The Best Places to Live in Montana (2023)

Over a million people live in Montana, and that’s for good reason.

Montana is a state in the western region of the United States, known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged terrain, and enough outdoor recreational activities.

The state has many great places to live, each with unique charm and appeal. So, where should you choose to settle if you’re planning a move to Montana?

Let’s go through a few of the best places to live in Montana.

Bozeman

Bozeman is a great place to live, with a strong economy, a vibrant downtown area, and access to outdoor recreation.

Bozeman’s housing market can be competitive, but various options are available, from apartments and townhouses to single-family homes.

The cost of living can still be relatively high compared to some other cities in Montana, but it is still affordable compared to many larger urban areas.

Bozeman is a smaller city, so transportation is easy to navigate. The town has a local bus system, bike lanes, and walking trails, making it easy to get around.

Like many in Montana, the city is a hub for outdoor recreation, with easy access to hiking, skiing, fishing, and other outdoor activities. It is near Yellowstone National Park and several ski resorts.

Bozeman has a tight-knit community with a strong sense of local pride. There are tons of different great community events to enjoy the year. For example, music festival lovers will want to visit the Sweet Pea Festival.

Missoula 

Missoula is another college town with a population of around 75,000 people. Missoula is located near the Bitterroot Mountains and has easy access to many different outdoor activities. The Clark Fork River runs through town, providing opportunities for kayaking and fishing.

Missoula has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with many art galleries, concert venues, and theaters. 

The University of Montana provides opportunities for education and research. The university is known for its strong programs in creative writing, environmental studies, and Native American studies.

The city is also known for its sustainability initiatives and environmental commitment.

Billings

Billings is the biggest of Montana’s cities, so if you’re not looking to downsize too much, it might be the right choice for you. The city is a hub for healthcare, education, and energy and has a growing technology sector.

Billings is home to the Billings Clinic, the largest healthcare facility in the region. The city also has several other hospitals and medical centers.

Billings is near the Yellowstone River and has easy access to hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The city is also close to several national parks and wilderness areas.

Billings has several schools and colleges, including Montana State University Billings and Rocky Mountain College.

Billings is a good option if you’re looking for a cultural center for Montana living. The Yellowstone Art Museum has a collection of over 7,000 objects, including contemporary and historical art. There’s also the Western Heritage Center. This museum showcases the history and culture of the Yellowstone River Valley.

Helena

Helena is the state capital and has a population of around 32,000 people. It has a charming downtown area and access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and skiing.

Helena has a rich history, with many historic sites and buildings. Helena is located near the Helena National Forest and has easy hiking, biking, and skiing access. The Missouri River also runs through town, providing opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

Helena has a high quality of life, low crime rates, good healthcare, and a strong sense of community. Helena has several schools and colleges, including Carroll College, known for its strong nursing, engineering, and education programs.

Helena’s charming downtown area has unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The area has a strong sense of local pride and community.

Kalispell

Kalispell is located in northwest Montana and has a population of around 23,000. It is near Glacier National Park and offers access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and skiing.

Kalispell is located in the Flathead Valley and is surrounded by mountains and forests. The Flathead River also runs through town, providing opportunities for kayaking and fishing. It also offers easy access to Glacier National Park.

Kalispell has a strong sense of community, with many community events and activities throughout the year. Kalispell has several schools and colleges, including Flathead Valley Community College and Montana State University Northern.

So, if you’re looking for Montana real estate, Kalispell might be the place to invest. There are plenty of options for new homes.

Butte

Another smaller city you might want to consider is Butte.

Butte is located near several national forests, including Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, which offers hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting opportunities. This makes Butte a top choice for nature lovers.

Butte is known for its rich mining history. You can learn more about that history at places like the World Museum of Mining, the Berkeley Pit, and the Copper King Mansion.

Butte also isn’t a slacker when it comes to community events. Some options include the Montana Folk Festival, The Chinese New Year Parade, and Serb Fest, which offer opportunities to meet and connect with other residents.

Compared to other cities in Montana and the United States, Butte has a relatively low cost of living, with affordable housing, utilities, and transportation.

Despite its history and amenities, Butte still retains a small-town feel. It boasts a friendly and welcoming community that makes it easy to get involved and feel at home.

Places to Live In Montana: Now You Know

Ultimately, the best places to live in Montana will depend on your preferences and lifestyle. Do thorough research and explore the area in person before you make your final decision.

Are you ready to purchase your new Montana home? Contact us if you’re interested in homes in Kalispell.