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The 10 Best Places to Live in Montana
By Susan Doktor MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Montana, also known as the “Treasure State,” is a vast and beautiful region in the western United States. It’s bordered by Canada in the north, North Dakota and South Dakota in the east, Wyoming and Idaho in the south, and Idaho in the west. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and friendly communities, Montana is a popular destination for those seeking a quieter, more rural way of life. With a population of just over one million people, Montana is the fourth-largest state in the US in terms of land area, but has a low population density, which means that there are many great places to live that offer a more peaceful, laid-back lifestyle.
If you’re considering a move to Montana, it can be challenging to decide where to settle down. From the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rolling plains of the east, Montana has a diverse range of landscapes, each with its own unique character and charm. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to live in Montana, taking into account factors such as cost of living, quality of life, community amenities and access to outdoor recreation. Whether you’re a retiree, a young family or a professional looking for a change of pace, there’s a place in Montana that’s perfect for you.
Table of Contents
- Best Places to Live in Montana
- Best Places to Live in Montana FAQs
- How We Chose the Best Places to Live in Montana
- Summary of Our Guide to the Best Places to Live in Montana
The 10 Best Places to Live in Montana
Bozeman
Located in southwest Montana, Bozeman is the fourth largest city in the state, with a population of about 54,000 individuals. It’s widely regarded as one of the best places to live in Montana, and for good reason.
One of the main draws of Bozeman is its incredible natural features and recreational opportunities. Surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, residents of Bozeman have easy access to world-class outdoor activities. It’s a great place if you enjoy soaking in hot springs. The city is also home to beautiful parks, including Peet’s Hill/Burke Park, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, Bozeman is just a short drive away from Yellowstone National Park. The abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities makes Bozeman a great place for those who enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle. It’s a skier’s haven and is often noted as one of the best places to ski in the US.
In addition to its natural beauty, Bozeman also boasts excellent educational institutions, including Montana State University, a top-tier research university with over 16,000 students. The university brings a vibrant energy to the city, with a diverse student body and a wide range of cultural and intellectual events. Bozeman’s excellent public schools also make it a great place to raise a family. Additionally, the city’s cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities of similar size, making it an affordable place to live.
Belgrade
Belgrade is largely a rural community, but it’s a quick 15-minute drive to Bozeman, a relatively large city by Montana standards. Belgrade is a great place to live if you want the best of both worlds — it combines the peace and quiet of country life with the vibrant aspects of big city life nearby.
Situated in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, residents of Belgrade have easy access to a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities. The area is surrounded by towering mountain ranges — including the Bridger, Gallatin and Madison ranges — offering endless possibilities for hiking, skiing and other outdoor activities.
Belgrade is already one of the fastest growing cities in Montana. According to local experts, the city is also well-positioned for economic growth. In 2019, the city released a new growth policy. The plan includes revitalization of the city’s downtown area and will bring new hotels, retail and commercial space to the area. It also seeks to control sprawl, with an emphasis on filling in the gaps between housing developments, rather than expanding into the city’s outskirts. Home values in the city are rising at a modest rate, but the growth policy calls for the development of affordable housing. The city is emphasizing the need for green space attached to all new subdivisions.
Billings
Billings is the largest city in Montana, with a population of over 110,000 people. Located in the southern part of the state, it offers a perfect blend of modern urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities.
One of the main draws of Billings is its thriving economy, with job opportunities available in industries such as healthcare, education, finance and energy. Forbes named Billings as one of the best small cities for business and careers in 2019.
Billings scores well for quality of life. The city is home to Montana State University Billings, which offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Billings has a low cost of living compared to other major urban centers in the US, which means that residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Additionally, Billings is known for its friendly, welcoming community, with plenty of opportunities for socializing and meeting new people. The city is home to numerous parks, trails and outdoor recreation areas, which are perfect for hiking, biking and other outdoor activities.
Billings is an ideal location for those who appreciate culture and the arts. The city has a vibrant downtown area, with numerous restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. The Alberta Bair Theater, for example, hosts a range of performances and events throughout the year, from live music to theater productions. The Yellowstone Art Museum, which is located in downtown Billings, features a collection of over 7,000 works of art, including contemporary and historical pieces. All in all, Billings offers a unique and dynamic living experience that is hard to find elsewhere in Montana.
Dillon
Dillon, Montana is an ideal location for anyone looking for a small town atmosphere, a greater-than-great outdoors, and an opportunity to learn about the region’s history and culture.
One of the most popular attractions in the area is Bannack State Park, a well-preserved ghost town that provides visitors with an immersive experience of Montana’s frontier history. The park offers guided tours, gold panning and camping opportunities, making it a perfect weekend getaway spot for families and history buffs.
The Beaverhead County Museum, located in the heart of downtown Dillon, is a treasure trove of local history and art. The museum has an impressive collection of artifacts from the region, including photographs, clothing and weaponry from the pioneer days. The museum hosts regular events and exhibits for anyone interested in learning about the area’s heritage.
