Montana is home to some of the best scenery in the country, and it offers a lot to people who want to move there. The state has a good economy, low tax rates and interesting job opportunities.
Attractions To Live In Montana
If you want to live in a state that offers incredible scenery, wildlife preserves, and snowcapped mountains, you can’t go wrong with Montana. This fourth-largest state is less densely populated than most, making it easy to get away from it all and enjoy the natural world at your own pace.
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You’ll find a range of different cities and towns in Big Sky Country that offer all the amenities you could want from a modern city, as well as some fantastic access to outdoor activities.
Whether you’re a young professional looking to get your foot in the door or a family who wants a quiet, tranquil environment, there’s a Montana city or town that will make you feel right at home.
Bozeman
A quaint mountain town of 49,000, Bozeman is famous for its views and innovative restaurants. It also has a youthful vibe, with a median age of just 28.
Livingston
A solid all-rounder, Livingston is becoming increasingly popular with Millennials thanks to its low crime rates and good schools. The city also offers plenty of nightlife and a fair cost of living, as well as being very dog-friendly.
Helena
Known for its excellent schools and job opportunities, Helena is another great option for families. Homes in Helena are cheaper than in Bozeman or Missoula, making it easier to save for a house.
Sidney
North-eastern Montana is renowned for its oil industry, but this area is also home to some of the best cities in the state. This is the perfect place for a young family or a couple who wants a comfortable, safe, and affordable city life. The public schools are excellent and there’s lots of variety in terms of shops, restaurants, and parks for the whole family.
There are many cities in Montana that offer a combination of city life and a quiet, natural setting. Here are a few of the best places to live in Montana.
Bozeman #1
Bozeman is a gateway city to world-class skiing, Yellowstone National Park and a growing tech hub. But its surprisingly urban core has plenty of charm and personality. It’s a captivating mix of contemporary city meets cowboy country, a thriving food scene and the rustic appeal of historic downtown districts replete with century-old red-brick buildings, chic bars and Western-wear boutiques.
One of the best ways to experience the mountains around Bozeman is on a bike, whether cruising the Gallatin Valley Farmer’s Market or exploring local trails on your own. You can even sign up for a guided adventure that will take you on a scenic ride and show you how to improve your mountain biking skills.
The city is also home to Montana Whitewater, where you can get a taste of fly-fishing with a rafting trip and fly-tying lesson. Or, if you’re looking for a more laid-back outdoor experience, try your hand at fishing the nearby Gallatin River in the summertime.
| Address | Bozeman Municipal Building P. O. BOX 1230. BOZEMAN MT 59771 |
| Bozeman, MT email | ckukulski@bozeman.net |
| Population | 53,293 (2020) |
Four Corners #2
Four Corners is a small census-designated place (CDP) in Gallatin County and just west of Bozeman. It is a micropolitan area with a population of around 5,000 and features a wide array of activities, events, restaurants and attractions that appeal to all types of travelers.
The most popular attraction is the Four Corners Monument, which marks the point at which the borders of Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico meet. This is an impressive landmark that has a unique history and significance.
This iconic location is a must-see for anyone visiting the area and features a large bronze disk embedded in a larger granite disk, which contains an inscription about the Four Corners region.
Although this is the best place in the world to see the sun set, there are other interesting things to do and see while you’re in Four Corners, like a visit to Montana’s largest hot springs or a tour of the grizzly bears at Montana Grizzly Encounter.
Other notable highlights include the Natural Bridges Monument and Canyon Country, which is home to several other must-see attractions that are worth a trip alone or as part of a tour. The inscription includes the names of all four states, as well as flags representing the Native American tribes that share this region.
| Population | 4,859 (2020) |
| Elevation | 1,438 m |
| Area | 28.26 km² |
| Weather | -4 °C, Wind S at 16 km/h |
Livingston #3
Livingston is a small, quaint town that has plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. There is a wide variety of museums, outdoor recreational activities, restaurants, and music venues.
The city’s central location gives it the ability to be a great base camp for travelers who want to experience Yellowstone National Park. The area also boasts several hot springs resorts that are perfect for a relaxing day trip or overnight stay.
Downtown Livingston is full of history and a unique, Old West vibe that can’t be beat. Long-established businesses with well-preserved neon signs and modern breweries sit side-by-side in the heart of this charming western town.
There are also plenty of art galleries in Livingston, like Parks Reece Gallery that features surrealist nature art and the Danforth Museum of Art. The former is a good place to start exploring local artists’ work while the latter is dedicated to preserving the culture of this region.
With a thriving arts scene, a stout collection of bars and three enticing bookstores, Livingston is an unabashed bastion of Western cool. Whether you’re a seasoned tourist or a first-timer, this southwestern Montana city is sure to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
| Population | 7,801 (2019) |
| Address | 220 E. Park Street, Livingston, MT |
| Phone | (406) 222-2005 |
Whitefish #4
Whitefish is one of the best places to live in Montana for those who enjoy being surrounded by nature. Its close proximity to Glacier National Park means that residents can explore stunning mountains, lakes and glaciers without having to travel far from town.
