Have you always dreamed of living in quaint little towns with natural beauty and ample opportunities to fulfill your adventurous desires? Well, then we probably have a solution for you. Montana, located in the western United States, is a state wrapped with rich and diverse terrains. This state has nature’s bounty — from lush green forests to the Rocky Mountains and the Glacier National Park. However, this is not the only thing that attracts people, especially millennials, to this beautiful state. With a scanty population of just around 1,005,141 people, Montana wins on various aspects.
Well-equipped infrastructure, best schools, low crime rate, and booming employment opportunities make it a lucrative place to live in. There are a bunch of fun leisure activities for people from all age groups. And, if photography is your passion, then you will never run out of opportunities of getting good pictures! So, if you are considering moving in here, let’s dig in to find the best places to live in Montana.
Four Corners
Four Corners has been rated the safest place to live in Montana to raise a family. With almost no crime reports, best-rated amenities, and lower price for properties, Four Corners has been attracting people, especially millennials, from across the world. Thanks to its proximity to Bozeman, you won’t be missing out on any action while living in Four Corners, and the residents can confirm this.
This sparsely populated small city is home to some of the best schools in Montana and a high income per capita. Life in Four Corners is the perfect amalgamation of good education, exciting cultural activities, and peaceful community bonding. What else do you need!
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7BDY8WmcvLrES7bR9 | Cost of Living: $81,089 (Median Household Income) | Population: 5,084 (Census at 2019)
Bozeman
Hands down, Bozeman is one of the best places to live in Montana. A city that has a picturesque setting and good infrastructure make for a perfect combination for people to live in with family. Bozeman is progressive and accepts diversity. It has some of the best schools (both private and public) in the state, well-formed medical facilities, and is booming with employment opportunities.
Located against the backdrop of the beautiful Rockies, Bozeman also provides great exposure to outdoor activities for all its residents, thanks to its natural trails. It also has pretty boutique restaurants and quite a fun nightlife. Although it has a little higher standard of living, it can be considered a fair deal considering the amenities it has on offer. If you are on the lookout for a new residence in a new city, it can come to an end if you choose to move in Bozeman, Montana.
By Tim Evanson, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZS7raFJNXqpMBgPY6 | Cost of Living: $55,569 (Median Household Income) | Population: 53,293 (Census at 2020)
Whitefish
Whitefish, located near Glacier National Park, is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains and a busy destination with tourists all year long. It is great for those who are looking for jobs in the hospitality sector. Whitefish is cozy and majorly known for its renowned Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, which is popular in both summers and winters for its abundant activities for the residents. Whitefish is natural beauty at its best.
Although Whitefish ranks a little higher in terms of the rate of properties, you can always choose to live in rented houses (average rent $1,014). Whitefish has all the potential of being your dream destination with happy and warm people around, which is ideal for families. Imagine waking up to a view of snow-capped mountains from your bedroom every day! Isn’t that awesome?
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DL58WbWektmcM97YA | Cost of Living: $52,037 (Average Household Income) | Population: 7,751
Livingston
Situated bang on the Yellowstone River, Livingston is another amazing place to live in Montana. Just an hour’s drive from the Yellowstone National Park, its location makes Livingston more attractive. Livingston also offers all the perks of city life for young people; residents can experience abundant outdoor activities in the day and have a lit nightlife.
With almost zero crimes, affordable price for properties (median home value of $224,200), and a community feeling, Livingston is a great city to settle in for families. A list of good schools is add-ons if you are planning to settle with your family. If you are not looking for a permanent residence, then you can get your dream home for rent, as well (median home rent $813) in Livingston.
By Montanabw, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/LVzh7BKKYPquQbKt9 | Cost of Living: $46,097 (Median Household Income) | Population: 8,040
Dillon
Think of waking up to a majestic view of the mountains and sipping freshly brewed coffee with your loved ones! Who doesn’t like that? Dillon is another small city in Montana that offers amazing views from the comfort of your bedroom. This city has ample opportunities for its residents with many fun activities like skiing, boating, hiking, etc., for youngsters and families.
Various reports show that Dillon’s people are generous and give you a great community feeling; they welcome you and your family wholeheartedly right from the start. It is often called a hidden treasure in Montana. If you are looking for a residence where you can have fun and also enjoy working from home, Dillon is where your search should stop.
