Why Move to Belgrade?
Belgrade is a city of 12,509 people in Gallatin County County, sitting at 4,462 feet in elevation. Known as "The Hub of the Gallatin Valley," 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. Belgrade specifically offers 250 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 6x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Belgrade
The typical home value in Belgrade is $536,633, with homes currently listing at a median of $606,650. Renters can expect to pay around $2,111 per month. The median household income is $88,896.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 6x, 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.
Belgrade Housing Market
There are currently 96 homes for sale in Belgrade — up 23.1% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 4,858 total housing units with a 2.7% vacancy rate — a tight market where buyers should be prepared to act quickly.
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 Belgrade profile.
Belgrade Weather & Climate
Belgrade experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 84°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 18°F. Expect about 21" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 36°F | 18°F | 1" | 2.5" |
| Feb | 30°F | 10°F | 1.7" | 4.7" |
| Mar | 42°F | 20°F | 1.5" | 3.3" |
| Apr | 52°F | 27°F | 2.5" | 2.4" |
| May | 62°F | 38°F | 2.9" | 0.8" |
| Jun | 73°F | 47°F | 3.1" | 0.1" |
| Jul | 84°F | 54°F | 0.6" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 54°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Sep | 73°F | 46°F | 2" | 0.2" |
| Oct | 55°F | 32°F | 2.4" | 2.6" |
| Nov | 42°F | 23°F | 1.3" | 2.2" |
| Dec | 36°F | 19°F | 1" | 2.3" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Belgrade
Belgrade has access to 250 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 57 miles away. For skiing, Bridger Bowl is 14 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 10 miles
- Bridger Bowl (Ski Area) — 14 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 17 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 26 miles
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 29 miles
- Big Sky Resort (Ski Area) — 35 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Madison Range) (Wilderness) — 40 miles
- Chico Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 40 miles
Rivers
Gallatin River, Yellowstone River (Livingston), Madison River (Ennis), Jefferson River, Boulder River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include River Rock Lake, Kendena Lake, Meyers Lake, North Lake, Glen Lake.
Hot Springs
Bozeman Hot Springs (10 mi), Norris Hot Springs (29 mi), Chico Hot Springs (40 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 250 recreation sites on the full Belgrade profile.
Jobs & Economy in Belgrade
Belgrade has an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 77.7%, reflecting an active and engaged workforce.
The top industries by employment are Construction (18.8%), Education & Healthcare (16.6%), Retail (13.7%). Approximately 6,710 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Construction | 18.8% |
| Education & Healthcare | 16.6% |
| Retail | 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
Belgrade is served by the Belgrade Public Schools school district with approximately 3,800 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 92%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,600.
Visit Belgrade 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 Belgrade
The nearest hospital is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 9.6 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 9.6 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Belgrade
Belgrade is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 5 miles (17 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 153 miles (168 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 191 miles (206 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 273 miles (288 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 142 miles (157 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Belgrade
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 250+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (2.5%)
- Strong schools (92% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Bridger Bowl (14 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Distance from major metro areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Belgrade, Montana?
The typical home value is $536,633 and rent averages $2,111/month. The median household income is $88,896. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Belgrade?
January lows average 18°F with about 21" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Belgrade a good place to live?
Belgrade offers 250 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 6x, and four distinct seasons. It's 57 miles from Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Belgrade?
As of early 2026, there were 96 homes for sale in Belgrade, up 23.1% from the prior year. The community has 4,858 total housing units with a 2.7% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Belgrade?
Belgrade has a 2.5% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 77.7%. About 6,710 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is construction. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Belgrade?
The Belgrade Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 92%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 3,800 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,600.
What healthcare is available in Belgrade?
The nearest hospital is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (9.6 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 9.6 miles away. There are 8 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Belgrade?
Bridger Bowl is 14 miles from Belgrade. The area receives about 21" of snow annually.