In addition to its natural wonders, Whitefish is also home to a number of exciting attractions. Bonsai Brewing Project is a popular micro-brewery that has been serving up beer in the area since 2006.
For those who love fine art, Downtown Whitefish offers a wide variety of galleries featuring local artists. Dick Idol Signature Gallery, Sunti World Art Gallery and The Purple Pomegranate are just a few of the places you can visit while in Whitefish.
Another popular attraction is Les Mason State Park, a Montana state park that sits along the shores of Whitefish Lake. This natural playground has a beach with a swim area, picnic areas, gazebos and clean restrooms.
The historic Whitefish Depot is also worth a visit. This historic train station is a popular landmark for travelers and acts as the center of Whitefish’s main street. It’s also home to a museum that highlights the town’s rich logging history.
| Elevation | 3,028 ft (923 m) |
| Area code | 406 |
| Address | P.O. Box 158. Whitefish, MT 59937-0158 |
| Phone | 406-863.. |
Helena #5
Helena, the state capital of Montana, is a popular destination for both travelers and residents. The city is home to museums, breweries, gardens, natural hot springs, and other amenities that make it a great place to spend a vacation.
Located halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, Helena is also an ideal spot for outdoor activities. It’s home to a wide range of lakes that are perfect for boating, fishing, and other water sports.
One of the most impressive buildings in Helena is the Cathedral of Saint Helena, a Catholic cathedral that dates back to 1908. The ornate building has 59 stained glass windows and 15 hand-cast bells and is open for daily mass.
Another historic landmark in Helena is Reeder’s Alley, a pedestrian street that gives visitors a taste of what it was like to live in the Old West. The street is dotted with historic homes and buildings.
There are many other attractions in Helena that you shouldn’t miss, including the Capitol Square Farmers’ Market and the Governor’s Mansion. Both are popular among locals and offer a glimpse into Montana history.
| Address | Helena, MT 59602 |
| Director’s Office | (406) 444-5622 |
Dillion #6
Dillon is a small town that offers a laid-back feel. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a genuine Montana vacation. Dillion sits in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, offering a range of outdoor activities like river rafting and hiking.
The city is also home to many eclectic shops, art galleries, spas/salons, and restaurants. It is a favorite stop for many locals and visitors alike. It is a great place to relax after a day of hiking or skiing. The restaurant is open late so you can enjoy your meal while the sun sets.
The food is delicious and the staff is very friendly. You can’t go wrong with a good burger and beer at Sparky’s Garage! They have a fun auto theme and they have a huge menu with plenty of options to choose from.
| Population | 4.33k people |
| Area code | 406 |
| Elevation | 5,240 ft (1,600 m) |
Missoula #7
Missoula is one of Montana’s most beautiful cities, flush with pristine wilderness and home to a thriving arts scene. It’s also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, with rafting, skiing, hiking and biking opportunities.
It’s a city that hasn’t forgotten its roots, and the historical museum at Fort Missoula is a wonderful way to learn more about the history of this beautiful town. The fort was originally built to protect local townspeople from raids by Native American Indians, and it was later used as a prison camp during WWII.
For those who love a good book, the Missoula City Library is a must-visit. The library has received the World’s Best Public Library award, and its contemporary design reflects the region. Besides the library, Mount Sentinel is another popular attraction in Missoula.
This small mountain has a white “M” painted on it, which makes it an iconic landmark that can be seen from just about anywhere in the city. Hiking up the mountain is a fun activity and is a good place to get some amazing views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
| Population | 73,489 (2020) |
| Address | 199 West Pine St. Missoula, MT |
| Phone | (406) 258-4877 |
Lewistown #8
Lewistown is the geographic center of Montana and a great spot for visitors looking to experience Montana in a unique way. It sits surrounded by five mountain ranges and offers many activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking.
One of the most popular things to do in Lewistown is to visit the Big Springs Trout Hatchery. This renowned recreational facility not only feeds thousands of trout, but also features picnic areas and sports fields.
Another thing to do in Lewistown is take a self-guided walking tour through the Silk Stocking District, Central Business District and Judith Place historic districts. These are all historic neighborhoods that provide a glimpse of how life in Central Montana was like in the early 1900s and feature some beautiful Craftsman-style homes.
In addition to these attractions, you can check out a number of other free things to do in Lewistown. A few of these include the Judith Landing, a public access site that lets you follow part of the Lewis and Clark Trail that they used during their expeditions in the 1800s.
| Address | Lewistown Municipal Building 305 W Watson St Lewistown, MT 59457 United States |
| Phone number of Lewistown city hall | 406-535-1760 |
| Lewistown official website | cityoflewistown.com |
FAQs about Live In Montana
What do I need to know before living in Montana?
Montana is a state in the western United States known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and rugged terrain. The state has a low population density, harsh winters, and a strong cowboy culture. It’s essential to be prepared for severe weather, have a reliable vehicle, and respect the wildlife.
What is the best thing about living in Montana?
The best thing about living in Montana is the unparalleled access to outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, fishing, and hunting. The state boasts breathtaking national parks, such as Glacier and Yellowstone, as well as vast expanses of wilderness. Montanans value independence, community, and a slower pace of life, making it an ideal place for those seeking a more authentic and natural lifestyle.
