Examining The Pros And Cons Of Moving To Montana
Are you thinking about moving to Montana? If yes, I will address your big question, “Is Montana a Good Place to Live?” by reviewing the state’s pros and cons.
Montana’s rugged outdoor lifestyle has much to offer. So, let’s not delay and dive into today’s topic.
Is Montana A Good Place To Live?
Immense scenic beauty, outdoor recreation options, economic opportunities, limited urbanization, plus the reasonable cost of living are some factors that make Montana a good place to live.
However, before moving, you must consider the state’s pros and cons.
Pros And Cons Of Living In Montana: Head To Head Comparison
| Living in Montana Pros | Living in Montana Cons |
| 1. Immense scenic beauty | 12. Skeptical of newcomers |
| 2. Amazing national parks | 13. One-side political views |
| 3. Outdoor recreation | 14. Extreme weather |
| 4. Wide-open spaces | 15. Limited housing stock |
| 5. Nice mid-sized cities | 16. Limited public transit |
| 6. It’s not overdeveloped | 17. Lacking in nightlife |
| 7. Low cost of living | 18. Too many tourists |
| 8. No sales tax | 19. Dangerous wildlife |
| 9. Plenty of jobs | 20. Self-sufficiency required |
| 10. Good Universities | 21. Feelings of isolation |
| 11. Helpful residents |
Next, let’s review these facts about Montana living one at a time.
Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Pros Of Living In Montana
1. The Scenic Beauty Will Inspire And Energize
Montana is unlike any other state for its natural beauty. Clean air, inspiring mountains, and lush forests make it feel like a place in the wild.
The western part of the state has mountainous snowcapped peaks and dramatic valleys. There are dozens of named ranges in the Rocky Mountain chain.
Central Montana contains the northernmost part of the Great Plains. The land is broad and flat and covered in prairie and grass. Ranches and farms dot the landscape.
Eastern Montana has the badlands. Native Americans named the area for its rocky terrain, lack of water, and extreme temperatures. Montana’s Makoshika State Park features badland formations and historic fossil remains.
More reading: Explore living in Utah
Next, here is another one of the outdoor perks of living in Montana.
2. Amazing National Parks For Exploring The Outdoors
Montana is home to two of America’s most acclaimed National Parks: Yellowstone and Glacier.
Most of Yellowstone National Park is located in the border state of Wyoming. However, the park’s north entrance is in Gardiner, Montana. This park entrance is the only one open year-round.
Glacier National Park has more than 1,500 square miles of wilderness. The park extends north to the Canadian border and consists of glacier-carved peaks and valleys.
Glacier National has dozens of lakes and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. The mountainous Going-to-the-Sun Road crosses the park.
Both parks contain a diverse range of wildlife. Mountain goats, deer, elk, bears, moose, and buffalo freely roam the territory.
Next, here is another one of the outdoor advantages of living in Montana.
More reading: Outdoor recreational options are abundant here
3. An Abundance Of Outdoor Recreational Activities For Fitness And Good Health
In Montana, there are tons of outdoor recreational options. Popular outdoor activities that come to mind include:
- Backpacking
- Boating
- Birdwatching
- Camping
- Cross country skiing
- Cycling
- Dog sledding
- Downhill skiing
- Fishing
- Four wheeling
- Hiking
- Hunting
- Mountain climbing
- Photography
- River rafting
- Soaking in hot springs
- Snowboarding
- Snowmobiling
- Water skiing
Montana residents have nearly 15 ski resorts to choose from. The popular Big Sky Ski Resort is well known for its world-class downhill runs.
Thus, Montana is a great state for outdoor enthusiasts and fitness buffs.
Next up is another one of the benefits of living in Montana.
4. Wide-Open Spaces Mark Life In Montana
Montana is called “Big Sky Country” because the wide open plains create a stunning sky view. Lucky stargazers may even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
The plains are home to thousands of operational farms and ranches.
Agricultural activities are common in the state. Thus, you will find plenty of options for ranching, farming, or living the cowboy lifestyle.
5. Montana’s Mid-Sized Cities Offer Excellent Urban Living Options
Montana has several popular cities and towns you should consider moving to.
Billings, the most populated city, is located in the southcentral region. Downtown is comprised of historic buildings. There is a vibrant art community.
Missoula, nicknamed “The Garden City,” is located in the far western part of the state. The city is known for:
- The University of Montana campus
- Many parks and green spaces.
- A “milder” climate.
Bozeman is home to Montana State University. The city is located near the north entrance to Yellowstone.
Helena is the state’s capital city. It is located near the mountains and spreads into a broad scenic valley.
