Best Cities To Live In Montana (2026 Guide)
Last updated 03/15/2024 by
Benjamin LockeEdited by
Andrew LathamSummary:
This article explores the unique living experience in Montana, highlighting its rich history, diverse culture, and robust economy. Key cities like Billings and Bozeman are featured for their dynamic communities, quality healthcare, education, and growing job markets. Billings, known as “Magic City,” and Bozeman, with its stunning natural beauty, offer residents a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The article also touches on Belgrade’s growth and the overall appealing lifestyle in Montana.
Living in Montana offers a unique experience where a rich history, diverse culture, robust economy, and varied demographics converge. Steeped in a history that traces back to the Paleoindian Period, Montana is a tapestry of Native American, European, and pioneer influences, creating a distinctive culture known for its rugged individualism and deep-rooted traditions. When considering a move to Montana, these three cities should not be missed.
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Best cities to live in Montana
Billings
Founded in 1882 as a railroad hub by the Northern Pacific Railway, Billings, Montana, quickly earned the nickname “Magic City” due to its rapid growth. Named after Frederick H. Billings, the city has evolved from its early days into a vibrant and dynamic community. Billings seamlessly blends its rich historical roots with a forward-looking perspective, making it an appealing destination for both residents and visitors.
Billings snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $434,900 |
| Cost of Living | 91.731 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 54.97 incidents per 1,000 residents. (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Billings experiences a semi-arid climate with cold, snowy winters and warm summers. |
Billings healthcare
Despite the challenges faced in healthcare across various regions, Billings, Montana, stands out with its top-tier hospitals. Leading the way in the city is the Billings Clinic, acclaimed as the best hospital in Montana and recognized for its high-quality care and services.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Billings Hospitals | Billings Clinic is ranked #1 in Montana and recognized for its excellence in healthcare in the 2023-24 Best Hospitals rankings by U.S. News and World Report. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | Other hospitals in Billings, such as St. Vincent Healthcare, also provide high-quality medical services and care. |
Billings walkability
Billings, Montana, offers a diverse walkability landscape. While the city’s overall Walk Score suggests a general reliance on cars, certain neighborhoods stand out for their pedestrian-friendly features.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Billings has an average Walk Score of 35, indicating a moderate level of walkability. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Neighborhoods like North Elevation and Downtown Billings offer more walkable environments, with amenities and attractions within walking distance. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Billings varies significantly, with Downtown Billings being more pedestrian-friendly compared to more suburban areas. |
| City Ranking | While not ranked among the most walkable cities, Billings has neighborhoods that provide a pleasant walking experience. |
Billings education
Billings, Montana, offers a diverse educational landscape with a mix of highly ranked schools and districts. While Montana’s overall education system has its unique challenges, Billings has several schools that stand out for their performance and quality.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Billings Area School Districts | Billings features several well-regarded school districts. Rankings on Niche.com and U.S. News & World Report highlight the quality of these districts based on various metrics. |
| High Schools in Billings | Top high schools in the Billings area, such as Billings West High School and Skyview High School, are recognized for their academic excellence and college readiness. |
| Public School Performance | Montana’s public schools, including those in Billings, face unique challenges but also boast schools with strong academic performance. |
| Top Public Schools in Billings | Notable schools in Billings, such as Arrowhead School and Meadowlark School, are highly ranked for their educational quality and student performance. |
Billings jobs and economy
Billings, Montana, showcases a steady and evolving job market, with positive indicators in employment growth and salary levels. This economic stability positions Billings as an important economic center in the region.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Billings has experienced steady job market growth, with future job growth over the next ten years predicted to be 24.4%. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Billings is $64,017. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Billings is forecasted to grow by 9% by 2031, reflecting a positive economic outlook. |
| Recent Trends | Billings has shown resilience in its job market, with a steady increase in employment opportunities and a low unemployment rate. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The stable job market and economic growth in Billings contribute to its appeal as a destination for new residents and businesses. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Billings maintains a robust economy, marked by steady growth and a diverse range of employment opportunities. |
Bozeman
Founded by John Bozeman as a key route for pioneers and miners in 1863, Bozeman, Montana, has a rich history rooted in the American West. This vibrant city, nestled in the Rocky Mountains, is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Bozeman’s blend of historical charm and modern vitality makes it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.
