Why Move to Anaconda?
Anaconda is a town of 9,421 people in Deer Lodge County County, sitting at 5,279 feet in elevation. Known as "The Smelter City," it combines the best of Montana living — stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong community — with small-city conveniences.
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Anaconda specifically offers 303 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 5.7x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Anaconda
The typical home value in Anaconda is $280,297, with homes currently listing at a median of $318,167. Renters can expect to pay around $661 per month. The median household income is $49,533.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 5.7x, which is above average — plan your budget carefully.
Montana has no state sales tax, which saves residents money on everyday purchases. The state also has no tax on Social Security or other retirement income. Property taxes are moderate, based on assessed value.
Anaconda Housing Market
There are currently 42 homes for sale in Anaconda — down 20.8% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 5,506 total housing units with a 17.2% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
Inventory data from Zillow Research (Jan 2026). Vacancy & housing units from U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year 2019–2023. Market conditions change — verify current listings before making decisions.
See detailed housing data and percentile rankings on the full Anaconda profile.
Anaconda Weather & Climate
Anaconda experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 78°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 12°F. Expect about 25" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 12°F | 1.2" | 3.3" |
| Feb | 29°F | 10°F | 1.9" | 5.2" |
| Mar | 37°F | 16°F | 1.3" | 3.2" |
| Apr | 44°F | 22°F | 1.8" | 3.3" |
| May | 57°F | 34°F | 3.4" | 2.2" |
| Jun | 67°F | 42°F | 2.7" | 0.3" |
| Jul | 78°F | 49°F | 1.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 77°F | 50°F | 1.7" | 0" |
| Sep | 68°F | 42°F | 1.7" | 0.4" |
| Oct | 52°F | 28°F | 1.8" | 2.3" |
| Nov | 41°F | 19°F | 1.2" | 2.3" |
| Dec | 34°F | 14°F | 1" | 2.6" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Anaconda
Anaconda has access to 303 recreation and attraction sites spanning 18 categories. For skiing, Discovery Ski Area is 16 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Fairmont Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 8 miles
- Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness (Wilderness) — 11 miles
- Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Route (Scenic Drive) — 14 miles
- Discovery Ski Area (Ski Area) — 16 miles
- Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF (National Forest) — 23 miles
- Boulder Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 40 miles
- Maverick Mountain (Ski Area) — 41 miles
- Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 41 miles
Rivers
Big Hole River, Rock Creek, Jefferson River, Bitterroot River, Blackfoot River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Barker Lakes, Thornton Lake, Hunters Lake, Porcupine Lake, Big Pozega Lake.
Hot Springs
Fairmont Hot Springs (8 mi), Boulder Hot Springs (40 mi), Elkhorn Hot Springs (46 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 303 recreation sites on the full Anaconda profile.
Jobs & Economy in Anaconda
Anaconda has an unemployment rate of 4.9%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 54.7%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (25.8%), Tourism & Hospitality (11.3%), Construction (10.7%). Approximately 4,452 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 25.8% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 11.3% |
| Construction | 10.7% |
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it attractive for both workers and retirees.
Employment and industry data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year 2019–2023. Current conditions may differ.
Schools & Education
Anaconda is served by the Anaconda Public Schools school district with approximately 1,600 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 83%, which is below the state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,000.
Visit Anaconda Public Schools for enrollment information and school performance data.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Anaconda
Anaconda has its own hospital — Community Hospital of Anaconda (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 72 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Anaconda
Anaconda is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 108 miles (123 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 256 miles (271 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 92 miles (107 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 195 miles (210 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 144 miles (159 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Anaconda
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 303+ recreation sites nearby
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Discovery Ski Area (16 mi)
- Has a local hospital
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Anaconda, Montana?
The typical home value is $280,297 and rent averages $661/month. The median household income is $49,533. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Anaconda?
January lows average 12°F with about 25" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Anaconda a good place to live?
Anaconda offers 303 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 5.7x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Anaconda?
As of early 2026, there were 42 homes for sale in Anaconda, down 20.8% from the prior year. The community has 5,506 total housing units with a 17.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Anaconda?
Anaconda has a 4.9% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 54.7%. About 4,452 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is education & healthcare. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Anaconda?
The Anaconda Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 83%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 1,600 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,000.
What healthcare is available in Anaconda?
Anaconda has a local hospital, Community Hospital of Anaconda. The nearest major trauma center is Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, 72 miles away. There are 7 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Anaconda?
Discovery Ski Area is 16 miles from Anaconda. The area receives about 25" of snow annually.