Less populated towns near Glacier National Park include:
Whitefish, home to Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Kalispell, where you will find Flathead Lake, a popular outdoor recreation area. Flathead is the largest freshwater lake in the lower 48 states.
6. Limited Negative Effects From Over-Development And Urbanization
Montana’s immense size and small population mean the hassles of big city life and urban sprawl are nonexistent
Based on landmass, Montana is the 4th largest state in the union. Only Alaska, Texas, and California are larger. However, Montana is one of the least populated states in the country, with about 1 million residents.
As a result, Montana’s population density is very low. Thus, you will find a lot of open land unspoiled by urban development.
Even though the majority of Montana residents own a car or a truck, you will rarely encounter a traffic jam.
7. Montanans Enjoy A Reasonable Cost Of Living
Montana has a low cost of living.
Apartment rents are affordable in many areas. For example, the average cost of a 2-bedroom apartment is 20-30% less than the national average.
Utility bills run nearly 10% below comparable costs nationwide, partly due to the state’s abundant natural resources.
Transportation expenses are quite affordable. CNN Money ranks the state as one of the cheapest states to own a vehicle.
Other costs, like groceries and health care services, are near the national average. For grocery shopping, Albertson’s is a popular choice.
Pro tip: Use the Rakuten cash rebate app to save money on all your online purchases.
More reading: A Cheaper State Near Montana
8. You Won’t Pay Sales Tax After Moving To Montana
Montana doesn’t have a sales tax. The state is one of only four with a zero sales tax policy.
Thus, neither the state nor local municipalities add sales tax to your purchases. It is a nice cost-savings.
Let’s look at another one of the positives of Montana living.
9. Residents Have Access To Plenty Of Job Opportunities
Montana has a low unemployment rate. The rate is well below the national average and one of the lowest state rates in the country.
The resident’s primary sources of income result from ranching, farming, oil, coal, gas, mining, and lumber activities. Thus, many residents often work outside as part of their jobs, including:
- Farmers
- Ranchers
- Construction workers
- Natural resource professionals
There are also opportunities in the larger cities and towns consisting of basic but important jobs, including:
- Retail
- Foodservice
- Housekeeping
- Real estate
- Hospitality and tourism
In Montana, you won’t find a lot of high-paying big-city-type jobs. For example, jobs in banking, financial services, business management, and consulting are in short supply.
10. Solid Educational Opportunities For Students Of All Ages
Montana offers excellent educational opportunities. Furthermore, in-state tuition is some of the lowest in the United States.
Montana State University and the University of Montana have the largest enrollments. They are both well-respected academic institutions.
11. Down-To-Earth, Helpful People Live In Montana
Montana locals are friendly. They have been brought up in rural and small-town community-minded environments.
Montanans work hard and stick to their daily business.
The people make good neighbors who rely on each other during tough times and long winters. At the same time, the happiest residents enjoy the country and scenic beauty of living in Montana.
Okay. That’s all the good stuff about Montana that I have for today.
But, an article about the pros and cons of living in Montana would not be complete without addressing the bad things about Montana, too.
Let’s do that now.
Cons Of Living In Montana
12. Some Of The Locals Are Slow To Accept New Comers
Montana residents welcomed outsiders in the past. However, many people have been relocating to the state in recent years. Californians moving to Montana has been a trend.
The influx of new residents doesn’t sit well with long-time residents.
As a result, locals have become a little less receptive to outsiders. So, as a newcomer, you will want to try your best to fit in and keep a low profile.
Montana completely differs from the major population centers on the West Coast and other big cities. You must adapt to different social norms.
So, consider yourself warned if you decide to move to Montana.
13. People’s Political Views Are One-Sided
Montana’s political viewpoints lean conservative. Republicans will fit right in. Presidential elections usually go to the Republican candidate.
At the same time, progressives are represented. They mainly reside in the cities and the two college towns, Bozeman and Missoula.
So, I guess you would have to say the politics are one-sided. From my perspective, it’s better to have a diversity of thought.
More reading: What each state is known for
14. You Will Experience Extreme and Diverse Weather
Montana experiences extreme weather. The climate varies across this vast state.
Here are a few other weather events to be prepared for.
Montana’s Climate
The Rocky Mountains impact Montana’s climate. The range restricts warmer Pacific Ocean air from flowing east and keeps dry, cold air from moving to the west.
Areas west of the mountains have a coastal climate. Expect milder winters, cooler summers, and less wind. Clouds and fog can form in the valleys during the winter since warmer air can’t escape the atmosphere.
