Moving To Montana

A complete guide of the state from healthcare to diversity

Should you move to Montana?

Montana, aptly named the Treasure State, is where untamed wilderness meets serene tranquility. From the sweeping Great Plains to the Rocky Mountains, the “Big Sky Country” offers some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in the U.S.

Montana’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, mining, and tourism. It’s one of the leading states for wheat and barley production, and the mining industry remains vital with coal, gold, and talc operations. Montana also thrives on its tourism sector, drawing visitors from around the globe to its national parks, historic sites, and fishing streams.

Living in Montana is an outdoor lover’s dream. It is home to two of the country’s most renowned national parks, Glacier and Yellowstone. The state offers abundant opportunities for hiking, fishing, skiing, and hunting. Not to mention, Montana is a prime location for wildlife viewing, boasting one of the largest grizzly bear populations in the lower 48 states.

On the cultural side, Montana has a rich Native American heritage, with several tribes calling the state home. From powwows to historic battlefields and heritage centers, the influence of Native American culture is evident and respectfully preserved.

Montana takes pride in its education, with the University of Montana and Montana State University offering a wide array of programs and being leaders in research.

But perhaps what truly sets Montana apart is its sense of community. Despite the state’s vast geographical size, it’s often said that Montana feels like a small town with long streets. The friendly residents, slower pace of life, and the practically non-existent traffic jams make Montana an inviting place to call home.

If a state with breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, a strong sense of community, and a slower pace of life sounds appealing, Montana could be your next destination. Just remember to bring your snow boots for the heavy winters!

State Capital

Helena

Area Code(s)

406

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone

Land Area (sq mi)

145,550

State Bird

Western meadowlark

Motto

Oro y plata (Gold and silver)

State Flag

Firstandsold.com is an audience-supported site. We may earn an affiliate commission when you purchase through links or ads. Learn more

How Does Montana Rank?

F
Diversity
C
Cost of Living
D
Home Affordability

Who Lives in Montana?

Discover more about the people who make up the State

Total Population

National Avg 6,652,315

Population Density

7 per sq mi

National Avg 206.5 persons/square mile

How does Montana compare?

F
Diversity Grade
White alone
85.3%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
6.5%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Hispanic or Latino
4.5%

Foreign Born Persons

2.2%

Veterans

84430

Under 5 years
5.1%
Under 18 years
20.8%
Over 65 years
20%

Montana Climate

How’s the weather?

How Does Montana Compare?

#44
in Sunny Days
#46
in Annual Rainfall
#43
in Daytime Humidity

Start Organizing Your Move Today

Stay on top of tasks and avoid moving-day chaos. Download your moving checklist and box inventory list.

Healthcare in Montana

How are the hospitals and care?

Major Hospitals

62

Residents Per Bed

382

Residents Per Physician

481.7

How Does Montana Compare?

#26
in Healthcare
#30
in Available Beds
#49
in Doctors Per Resident

Montana Metropolitans

Montana

Billings

Montana

Missoula

Montana

Great Falls

Montana Cost of Living

How Does Montana Compare?

34
in Cost of Living
28
in Minimum Wage
19
in Living Wage

Don't Forget!

Auto insurance costs change from city to neighborhood. Through Insurify, you can receive personalized quotes from top insurers in 5 minutes or less.

Renting? Renter’s insurance protects you, your guests, and your things. And Lemonade offers renters insurance plans for as low as $5 per month.

Montana State Taxes

Housing in Montana

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the zip code.

Total Households

436,481

Own vs. Rent

Own 69.1%
Rent 30.9%

Connect with a local Montana REALTOR®

Buying or selling? We’ll help you connect with the right real estate agents in Montana or anywhere you need help.

Median Home Value

353,700

National $440,300

Median Rent

$886

National $1,702

Average Homeownership cost

$476

Taxes, Insurance, Utilities, HOA (no mortgage)

Persons Per Household

2.41

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by hiring a professional cleaner. A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more

Montana Schools

Explore the school district and schools

8th Grade Proficiency (2022)

Ranked #14 in Mathematics

Basic Proficiency

68%

Proficient or Above

29%

Ranked #15 in Reading

Basic Proficiency

72%

Proficient or Above

29%

Education Attainment

High School Degree
94.4%
Bachelors Degree
33.7%

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

Montana Cities & Towns

Montana Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$60,560

US Average $74,580

How does Montana compare?

In Labor Force

62.9%

Poverty rate

11.9%

Private Employers

40,716

Total Employees

380,268

Montana Counties

The Best, Worst, Wealthiest, and More...

45 trending topics that matter for today’s mover

Best Metros in America

Discover the top-rated Metros across America
Best Metros

Best Cities in America

The top-rated cities and towns across America
Best Places in America

Best Metros For Families

Explore the perfect Metros for Families
Best For Families

Continue Reading

Moving soon?

Receive valuable information and advice direct to your inbox.

Moving Checklist & Box Inventory Guides Included!

Join the First&Sold community

Connect With a REALTOR®

Buying or selling a home? Access First&Sold’s network of experienced REALTORS®

Buy first, sell after.

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to reach you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

We're excited to hear from you.

Let us know how to reach you and one of our friendly home specialist will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

The next step is a sold sign

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to contact you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Meet Nuri Caplinger

Questions on Las Vegas real estate? Ready to buy or sell? Meet your local Professional, Nuri.

Learn how your information is protected in the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Speak to an advisor

Enter your information and a home advisor will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy