You fell in love with the beauty of Montana as the state has recently been featured on Yellowstone, making it a desirable location for many. You imagine cowboys on horseback, cattle ranches, and endless mountain ranges and streams. And although a part of this vision is true, there is a lot more to the state of Montana than what the show delivers. It’s a destination – from real estate standpoint to access to education, recreation, and culture.
Here are top 10 reasons why Montana is a great place to live.
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Real Estate Property Taxes
In 2024 Montana ranks #18 in the nation with property taxes of 0.74%. Since property tax amount is based on the assessed value of your property, low real estate taxes allow you to purchase and afford more land.
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Vibrant Cities
One of the big misconceptions about Montana is that there are only wide-open spaces and no access to large communities. Billings, Missoula, Great Falls and Bozeman may not be considered huge metro areas, but they are large by Montana standards. If you are looking for vibrant city living, culture and food, Montana still delivers.
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The Great Outdoors
We have arrived at the undoubtably most valuable asset Montana has to offer. The great outdoors. Called the Big Sky Country for a reason, the state has some of the most amazing national parks to discover. Montana delivers some breathtaking views that no others state in the county can match.
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Education
Often highly underestimated for its education, Montana offers many opportunities, including the University of Montana, located in Missoula and Montana State University, located in Bozeman, both high ranking colleges.
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Community
Friendly and welcoming culture are the highlights of the state. Tight-knit communities foster a sense of belonging and due to the vast spaces, your neighbors will always be the first ones you can rely on.
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Culture and Diversity
With its rich history comes outstanding cultural diversity. From Native American cultures to immigrant communities, Montana is a melting pot of various nations, cultures, and religions. This all is very much reflected in the arts, music and food scene.
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Outdoor Recreation
The state is considered a haven for hikers, skiers and snowboarders. Some of the nation’s best skiing locations are in the heart of Montana. For those looking to hunt and fish, the state has over 170,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers and is a top destination for trout. Hunters flock to Montana for a trophy large game, looking at land an elk, or bighorn sheep.
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The Healthy State
Low population density and pollution make Montana one of the healthiest states and the best place to live. Access to the outdoors, healthy food, generally higher physical activity makes the residents of the state live a healthier lifestyle. Montana has one of the lowest obesity rates in children and adults in the nation.
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Ranching
It’s estimated that Montana has approximately 2 cows for every person living in the state. And although your reason to move here may not be to start a cattle operation, this number is a direct reflection of the deep-rooted ranching heritage. Your neighbors will most likely not arrive on helicopters like in the TV show, but you’ll see them on horseback and driving their truck to tend to their animals. There’s a beauty to this aspect of the state and a better understanding of the work that goes into raising cattle is a benefit that only Montana brings.
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Climate Variety
You may think of Montana as only harsh winters and short summers. This is not true. Depending on the location you select as your destination in Montana, the climate may be lot milder than you predict. Spring arrives early on the west side of the Continental Divide, but you may need to wait a bit longer for the other side. If you live out-of-state and are looking to move here, talk to your broker or agent about the location that best fits your needs.
There’s no doubt that Montana goes well beyond the outstanding and vast landscapes. You can build a perfect life here whether cattle ranching or just education are your main drivers. We cannot wait to welcome you here.