On the other side of the mountains, Eastern Montana experiences greater temperature extremes. Note that most of the state falls east of the mountains.
Montana’s weather varies all over the state. It depends on where you choose to move.
During certain months of the year, 100-degree swings are possible. For example, from -30 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Montana Winters
Winters are brutally cold, regardless of your location. Below-freezing temperatures start as early as October.
Snowstorms can happen almost every month of the year. The higher elevations are the most vulnerable.
Montana’s capital city, Helena, routinely records extreme sub-zero temperatures during the winter. Temperatures are even colder in other remote parts of the state.
More reading: Another state with rugged winters
Montana’s Thunderstorms
The state’s mountainous regions are prone to severe thunderstorms from spring through autumn. The storms can pop up anytime.
Montana’s Summers
Summers can be very hot. Temperatures will approach 100 degrees on certain days in specific areas. The lower elevations in the south and eastern parts of the state are most vulnerable to extreme heat.
Next up, another one of the worst things about living in Montana…
15. There Is A Limited Supply Of Affordable Housing
Montana’s population has been growing. Remote work and well-off folks relocating from big cities are two reasons more people live in Montana.
Population growth has put homes in short supply and increased prices dramatically. Higher home prices offset many of the benefits of Montana’s lower cost of living.
Thus, homeownership is less affordable for locals working in an economy that supports only a modest average household income.
In some places, Bozeman, for example, the housing shortage is extreme. The city has been cited as one of the best places to live in America. However, popularity brings its own set of challenges.
Bozeman’s not-so-flattering nickname says it all. Some refer to it as “Boz Angeles”.
Bozeman’s land doesn’t support aggressive development. There are mountains, wetlands, large parcels dedicated to agriculture, and vast amounts of federally owned property limiting development.
Montana’s other popular cities have similar issues as Bozeman.
Next, I have another item a city dweller may view as one of the cons of living in Montana.
16. Public Transportation Won’t Get You Where You Need To Go
Montana offers limited public transportation. The larger cities and towns have bus systems, but the service is limited.
As a result, plan on owning a vehicle.
I recommend four-wheel drive because the rural roads are rugged. Frequent snowfall makes the extra traction a welcome convenience.
17. The Night Life Is Limited When Living In Montana
Montana offers limited nightlife. Many businesses and restaurants close up shop by 5 p.m.
Thus, clubbing, late-night, and party people do not have much to choose from. Furthermore, you may also be disappointed if you like high-end cultural events like theater, lectures, or dining.
Besides the larger towns of Bozeman, Missoula, and Billings, nightlife and cultural activities are in short supply.
18. So Many Tourists Descend On This Beautiful State
Montana attracts thousands of tourists annually. They come for the amazing landscape, fantastic National Parks, and top-notch ski resorts.
The tourists create traffic congestion in the most popular areas during the most popular times. A busy summer day in Glacier or Yellowstone can be as bad as a congested urban area.
Next, I’ve got another one of the issues with living in Montana.
19. Dangerous Wildlife Like Living In Montana Too
Montana has all kinds of wildlife. Grizzly bears, black bears, cougars, bobcats, wolves, and coyotes all call this region home.
Furthermore, the state has thousands of farms with livestock that attract predators looking for a good meal.
You should be cautious and aware when you go out exploring. Hikers and backcountry adventurers should carry bear spray and never travel alone.
More reading: My picks for the best states to live in
Okay. One last of my reasons not to live in Montana…
20. The Remote And Rugged Lifestyle Requires Self-Sufficiency
Montana is a remote rugged state with harsh winter weather. Thus, you must be prepared.
Storms in rural areas can knock out electricity, keeping the lights off for several days.
Icy roads are dangerous to travel. Getting stranded is possible long before help arrives.
Thus, I recommend keeping emergency supplies in your home and car.
More reading: Living in the rugged state of Alaska
21. You May Feel Isolated Living In Montana
Living in Montana can feel isolated.
Towns are located far apart. Going to the east, you can drive many miles and see nothing but fields, mountains, or badlands.
Some towns may not even have a gas station. So, it’s important to travel with a full tank.
Finally, when the worst winter weather hits, you might not see others for days. Everyone hunkers down to avoid the frigid temperatures and icy roads.
Okay. That’s all of the interesting things about living in Montana I have for today.
Please allow me to wrap up.
Pros And Cons Of Living In Montana (A Good Place to Live?)
Hopefully, I have given you some insight to answer these important questions:
1) What is living in Montana like?
And
2) Should I move to Montana?
Best of luck, no matter where you choose to settle down.
More Reading About Living In Montana And Beyond
Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.