10 Cheapest Places to Live in Montana (2024)
- Glasgow
- Glendive
- Miles City
- Anaconda
- Butte
- Great Falls
- Havre
- Sidney
- Billings
- Helena
1. Glasgow
The cheapest place to live in Montana is Glasgow. Its population is 3,202, making it the 23rd-largest city in Montana. However, it’s the largest city within 110 miles or a 5-hour drive, which makes it a major financial hub for eastern Montana. It’s a rural town known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor recreation.
The cost of living in Glasgow is 17.4% lower than both the rest of Montana and the rest of the country. The average family would need to make about $36,560 to afford to live comfortably, while a single adult would only need to make about $24,800. The average home price is $160,000, and the average rent is around $600.
2. Glendive
Glendive is also one of the cheapest places to live in Montana. Located between the Yellowstone River and the Badlands in rural east Montana, Glendive is a major hub for agriculture and ranching. It has a population of 4,876 people.
Glendive is very affordable, even by Montana standards. The cost of living is 20% lower than both the country and the rest of the state. The average family would earn $41,040 to live comfortably in Glendive, while a single person would need to make $31,600. The average home price is $207,500, and the average rent is only about $500.
3. Miles City
Miles City is another one of the cheapest places to live in Montana. Located in the state’s southwestern quadrant, this city is at the convergence of two major rivers, the Yellowstone River and the Tongue River. It is home to an abundance of parks, rivers, and historical sites, which provide its nearly 8,400 residents with plenty of family-friendly recreation. Other local attractions include weekly livestock auctions, and the annual Bucking Horse Sale, where rodeo stock buyers and breeders showcase the best of western equestrianism. Home values in this area average about $236,000, making Miles City the most affordable city in Montana.
4. Anaconda
The fourth-cheapest place to live in Montana is Anaconda. This area is located in southwestern Montana and is a friendly, welcoming community nestled in the Deer Lodge National Forest. It sits in the heart of the state’s hiking, fishing, and skiing country, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts and those who prefer active lifestyles. The city itself is small, with a population of roughly 9,491 people, and most locals commute to surrounding areas for work and employment opportunities. But, home prices in this area average at $256,000, making it one of the most affordable places to live in Montana.
5. Butte
Butte is another one of Montana’s cheapest cities to live in. This area was originally established as a gold and silver mining camp and was at one time the largest city in the Rocky Mountains. But today, it’s a consolidated city-county with a total population of about 34,768 people. In addition to its rich history, Butte also offers its residents a wealth of local activities and attractions, which include art galleries, museums, underground mine tours, outdoor recreation, and the Granite Mountain Memorial Overlook. Home values in this area average at $271k, and the city’s abundance of beautiful Victorian architecture makes it perfect for homebuyers interested in cheap homes with immense character.
6. Great Falls
Tucked away in Montana’s northwestern plains is Great Falls, another one of the state’s most affordable places to live. This city sits along the Missouri River and is best known for its collection of five nearby waterfalls. The area is also home to Giant Spring State Park, which boasts the nation’s largest freshwater spring. With over 60,000 residents, Great Falls is the second-largest city on this list and boasts an abundance of urban amenities such as restaurants, breweries, and museums. Home prices in this area average at $299k, making Great Falls perfect for cost-efficient western living.
7. Havre
Havre is the cheapest city along Montana’s Canadian border. Home to the Montana section of the Hi-Line, this city was previously a booming railroad city. But today, it is a charming town with about 9,314 residents and is perfect for those who prefer a more secluded western area. The surrounding area is full of mountains and plains, offering year-round opportunities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Locals can also take advantage of the city’s other activities like concerts, live theater, museums, shops, galleries, and sporting events. With home prices in the low $ 300k’s, Havre is the cheapest area in north-central Montana.
8. Sidney
Sidney is another one of the most affordable cities in Montona. Sidney is located along the Montana North Dakota border. Nestled along the banks of the Yellowstone River, this city has long been considered a center for trade – particularly in the oil and agriculture industries. The main crops in this area include grains, sugar beets, corn, beans, and hay, and locals can also partake in the area’s many warm-water fishing holes. Home to roughly 6,197 people, Sidney is the smallest town on this list. But, with home prices sitting at an average of $356k, this area is the best place to find a true western charm on a budget.
9. Billings
Billings is a cheap area near the Wyoming border. This city’s surrounding area is considered a trailhead due to its close proximity to several of the state’s more popular locations. The city is home to an abundance of art, music, outdoor recreation, and fun local entertainment. It also has a killer food and beverage scene, which includes farmer’s markets, French bakeries, cafes, and local eateries. Other attractions in this area include the Yellowstone Art Museum, Phipps Park, and the monthly ArtWalk Downtown Billings. Home prices in this area average at $376k, keeping Billings one of Montana’s most affordable urban areas.
10. Helena
In addition to being Montana’s Capital City, it is also one of the state’s cheapest places to live. This charming town is located directly between Yellowstone and Glacier National parks, making it a popular destination among hikers, sightseers, and nature lovers. It is home to over 33,000 people, all of whom enjoy the area for its stunning range of local amenities. These include museums, breweries, gardens, natural hot springs, walking trails, ski slopes, and more. Home prices in Helena rest around $464k, keeping the Capital City both fun and affordable.