoys a different kind of skyline than the big city in New York – just east of town is Sacagawea Peak, the tallest mountain in the Bridger Range. Manhattans have easy access to the popular trailhead that climbs 2,000 feet to Sacagawea summit. Manhattan maintains its singular identity while enjoying the benefits of having a much larger city, Bozeman, just a 30-minute drive away on Interstate 90. In fact, the town is growing as more people who work in Bozeman seek the quiet and more affordable housing in Manhattan.

If you’re thinking of moving to Manhattan, start by looking at homes for sale in Manhattan and Manhattan housing market trends.

10. Libby, MT

• Population: 2,745
• Median household income: $39,044
• Median home sold price: $300,000
• Median monthly rental price: $562
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 34.79
• Home affordability index: 0.62

Libby is the largest town and the county seat of Lincoln County in extreme northwestern Montana. One of its distinctive natural features is the Kootenai Falls, a breathtaking 300-foot drop of rushing water on the Kootenai River and one of the largest waterfalls in America by water flow. The lakes, rivers and trails in the Kootenai National Forest are pristine in this remote part of the American west. In the warmer months, the Libby Farmer’s Market meets every Thursday. Live music plays every Friday night at Cabinet Mountain Brewing. Big summer events in Libby include the Riverfront Blues Festival, the Kootenai River Stampede Rodeo and the Yaak River Music Festival.

If you’re intrigued about living in Libby, start by looking at homes for sale in Libby and Libby housing market trends.

4 More Of The Best Cities In Montana

While it’s true that much of Montana’s population is dotted in small towns throughout this vast and beautiful state, there are also some exciting and growing small cities in The Land of the Shining Mountains. These towns offer all of the big box stores commonplace in America, plus top-level health care, unique regional dining experiences, great breweries and lots of the gung-ho attitude of the American west.

While agriculture, energy and mining still dominate the economy in rural Montana, Montana’s cities are seeing more companies in technology and other modern industries attracted to the state. This brings young professionals to Montana, many of whom are rebuilding parts of these historic frontier towns as they enjoy world-class outdoor recreation just outside of town. Retirees increasingly enjoy the affordability and peace and quiet while having excellent health care facilities nearby. And of course the safe neighborhoods and excellent schools are great for families.

1. Bozeman, MT

• Population: 51,574
• Median household income: $67,354
• Median home sold price: $676,416
• Median monthly rental price: $1,229
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 34.33
• Home affordability index: 0.47

If you’re a future-oriented young professional, then consider settling down in Bozeman. Popular among students, young professionals and families, Bozeman is home to Montana State University and a number of excellent public schools. Located in southern Montana, Bozeman boasts stunning views of the Bridger Mountains and the Rockies. Access in and out of town is easy with access to Route 90 and Highway 191. How’s the city life? Bozeman has a lively arts and culture scene with plentiful art galleries, theaters, festivals and concerts.

Explore Bozeman, Montana, home listings today.

2. Billings, MT

• Population: 115,689
• Median household income: $63,608
• Median home sold price: $422,450
• Median monthly rental price: $965
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 28.37
• Home affordability index: 0.71

As the most populous city in Montana, Billings has a little something for everyone. Its stellar school district attracts young families, while millennials are drawn to the city for its job opportunities and fun, laid-back nightlife. Billings has a low cost of living and relaxed, outdoorsy landscape that provides older homeowners with an excellent place to retire.

Billings offers a stellar combination of the great outdoors and a bustling city life. Home to the famous Rimrocks, Billings offers excellent hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking. Located on the Yellowstone River, Billings also offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing and other water-related activities. The busy community events calendar includes the annual Big Sky International Balloon Rendezvous.

To learn more explore homes for sale in Billings and Billings housing market trends.

3. Missoula, MT

• Population: 73,300
• Median household income: $54,423
• Median home sold price: $543,703
• Median monthly rental price: $971
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 36.91
• Home affordability index: 0.47

Located in the Northern Rockies in western Montana, Missoula is a popular city for people who want the amenities of a larger town along with access to fantastic outdoor recreation. Trout fishing, hiking, mountain biking and kayaking are all popular sports in Missoula. Just a short drive from the suburbs is an array of beautiful landscapes, including Mount Jumbo. But like other cities in Montana, Missoula also has plenty to offer in terms of arts, culture, shopping and dining, and the main campus of the University of Montana is located here.

Explore Missoula, Montana, home listings today or check out our Missoula, Montana, Housing Market Report for more information. 

4. Helena, MT

• Population: 32,060
• Median household income: $59,712
• Median home sold price: $449,725
• Median monthly rental price: $880
• Housing cost-to-income ratio: 32.56
• Home affordability index: 0.63

Best known as the capital city of Montana, Helena has a rich history and an atmosphere that cultivates excitement around social and political activities. Located halfway between two of America’s great national parks – Glacier and Yellowstone – Helena residents have ample outdoor activities available to them.

Helena’s affordable neighborhoods and suburban feel attract families and young professionals, and its cultural attractions and activities keep them there. Each mid-summer, the Last Chance Stampede rodeo and fair takes place at the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds. From concerts and a teeming art scene to fishing trips at Lake Helena, this down-to-earth community may be for you.

Explore Helena, Montana, home listings today or check out our Helena, Montana, Housing Market Report for more information. 

The Bottom Line

If you’re a person who spends a lot of your free time in the outdoors – whether it’s hunting, fishing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking or skiing – you can’t find a much better place to live than Montana. Pretty much any town in the state, whether large or small, has instant access to world class outdoor recreation. Montana’s excellent affordability, low crime and freedom-loving attitude makes it an excellent place for young professionals, families and retirees alike.

If you’re serious about a move to Montana and are ready to begin the home buying process, you can get started online today.

Methodology: Finding The Best Places To Live In In Montana

Rocket Homes^SM collected and analyzed the most recent data on 12 key local and countywide metrics to give us insight into the top cities best for living. The 96 most populated cities analyzed are home to 61% of U.S. residents living in Montana. The metrics used in this study include the violent crime rate, property crime rate, unemployment rate, google search volume, median rent, well-being index, median monthly income, median monthly housing costs, median days on market for homes, median home list price and Freddie Mac primary mortgage market survey interest rates. Some of these metrics were then used to calculate housing cost to income ratio and home affordability index. These metrics were chosen based on public data availability and topical relevance. Metrics from the U.S. Census are based on 2021 ACS 5-year estimates. In one case, county-level data was used because data is not recorded at the local level.

The housing cost to income ratio was calculated by taking the median monthly housing costs divided by the median monthly income to get the average percentage of income spent on housing costs in a household. The home affordability index was calculated using median listing price for homes in that city, interest rate from Freddie Mac primary mortgage market survey, and median yearly income. To interpret the indices, a value equal to or greater than 1 means that the average person has enough income to qualify for a mortgage in that area. The calculation assumes a down payment of 20% of the home price and a qualifying ratio of 25%.

Each data category was normalized and transformed into a range of points for scoring and comparison. Cities with violent crime rates greater than or equal to 55 and property crime rates greater than or equal to 65 were removed from the ranking. Weights were then applied to each metric depending on their individual importance in the study. The weighted scores for each metric were summed to create the overall Best Places To Live Score for each city. The final scores are sorted to produce the final rankings.

Other metrics considered without weight: