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Best Places To Live in Montana

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Best Places To Live in Montana

Pondering a move to Big Sky Country? Check out the best cities in the state to hang your (cowboy) hat.

By Livability on November 10, 2023

If you’re interested in living a life rich in outdoor recreation, you will be in good company residing in Montana. The state is arguably home to some of the country’s most diverse and majestic natural beauty, from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the sweeping Great Plains. While the scenery might be unmatched, new residents can also take advantage of exceptionally low property taxes, vibrant city centers, surprisingly good food and abundant historical sites and landmarks. If that doesn’t make you ready to move to Montana, we’re not sure what will. 

Billings

A city view at sunset time in Billings, Montana.
iStock/peeterv
A city view at sunset time in Billings, Montana.

Why is Billings a great place to live in Montana?

Billings is the largest city in the state of Montana, offering residents a cheerful blend of urban amenities and scenic landscapes. Downtown is rich in cultural attractions, local shopping and fine dining establishments, providing easy access to the nearby Yellowstone River. Because the city is also known as a commercial hub in the region, you can find a strong and diverse range of industries in the area, including healthcare and medical services, energy and natural resources and education. A few of the top employers include Billings Clinic, ExxonMobil, Phillips 66, and Montana State University – Billings. Additionally, the city is considered to be one of the more affordable places to live in Montana

Is Billings a family-friendly place to live?

Billings is generally considered a family-friendly place to live because of its ever-growing list of amenities, services and activities that cater to growing families. You can find a diverse variety of public and private schools, as well as alternative education options and higher education institutions like Montana State University – Billings. The area has a reasonably low crime rate for a city of its size, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions in the region, such as ZooMontana, Pictograph Cave State Park, Billings Depot, Reef Indoor Water Park and Children’s Museum of Montana. You can also find a good number of parks, playgrounds and green spaces throughout the city and its surrounding areas. 

Read more about living in Billings, MT.

Bozeman

A view of downtown in Bozeman, Montana, which is one of the best places to live in the state.

Why Bozeman is a great city to live in Montana.

Tucked in the heart of the Gallatin Valley, Bozeman is a vibrant college town that seamlessly blends the pursuit of higher education with riveting outdoor adventures. Home to Montana State University, a top-tier research university, the city boasts a flourishing cultural scene, a multitude of dining options and a strong sense of community. Bozeman appeals to anyone who wants to balance academic and professional pursuits with an active outdoor lifestyle thanks to its upward-trending growth and development and easy access to hiking trails, skiing, and world-class fly fishing. And if you like to be near nature, the glamping scene in Bozeman is next level. 

What is the quality of life in Bozeman?

Bozeman, Montana, is generally considered to have a high quality of life. It has earned spots on lists for best places to live, best places to retire, best places to raise children, best places to visit, best ski towns and best college towns. The combination of outdoor activities, a growing economy, educational opportunities, healthcare services and diversity in restaurants and breweries make it a top contender for those interested in moving to Montana. However, it is worth noting that as it has gained popularity over the years, Bozeman has seen an increase in its overall cost of living. Some studies show that the cost of living here is around 22% higher than the national average, with median home prices around $650,000. 

Read more about living in Bozeman, MT.

Butte

A view of downtown Butte, Montana, overlooking the mountains.

Why Butte is a great city in Montana.

Tucked within the picturesque landscapes of the West is Butte, Montana. This hidden gem is known among the locals for its remarkable marriage of natural beauty and historical significance. Because of its rich mining history, it’s occasionally called the “Richest Hill on Earth,” but its modern wealth arguably comes in the form of its majestic natural surroundings. Life here surrounds you with mountain ranges for skiing, forests for hiking and rivers for fishing. Within the city, you can find a vibrant arts and culture scene with appealing attractions like The Mother Lode Theatre and Butte-Silver Bow Arts Foundation. These benefits, coupled with the inviting atmosphere and abundance of local festivals and events, make Butte an increasingly popular choice for anyone wanting to be part of an authentic and energetic community. 

Is it expensive to live in Butte, Montana?