By Mumbo jiggy, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/rJMhcxVHMSvkyibj7 | Cost of Living: $32,833 (Median Household Income) | Population: 3,880
Helena
This is one of the best cities to live in Montana for people who love ancient architecture and history. Helena is the capital city of Montana and one of the most populated cities. It offers affordable value of properties at around $244,300. Although most residents here have their own homes, newcomers can always choose to go for a rented apartment or house.
Similar to other smaller cities, this place also has quite an abundant option of outdoor activities for all. Helena also has excellent schools and a stable infrastructure to satisfy the requirements of the residents. Families will have a great time here.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/rDCNRXUtFFeXTPkB7 | Cost of Living: $61,324 (Average Household Income) | Population: 32,091
East Helena
East Helena is one of the least populated cities in Montana. You can totally get a suburban kind of feeling here. Most of the people in East Helena have their own homes as the price of properties are quite affordable (average home price $168,100).
If you are looking for a place to start a family and raise kids in a simple environment, you can check out East Helena. If the availability of good schools is your concern, you can be happy with the offerings here. There are enough opportunities to choose from a number of outdoor activities, from fishing to hiking. Plenty of cute cafes and pulsating bars make East Helena place a hit among millennials.
By 5of7, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/j75k189K74vx9yBj8 | Cost of Living: $51,831 (Average Household Income) | Population: 1,994
Missoula
Missoula is one such small city that has a global appeal. Missoula is famous for the Missoula Art Museum and the Historic fort Missoula. The city is comparatively more populous than others. However, if you consider residing in Missoula, you will be just a few minutes away from the major city landscapes of Montana.
The city has some great schools, and it is perfect for people who want to raise their kids in the suburb but don’t want to compromise on the quality of the education. Meanwhile, outdoor activity options like kayaking, fishing, and hiking make it even more interesting, and the residents love this city for such options.
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By Prizrak 2084, CC BY 2.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6CAWhhEC5KWxio6x9 | Cost of Living: $61,324 (Expected Household Income) | Population: 73,489
Lewistown
This city in Montana has a well-connected airport, which is a major plus for newcomers considering becoming residents here. Lewistown is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and is popular for fishing, hunting, and hiking, making this place great to explore. Amazing views straight from your bedroom are just extra perks.
With an average population of around 5,885, the charming Lewistown is gaining popularity among young people. It is quite affordable in respect to property price; even the rented properties are very cheap. You can also choose Lewistown for your next workcation. This little city hosts some amazing hotels for your stay.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/o2AkLvgrWWQuQTY26 | Cost of Living: $38,575 (Average Household Income) | Population: 5,952
Orchard Homes
Orchard Homes is located in the suburbs of Missoula. If you happen to be in this little town, consider yourself the luckiest as you can enjoy the perks of both places. Orchard Homes has everything you have been looking for — great schools, adequate job opportunities, a beautiful neighborhood, and most importantly, affordable rent.
This place is considered the hub of college students, so you can expect a wide mix of people in terms of demography. Although finding affordable housing is a bit of an issue in Orchard Homes, it is still quite popular among youngsters.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wVVvFcs6pajvzXar8 | Cost of Living: $67,533 (Expected Household Income) | Population: 5,847
Kalispell
Kalispell is the gateway to the Glacier National Park. For those who are considering moving in, you will get the vibe of both the ever-busy city life as well as the lap of nature. Kalispell can definitely provide you with breathtaking views from your bedroom itself.
With a below-average median household income, Kalispell is an affordable place to live in for residents. Kalispell is gaining popularity among millennials.
By Katie Brady, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/79vR19NzbaS3MFr46 | Cost of Living: $50,294 (Average Household Income) | Population: 24,558
Billings
A bit of hiking in the day and partying hard at night — does that sound like a fun weekend plan? If yes, then it is time to pack your bags and move to Billings. A paradise for hikers, there are some amazing trails just outside Billings. Everywhere you look, Billings is a treat for your eyes, and people here, both young and old, will vouch for it. Did you say natural beauty? Yes, just feel it.
Compared to the other cities in Montana, Billings gives you a taste of extreme urban feeling. Known for being the most populous city in the state of Montana, Billings scores high on amenities, has some of the best schools, plenty of job opportunities, and a low crime rate. It’s perfect for you and your family. Billings is thus a very good choice for the newcomers to move in. If the cost of living is a concern for you, then Billings will serve the purpose, and you can live a pretty simple yet majestic life here.
