Why Move to Baker?
Baker is a small town of 1,780 people in Fallon County County, sitting at 2,946 feet in elevation. Known as "The Heart of Fallon County," it combines the best of Montana living — stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong community — with authentic small-town charm.
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Baker specifically offers 18 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Baker
The typical home value in Baker is $169,994. Renters can expect to pay around $772 per month. The median household income is $78,971.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 2.2x, which is very affordable by national standards.
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.
Baker Housing Market
There are currently 19 homes for sale in Baker — up 137.5% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 854 total housing units with a 20.6% 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 Baker profile.
Baker Weather & Climate
Baker experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 84°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 17°F. Expect about 14" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 17°F | 0.7" | 1.6" |
| Feb | 27°F | 9°F | 0.8" | 2.2" |
| Mar | 40°F | 21°F | 0.5" | 1.3" |
| Apr | 50°F | 30°F | 1.7" | 3" |
| May | 63°F | 43°F | 2.9" | 0.7" |
| Jun | 77°F | 56°F | 2.1" | 0" |
| Jul | 84°F | 62°F | 2.1" | 0" |
| Aug | 82°F | 60°F | 1.7" | 0" |
| Sep | 73°F | 52°F | 1.8" | 0" |
| Oct | 52°F | 35°F | 1.9" | 2.4" |
| Nov | 41°F | 25°F | 0.6" | 1.3" |
| Dec | 33°F | 17°F | 0.8" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Baker
Baker has access to 18 recreation and attraction sites spanning 8 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Abel Reservoir, Mobray Reservoir Number 2, Mobray Reservoir Number 3, Crisafulli Lake, Hollecker Lake.
Explore all 18 recreation sites on the full Baker profile.
Jobs & Economy in Baker
Baker has an unemployment rate of 0%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 60.3%.
The top industries by employment are Agriculture & Mining (27.6%), Retail (15.7%), Education & Healthcare (13.7%). Approximately 760 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Agriculture & Mining | 27.6% |
| Retail | 15.7% |
| Education & Healthcare | 13.7% |
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
Baker is served by the Baker K-12 Schools school district with approximately 400 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 92%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Baker
Baker has its own hospital — Fallon Medical Complex (24 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 206.5 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Baker
Baker is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 398 miles (413 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 250 miles (265 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 560 miles (575 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 583 miles (598 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 412 miles (427 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Baker
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Strong schools (92% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Limited shopping and dining options
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Baker, Montana?
The typical home value is $169,994 and rent averages $772/month. The median household income is $78,971. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Baker?
January lows average 17°F with about 14" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Baker a good place to live?
Baker offers 18 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 2.2x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Baker?
As of early 2026, there were 19 homes for sale in Baker, up 137.5% from the prior year. The community has 854 total housing units with a 20.6% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Baker?
Baker has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 60.3%. About 760 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is agriculture & mining. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Baker?
The Baker K-12 Schools school district has a graduation rate of 92%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 400 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Baker?
Baker has a local hospital, Fallon Medical Complex. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 206.5 miles away. There are 2 hospitals within 60 miles.