Butte is more affordable than many comparable cities in the country. Studies suggest it is around 8% less expensive than the national average and on par with the overall state average. The increasing job market makes it more likely to find jobs here now than when the city depended on mining as its primary source of stability. You can now find positions in a variety of modern industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, tourism, retail and technology. The average income in the area is around $71,000, while the median house prices hover around $330,000.

Read more about living in Butte, MT.

Great Falls

River's Edge Trail in Great Falls, MT. Butte Falls is a best place to live in Montana.
©Journal Communications/Fern Photography
River’s Edge Trail in Great Falls, Montana.

Why is Great Falls a great city to live in Montana?

Nestled in the heart of the state and often called the “Electric City,” Great Falls has a rich heritage in hydroelectric power plants and a warm, inviting community spirit. If you choose to live here, you can expect to enjoy easy access to outdoor adventures, an abundance of cultural attractions and strong community bonds. It doesn’t hurt that the cost of living in Great Falls is a breath of fresh air compared to many comparable cities in the country. This scenic city is around 10% more affordable compared to the national average. It also comes in about 35% lower than the cost of living in Bozeman and 15% lower than the cost of living in Missoula. With extra money in your pocket, you can take full advantage of the city’s rich arts and culture scene at The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art, the Great Falls Symphony Orchestra and the Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts. 

What is there to do in Great Falls?

Great Falls, Montana, offers an excellent range of activities for residents and tourists of all ages. Giant Springs State Park and Fish Hatchery is home to crystal-clear waters, scenic trails and educational tours. Many enjoy stepping back in time at the famed Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which features engaging exhibits, numerous artifacts and displays that bring to life the challenges of some of the country’s early westward explorers. Other popular destinations include the C.M. Russell Museum, First People’s Buffalo Jump State Park, and Malmstrom Air Force Base Museum. 

Read more about living in Great Falls, MT.

Helena

A drone view of the Montana State Capitol, in Helena, on a sunny afternoon.
iStock/Ultima_Gaina
A drone view of the Montana State Capitol, in Helena, on a sunny afternoon.

Why is Helena a great place to live in Montana? 

Nestled comfortably amidst the rugged Rocky Mountains, Helena is the place to be for anyone wanting a rich combination of natural beauty and modern, small-town charm. This unique blending of the past and present, along with the majestic backdrop of Montana’s signature landscapes, make the state’s capital city an appealing place to live for those seeking a strong sense of community, outdoor adventures and innumerable cultural delights. 

Outdoor enthusiasts understandably adore life in the heart of the Treasure State. Helena captures the imagination of anyone who wants to soak up the natural splendors of the region. Hiking trails wind through the mesmerizing Helena National Forest, fishing awaits in the nearby Missouri River, and breathtaking rock formations can be seen by boat at the nearby Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. 

What is the job market like in Helena? 

While the capital of Montana earned its stripes as a boomtown with the discovery of gold in 1864, its modern economy is a touch more modern and diverse. You can find numerous job opportunities in industries such as government, healthcare, education, and tourism. Paired with a slower pace of life than comparable cities around the United States and the easy access to outdoor activities, life in Helena offers a uniquely healthy work-life balance to residents who are keen on pursuing professional and personal interests.

Read more about living in Helena, MT.

Livingston

The historic centre of Livingston, MT, is near Yellowstone National Park.
iStock/miroslav_1
The historic centre of Livingston, MT, is near Yellowstone National Park.

Why Livingston is a great place to live in Montana

Tucked in the Gallatin Valley in the southwestern corner of the state, Livingston stands as a testament to the spirit of the old American West. The city’s rich heritage, signature landscapes and vibrant community spirit make it a captivating place to live, work and play. Its recognition as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, which is the world’s first national park, means residents and visitors have unparalleled access to enjoy innumerable outdoor activities. The multitude of lakes, mountains and forests provide a rich playground for anyone who wants to spend their days hiking, backpacking, fishing and participating in summer water sports. 