Bozeman snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $708,906 |
| Cost of Living | 22% higher than the national average |
| Crime | 16.52 incidents per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Bozeman experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, offering diverse weather throughout the year. |
Bozeman healthcare
While Bozeman, Montana, may not have the same concentration of top-ranked hospitals as some larger cities, it still boasts reputable healthcare facilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bozeman Hospitals | Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital is highly rated for its medical and surgical services and is recognized for its performance in various adult procedures and conditions. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | While Bozeman may not have a large number of hospitals, facilities like Livingston Healthcare also provide quality medical services to the region. |
Bozeman walkability
Bozeman offers a unique walkability experience, with an average Walk Score that reflects a balance between pedestrian-friendly areas and those requiring transportation. The city’s layout and community planning emphasize walkability, particularly in downtown areas.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Bozeman has an average Walk Score of 47, indicating a moderate level of walkability, with some areas more accessible on foot than others. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Downtown Bozeman is particularly walkable, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and amenities within easy walking distance. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Bozeman varies by neighborhood, with downtown areas being more pedestrian-friendly compared to other parts of the city. |
| City Ranking | While not ranked among the most walkable large cities, Bozeman’s downtown area provides a pleasant and accessible walking experience. |
Bozeman education
Bozeman, Montana, is distinguished by its robust educational environment, underscored by its high-quality schools and prominent academic institutions. The city’s dedication to educational excellence is evident in various rankings and assessments.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bozeman School Districts | Bozeman’s school districts, notably Bozeman School District 7, are renowned for delivering outstanding education, as evidenced by their comprehensive educational programs and resources. |
| High Schools in Bozeman | Several high schools in Bozeman, such as Bozeman High School, are recognized for their academic achievements, with accolades and high rankings in state and national assessments. |
| Public School Performance | Public schools in Bozeman demonstrate a strong commitment to educational quality, with many achieving notable success in academic and extracurricular areas. |
| Top Public Schools in Bozeman | Specific schools in Bozeman, including Sacajawea Middle School, are highly regarded for their educational standards and are among the best in Montana. |
| Higher Education in Bozeman | Montana State University, located in Bozeman, is Montana’s largest university and a top-tier research institution, playing a significant role in the city’s educational landscape. |
Bozeman jobs and economy
Bozeman, Montana, is experiencing dynamic economic growth characterized by a robust job market, competitive salaries, and promising future job growth projections. This growth positions Bozeman as a significant economic player in the region.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | The job market in Bozeman has increased by 2.6% over the last year, indicating a growing job market. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Bozeman is approximately $52,665. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Bozeman over the next ten years is predicted to be 50.3%, which is significantly higher than the national average. |
| Recent Trends | Bozeman’s job market remains strong, with a low unemployment rate, suggesting a healthy economic environment. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The robust job market and economic growth in Bozeman are key factors attracting new residents and businesses to the area. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Bozeman’s economy is experiencing rapid growth, making it an increasingly important economic hub in Montana. |
Pro Tip
“Think of job opportunities like magnets. If a place has lots of job options that match your skills and dreams, it’s like a powerful force that brings stability and growth. But the trick is not to focus only on one thing. Look into different types of jobs, new industries, and even jobs you can do remotely. This way, you get the full picture of what’s out there in your career world. It’s like spreading your wings wide, exploring all the possibilities, and finding the right path that fits your goals. So, let’s not miss out on any exciting opportunities, they might be just around the corner”. – William Parrett, Director of Home Gym Supply
Belgrade
Founded in 1883 with the construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad through the Gallatin Valley, Belgrade, Montana, was established by Thomas B. Quaw, a businessman from the Midwest. Named for Belgrade, Serbia, as a nod to Quaw’s Slavic heritage, this city has grown from a railroad siding into a thriving community. Belgrade combines its rich historical roots with a growing, dynamic presence in the Gallatin Valley.
Belgrade snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $540,043 |
| Cost of Living | 22% higher than the national average |
| Crime | 22.05 incidents per 1,000 residents. (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Belgrade experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers, with a notable variation in temperature between seasons due to its high elevation and inland location. |
Belgrade healthcare
While Belgrade, Montana, may not have the same concentration of large, top-ranked hospitals as major cities, it still offers quality healthcare services to its residents. The city’s proximity to Bozeman provides access to reputable healthcare facilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Belgrade Hospitals | Belgrade residents have access to healthcare facilities in the area, including Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital, known for its quality medical services. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | Nearby hospitals, such as Livingston Healthcare and Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center, also provide comprehensive medical services to the region. |
Belgrade walkability
Belgrade, Montana, offers a moderately walkable environment, with certain areas providing more pedestrian-friendly experiences than others. While it may not have the high walkability scores of larger cities, Belgrade’s downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer convenient access to various amenities on foot.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Belgrade has locations with good walkability, including areas with a Walk Score of 76-78, indicating that most errands can be accomplished on foot. |
| Highly Walkable Areas | Areas such as East Main Street in Belgrade are very walkable, allowing residents to complete most errands without the need for a car. |
| Neighborhood Variability | Walkability in Belgrade varies by neighborhood, with the downtown area being more pedestrian-friendly compared to other parts of the city. |