By Ron Reiring, CC BY 2.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kZfbhqUV11TXCWyk8 | Cost of Living: $59,656 (Median Household Income) | Population: 117,116
Belgrade
If you are looking for all the comfort and amenities of a bug city at a much more affordable price, then Belgrade is your destination. Located at almost a stone’s throw from Bozeman, it is a dainty city, surrounded by the Bridger Mountains (a treat to your eyes right from the bedroom). The city of Belgrade is sparsely populated, and the crime rate is low — perfect for families.
Considered the cheapest place to live in Montana, it boasts some top-ranking schools and opportunities galore for the young. If you are looking for a calm and serene place to live with your family and raise your kids, Belgrade is the best option. The cost of living comes with a fair discount here compared to Bozeman, especially in terms of rates of properties and house rents. The people here are welcoming, as well. So many facilities in this city make it stand out among the rest, adding to the list of the best places to live in Montana and a residents’ favorite.
By born1945, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/RwKyZ7x9XRNnFFCBA | Cost of Living: $59,146 (Median Household Income) | Population: 10,460 (Census at 2021)
Glasgow
Glasgow is one of the largest cities of the state of Montana and one of the most important economic hubs. If you are planning to expand your business, Glasgow is the best place to live in. This town has quite a low rent value which makes it popular among the millennials and youngsters.
Every city-dweller wants to move into somewhere quiet, safe, and cheap, and all these requirements can be fulfilled if you move to Glasgow. In fact, Glasgow is the safest neighborhood in Montana with almost no crime, and the people are amazing to hang out with. You cannot miss checking out Glasgow once before making your final call.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ExeSJxQ9BfiyhPei7 | Cost of Living: $53,235 (Average Household Income) | Population: 3,302
King Arthur Park
King Arthur Park is again a very less populated area. Although this place offers a higher living rate, it is acceptable for the amenities it offers, A-rated schools, has a well-maintained infrastructure, good medical facilities, no crime report, and good employment opportunities. For millennials, it can’t get any better. The residents are pretty friendly and will welcome you warmly. You can check this place out; you never know you might find your dream home in King Arthur Park.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QWHTBrqCEykEpE627 | Cost of Living: $81,979 (Expected Household Income) | Population: 1,686
Great Falls
The city of Great falls is densely populated compared to the other cities in Montana. Great Falls has an Airforce base nearby, thus indicating the city’s diverse population. Great Falls, too, has excellent schools, a friendly neighborhood, and an abundance of outdoor activities for all.
The city is filled with local boutique cafes and restaurants in every corner. You can just stroll around and find a cute Instagram-worthy café perfect for your brunch. The residents have reported that the education system is top-notch and it is a very safe place to raise your kids. If all your boxes are already getting ticked, you must check in to the Great falls.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kNEwfSadwRkuMrGn6 | Cost of Living: $46,965 (Expected Household Income) | Population: 60,442
Polson
Polson is a very beautiful lakeside community; this place is also the largest trading center for agriculture in Montana. This city is also dotted with good schools and adequate facilities of all kinds for its residents and family people.
If you love to go back in time, Polson is your place; it has some of the oldest museums, some of the beautiful city parks. It is so picturesque that it attracts tourists throughout the year. Although it is the second last on the list, it is worth giving a shot. What do you think?
By Montanabw, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/8cQHkNvoGDUk69Zu7 | Cost of Living: $37,054 (Expected Household Income) | Population: 5,148
Black Eagle
Our last recommended town to live in the state of Montana is Black Eagle. With just near about 1000 people living in a community, this little place feels more rural than any other place in Montana. Black Eagle is quite popular among the newcomers because it is one of the cheapest and amazing places to live in. Black Eagle also has zero crime reports, proving it a much better place to move in with your family. Black Eagle was earlier known as the “little Chicago”.
By JERRYE AND ROY KLOTZ MD, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/V4xG4Gx1yBxzvSgX7 | Cost of Living: $47,868 (Average Household Income) | Population: 923
Being a part of in these small towns has its own perks; you would always feel your neighborhood is straight out of movies. Living in the state of Montana will give you the same feeling, making it a great hit among millennials. Who wouldn’t want to trade a view of the heavy traffic and skyscrapers with amazing natural beauty, gigantic mountains, and beautiful lakes? If you have been a citizen of the United States and yet to visit Montana, then we would say, don’t delay it any further!