Dillon is also home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. The town is nestled in the heart of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, which provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting and camping. Additionally, the nearby Clark Canyon Reservoir is a popular spot for boating and fishing, and the Beaverhead River is a world-renowned fly-fishing destination. With its abundant wildlife and spectacular mountain views, Dillon is a nature lover’s dream. And it’s one of Montana’s safest places to live, with a crime rate that’s 89% lower than the overall state crime rate.
Whitefish
With a population of about 8,000, Whitefish ranks as the 16th largest city in Montana. Located in Northern Montana, the town is just a short hop from Glacier National Park and its many scenic highlights. Winter, spring, summer or fall, the park makes living a joy with its crystal clear lakes, glacier-capped peaks, fabulous ski resorts, majestic falls and abundant wildlife. National Geographic named the town among its 25 Best Places to Ski — which is reason enough to move there for some people!
Established in 1900, Whitefish is home to many historic buildings. The town also boasts a charming downtown district, with a wide variety of restaurants, shops and galleries. Whitefish residents looking for international experiences can also take a quick jaunt to Canada: it’s just 60 miles away.
One of the benefits of living in Whitefish is access to high-quality healthcare. North Valley Hospital, located in Whitefish, offers a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical services and physical therapy. Additionally, Whitefish is home to numerous health clinics and medical practices, which means that residents have a range of options when it comes to choosing a healthcare provider.
Whitefish is also an excellent place to live if you’re raising kids. The town is served by the Whitefish School District, which includes two elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. Whitefish High School, in particular, is known for its excellent academic programs and extracurricular activities. The school has a high graduation rate and offers a range of advanced courses, including AP classes and dual enrollment courses. Additionally, Whitefish is home to Flathead Valley Community College, which offers a range of two-year degree programs and vocational training opportunities.
One note of caution we should mention is that Whitefish may not present the economic opportunities many other Montana cities offer. Many Whitefish residents benefit from jobs related to tourism. The median income in the town is relatively low at around $34,000. While most costs of living, such as food and medical care, are on par with national and statewide averages, real estate prices in the region are extremely high. According to Zillow, the average cost for a home in the Whitefish area is a whopping $851,000. Renters account for about 40% of the town’s residents, which is slightly higher than the national average
Missoula
Affectionately known as The Garden City, Missoula is located in northwest Montana in a lovely valley near the Clark Fork River. The township earns its nickname on account of the vast number of trees and lush greenery that make up its landscape. Both the Bitterroot and Clark Fork rivers meander through the town. The Rattlesnake Wilderness Area, just minutes from downtown Missoula, offers over 70,000 acres of stunning wilderness and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the Lolo National Forest, located just outside the city, offers even more opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Missoula’s climate is more akin to a city in the Pacific Northwest than it is to many other Rocky Mountain towns’. February brings high temperatures near 40 degrees: practically balmy compared with much of Montana. Missoula residents enjoy a host of year-round recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, fishing and rafting.
In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Missoula also offers a variety of educational opportunities. The University of Montana, located in the heart of the city, is one of the state’s largest universities and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is also home to the Montana Museum of Art and Culture, which features exhibitions of contemporary and historical art. The city is also home to a number of public and private schools, including several charter schools and alternative education programs.
Missoula is the second largest city in Montana, with a population of about 73,000 residents. The service sector and a large number of small businesses support the community. Unemployment in Missoula is lower than it is nationally. Overall, when it comes to economic opportunities, it’s one of the top locations in the state.
Glasgow
Glasgow has a rich history that is reflected in its many historic buildings and landmarks. The town was founded in 1887 as a railroad stop and grew quickly into a regional hub for agriculture and commerce. The town has historic charm to spare. Many of its original buildings still stand today. Glasgow offers a mix of architectural styles, ranging from Victorian ornate to the more controlled, stately Arts & Crafts style. The town also boasts some notable examples of WPA-built public buildings. The Glasgow Area Chamber of Commerce provides guided tours of the historic downtown area.
Glasgow is a close-knit community that offers a high quality of life for its residents. The town has a low crime rate, affordable housing options, and a strong school system. The cost of living in Glasgow is 7% lower than the statewide average. The town also represents a serious housing bargain: home prices are 35% lower there than the national average.
Healthcare, government and retail jobs dominate the job market in Glasgow, but agriculture, forestry and fishing also play a significant role in supporting the area’s population. Glasgow ranks 23rd on the list of Montana’s largest cities with a population of around 3,000 residents. While certainly tiny, it nonetheless serves as a center for many Eastern Montana towns.
There are plenty of recreational opportunities in the area, including hunting, fishing, hiking, and boating on nearby Fort Peck Lake. Glasgow is located near the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, which covers over one million acres of prairie, badlands and river habitat. The refuge is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, pronghorn antelope and over 200 species of birds. The refuge is known for its hiking trails — and be sure to bring a camera.