While it was established as the division headquarters of the Northern Pacific Railway, the modern-day Livingston has seen an uptick in industries like manufacturing, construction, accommodation and food services, as well as mining, quarrying and oil and gas extraction. You also stand a good chance of uncovering career opportunities in agricultural sectors such as forestry, fishing and hunting. But if that isn’t your thing, Livingston is known for its welcoming environment for writers and creators; in fact, Livingston is home to more writers than any other city in America. As far as the cost of living is concerned, median house prices are between $250,000 and $350,000, while rentals can range from $800 for a one-bedroom to $1,800 or more for a single-family home. 

What is Livingston known for?

Originally founded as a railroad town in the 1880s, Livingston quickly became a hub for all manner of trade and transportation. You can easily spot glimpses of the city’s past in the historic downtown district, which contains a number of preserved buildings that harken back to the early pioneering days of cowboys, pioneers and prospectors.

Read more about living in Livingston, MT.

Missoula

Missoula, Montana, is located along the Clark Fork River.

Why is Missoula a great city to live in Montana? 

Life in Missoula is a dream for anyone wanting the perfect blend of nature and community. Tucked away in the heart of the northern Rockies, this historic city captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its scenic landscapes and curious hint of urban flair. In addition to its alluring natural beauty, Missoula has developed quite a reputable destination for those seeking a healthy balance of professional and personal passions. 

Surrounding yourself with rugged mountains, sweeping rivers and vast forests makes it remarkably easy to get outside and enjoy recreational activities all year long. Whether you want to engage in hiking and biking or skiing and snowboarding, the possibilities for local adventure are seemingly endless. The Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Clark Fork River are among the top spots locals frequent to go fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. 

Why are people moving to Missoula?

The Missoula job market has evolved in recent years to include a variety of new industries and jobs. You can find a healthy diversity in sectors, ranging from research and education at the University of Montana to tech startups and entrepreneurial ventures in the heart of the city. Missoula’s growing reputation as a creative and innovative hub has created job openings in fields like software development, data analysis and digital marketing. Of course, thanks to its unparalleled natural beauty and reputation as a tourist attraction, you can also find positions in a variety of outdoor and recreation industries, such as tour companies, retail gear and event planning. But it isn’t just business in Missoula. The city has a reputation for being a welcoming and inclusive community. It is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the country, adding to the list of reasons people are clamoring to move to this Montana city

Read more about living in Missoula, MT.

Whitefish

A winter landscape on Big Mountain in Whitefish, MT, overlooking Glacier National Park. Whitefish is one of the best places to live in Montana.
iStock/ronniechua
A winter landscape on Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana, overlooking Glacier National Park.

Why is Whitefish a great place to live in Montana? 

Outdoor adventure meets small-town charm in Whitefish. Known as the gateway to Glacier National Park, this city sits comfortably in the northern realm of the state in Flathead Valley, where locals are surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. Warmer months draw residents outdoors to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding, while the cold and snowy months transform the city into a winter wonderland rich in skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Paired with its charming downtown that is bursting with local shops, restaurants, cafes and galleries, it’s easy to see why Whitefish appeals to people of all ages. 

Whitefish makes it easy to fill your social calendar with its innumerable events, activities and local attractions. Whitefish Mountain Resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, while the iconic Glacier National Park is a mere minutes away. You’ll often see locals participating in water sports such as kayaking, canoeing and fishing, as well as taking advantage of the mountain biking trails. Downtown offers a different sort of activity with its charming boutiques, local art galleries and many handmade crafts and souvenirs. And you wouldn’t want to miss out on the annual Whitefish Winter Carnival, a lively event that began in 1953 as a way to bring a little festive cheer to the town in the cold winter months.

Is it expensive to live in Whitefish? 

The real estate market in Whitefish won’t leave you wanting. You can find distinctive historic homes, contemporary mountain retreats, and everything in between. Life here does come at a price, though, with median home listing prices coming in at around $1.5 million. The booming market may present a challenge to some budgets but has undoubtedly led to an increase in local events, attractions and activities that make it an appealing place to purchase a vacation home — or visit each year.

Read more about living in Whitefish, MT.

Considering Moving to Montana?

Want to find a great place to live in Montana? We have numerous resources for moving to Montana as well as other places to live in the West. No matter where you want to end up, we can help you narrow down where to move and find other best places to live in the U.S.

Other Great Places To Live Near Montana

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