| City Ranking | While Belgrade is not ranked among the most walkable cities, it offers a pleasant walking experience in its more pedestrian-oriented areas. |
Belgrade education
Belgrade, Montana, offers a solid educational environment with several well-regarded public schools. While it may not have the same level of national recognition as larger cities, Belgrade’s schools provide quality education to its students.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Belgrade Area School Districts | Belgrade’s school districts, including Belgrade Elementary School District, are known for their commitment to student achievement and community involvement. |
| High Schools in Belgrade | Belgrade High School, among others, offers a comprehensive education with a focus on academic excellence and extracurricular opportunities. |
| Public School Performance | Public schools in Belgrade, such as Ridge View Elementary and Saddle Peak Elementary, are recognized for their strong academic performance. |
| Top Public Schools in Belgrade | Schools like Ridge View Elementary and Belgrade Middle School are noted for their quality education and supportive learning environments. |
Belgrade jobs and economy
Belgrade, Montana, is experiencing steady economic growth, characterized by a robust job market and promising future job growth projections. This growth is contributing to Belgrade’s development as an important economic center in the region.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Belgrade has seen a significant increase in job opportunities, with future job growth over the next ten years predicted to be 49.1%, higher than the US average. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Belgrade is approximately $46,398. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Belgrade is forecasted to be robust, indicating a positive economic outlook for the city. |
| Recent Trends | Belgrade’s job market shows signs of steady growth, with new employment opportunities emerging in various sectors. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The growing job market and economic development in Belgrade are attracting new residents and businesses to the area. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Belgrade’s economy is showing signs of strength and diversification, contributing to its overall growth and development. |
Our methodology
In our methodology for identifying the best places to live in a state, we adopt a comprehensive and data-driven approach, relying on a variety of trusted and authoritative sources to compile our rankings. This process is outlined in the following steps:
Economic Data Analysis: We gather robust economic statistics from esteemed sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. These agencies provide us with critical data on employment rates, income levels, job growth, and other economic indicators that contribute significantly to the quality of life in an area.
Employment Opportunities: In addition to general economic data, we specifically examine employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This includes examining trends in job growth, the diversity of industries present, and the stability of employment in different regions, which are vital factors in determining a place's economic health and attractiveness.
Crime Rate Assessment: For understanding the safety and security of a place, we utilize data from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. This tool offers detailed insights into various types of crime rates, including both property and violent crimes, allowing us to assess the safety of a community comprehensively.
Housing Market Evaluation: Housing affordability and market trends are key components of our analysis. We primarily use Zillow.com for up-to-date and detailed information on house prices, trends in the housing market, and the overall affordability of living in different areas. When necessary, we also consult other reliable sources to validate and enrich our data.
Additional Quality of Life Factors: Recognizing that quality of life is influenced by a variety of factors, we also incorporate data from other official and reputable sources. This includes information on education quality, healthcare accessibility, environmental quality, transportation infrastructure, and recreational opportunities, among others.
Data Integration and Analysis: Upon gathering data from these diverse sources, we integrate and analyze it to provide a holistic view of each location. Our analysis involves not only looking at the raw numbers but also understanding the context and relative significance of each data point.
FAQ
What is the cost of living in Bozeman, Montana?
Bozeman, Montana, is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. However, the cost of living in Bozeman is relatively high compared to other cities in Montana. Housing costs are a significant factor, with the median home price being higher than the national average. Additionally, the cost of living is influenced by factors like transportation, healthcare, and groceries, which are also slightly above the national average.
How is the job market in Billings, Montana?
Billings, the largest city in Montana, offers a diverse job market with opportunities in healthcare, education, oil, and agriculture. The city has experienced steady job growth, and future projections remain positive. Billings also boasts a lower unemployment rate compared to the national average, making it an attractive location for job seekers.
What are the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Montana?
Montana is renowned for its vast and diverse landscapes, offering a plethora of outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing, and wildlife watching. The state’s numerous national parks, including Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone, provide stunning settings for these activities. Additionally, Montana’s rivers and lakes are perfect for water sports like kayaking and rafting.
How are the educational opportunities in Montana?
Montana offers a range of educational opportunities, from public and private schools to higher education institutions. The state is home to the University of Montana and Montana State University, which offer various undergraduate and graduate programs. Public schools in cities like Bozeman and Billings are well-regarded, with strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
What is the weather in Montana?
Montana’s climate varies significantly across the state due to its diverse geography. Generally, the state experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. In the mountainous regions, winters can be long and snowy, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. Summers are usually mild to warm, perfect for outdoor activities. However, weather can change rapidly, so residents often prepare for all conditions.
Key takeaways
- Montana offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for residents and visitors.
- Billings and Bozeman are among the best cities to live in Montana, each offering distinct advantages in terms of economy, education, and lifestyle.
- Billings, known as “Magic City,” combines historical significance with modern growth, providing a vibrant community for its residents.
- Bozeman, with its rich pioneer history and stunning natural surroundings, is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a blend of city and nature.
- Belgrade, while smaller than Billings and Bozeman, is experiencing significant growth and offers a strong sense of community and proximity to larger cities.
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