King Arthur Park
With a population of about 2,000 residents, King Arthur Park is a tiny community situated within the city limits of Bozeman. Life in the neighborhood is a little less hectic than in other parts of the city, but all of the cultural perks of city living are only steps away.
Home prices in King Arthur Park are higher than elsewhere in the city; the median household income is nearly $20,000 higher than in other parts of Montana and about $30,000 higher than the national average. The neighborhood is occupied by a younger-than-average population: the median age in King Arthur Park is just 29 years old. The neighborhood spans only around 200 acres but is home to the lovely little Oak Springs Park.
King Arthur Park is a safe little enclave within Bozeman, with a lower crime rate than the city as a whole. It’s considered a great place to live for families. Children from the neighborhood attend school in the Bozeman district. According to Public School Review, schools in Bozeman have an average ranking of 10/10, which is in the top 5% of Montana public schools
Butte
Butte, Montana has much to recommend it: it offers a blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, historic charm and affordability.
The city is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, surrounded by gorgeous forests, lakes and rivers. Truly, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing in the nearby mountains, as well as exploring the historic mining sites and ghost towns that dot the landscape. Butte is also home to several city parks and golf courses, offering even more opportunities for outdoor recreation. It’s no wonder that Butte is a popular destination for tourists and a great place for nature and outdoor sports lovers to call home.
The cost of living in Butte is slightly lower than the national average. According to Zillow, the average price of a home in the city is $252,309, compared to the national average of $328,745.
Butte also has a lot to offer in terms of education. The city is home to Montana Tech, a highly respected engineering and science university that has been ranked as one of the best public schools in the West by U.S. News & World Report. The university brings an ever-changing, diverse student body and a range of cultural and intellectual events to the city.
However, while public services in Butte, including its police and fire departments, are well-regarded, the city’s crime rate is a negative mark on its record. It is generally considered a fairly dangerous city. Its crime rate is 48 per 1,000 residents, while the national average is closer to 16 per 1,000 residents.
Polson
With a population of just over 5,000 residents, you’re not going to experience a big city lifestyle there. But don’t let its diminutive size fool you. The town definitely punches above its weight.
Polson has a diverse economy that includes tourism, agriculture and manufacturing. The town is home to a number of small businesses and the area is known for its cherry orchards and other agricultural products. Additionally, Polson has a number of manufacturing companies that provide jobs for local residents. The town is also home to a thriving healthcare industry, with several medical facilities and clinics in the area. With its diverse economy, Polson offers residents a range of employment opportunities.
Polson also has a strong education system to recommend it. The Polson School District has several schools that offer high-quality education to students from preschool through high school. The district is known for its strong emphasis on academic achievement and has a number of programs that help students succeed. Additionally, the town is home to Flathead Valley Community College, which offers a range of degree and certificate programs. With its strong education system, Polson is a great place to live for families with school-age children.
Polson is a long ways away from Yellowstone National Park. Glacier National Park is nearer by, but still represents a considerable drive. But don’t you worry. Polson has its own scenic and recreational highlights. It’s situated on the southern shore of Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. The lake occupies about 200 square miles of water and offers 185 miles of shoreline. It’s ideal for sail and motor boating, kayaking, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, and camping, not to mention simple picnicking. During the summer, dozens of roadside stands and farmer’s markets pop up around the lake, treating residents to locally grown roadside stands along the east shore that offer a variety of locally grown cherries, plums, apples and other fruits.
Polson residents are fortunate to live nearby the Mission Mountains, one of the many smaller ranges that comprise the Rockies. The Mission Range is a popular destination for spring, summer and fall hiking. Accomplished skiers can enjoy wilderness skiing at its best, too.
Other Places We Considered:
- Four Corners
- Livingston
- Helena
- East Helena
- Lolo
- Glendive
- Hardin
- Orchard Homes
- Kalispell
- Lewistown
Best Places to Live in Montana FAQs
How We Chose the Best Places to Live in Montana
It wasn’t easy! There are so many lovely places in the state and many offer the same benefits, such as an outstanding landscape and easy-going lifestyle.
To begin with, we chose locations in all parts of the state. We then researched such statistics as cost of living, crime rate, average income and housing. We chose places that provide good schools and medical services. Finally, we considered the recreational opportunities each town had to offer.
Summary of Our Guide to the Best Places to Live In Montana
Montana is a great choice for people who treasure natural beauty and who love outdoor activities. The state is largely rural so if you enjoy living in a tight-knit community and close ties to your neighbors, Montana will more than satisfy your desire. Montana is a relatively inexpensive place to live, with ample job opportunities, but don’t expect to earn the highest salary. Finally, Montana’s climate can be harsh. But if you don’t mind wintry weather and enjoy the recreational opportunities offered by a mountainous region, by all means, go for it!
