Why Move to Belt?
Belt is a small town of 515 people in Cascade County County, sitting at 3,510 feet in elevation. Known as "The Little Belt Gateway," 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. Belt specifically offers 100 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 5.3x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Belt
The typical home value in Belt is $379,422. Renters can expect to pay around $910 per month. The median household income is $72,083.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 5.3x, 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.
Belt Housing Market
There are currently 15 homes for sale in Belt — up 50% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 255 total housing units with a 20.4% 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 Belt profile.
Belt Weather & Climate
Belt experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 84°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 23°F. Expect about 23" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 23°F | 1.1" | 2.4" |
| Feb | 29°F | 12°F | 1.7" | 4.4" |
| Mar | 42°F | 24°F | 1" | 2.1" |
| Apr | 51°F | 31°F | 2.5" | 3.9" |
| May | 62°F | 42°F | 2.8" | 1" |
| Jun | 73°F | 51°F | 2.8" | 0" |
| Jul | 84°F | 59°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 59°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 73°F | 51°F | 1.6" | 0.4" |
| Oct | 55°F | 36°F | 2.2" | 3.2" |
| Nov | 44°F | 28°F | 1.3" | 2.5" |
| Dec | 38°F | 22°F | 1.1" | 2.7" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Belt
Belt has access to 100 recreation and attraction sites spanning 18 categories. For skiing, Showdown Montana is 39 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Kings Hill Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 36 miles
- Showdown Montana (Ski Area) — 39 miles
- Gates of the Mountains Wilderness (Wilderness) — 57 miles
- Spa Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 58 miles
- Helena-Lewis & Clark NF (National Forest) — 69 miles
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 75 miles
- Scapegoat Wilderness (Wilderness) — 91 miles
Rivers
Missouri River (Great Falls), Smith River, Sun River, Missouri River (Craig) are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Lost Lake, Eightmile Springs, Hankins Reservoirs, Rhoda Lake, Little Phantom Lake.
Hot Springs
Spa Hot Springs (58 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 100 recreation sites on the full Belt profile.
Jobs & Economy in Belt
Belt has an unemployment rate of 7.5%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 68%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (37%), Construction (14.1%), Retail (13.8%). Approximately 297 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 37% |
| Construction | 14.1% |
| Retail | 13.8% |
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
Belt is served by the Belt Public Schools school district with approximately 280 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Belt
The nearest hospital is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 18.9 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 18.9 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Belt
Belt is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 134 miles (149 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 189 miles (204 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 183 miles (198 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 200 miles (215 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 26 miles (41 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Belt
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Showdown Montana (39 mi)
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Higher unemployment (7.5%)
- 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 Belt, Montana?
The typical home value is $379,422 and rent averages $910/month. The median household income is $72,083. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Belt?
January lows average 23°F with about 23" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Belt a good place to live?
Belt offers 100 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 5.3x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Belt?
As of early 2026, there were 15 homes for sale in Belt, up 50% from the prior year. The community has 255 total housing units with a 20.4% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Belt?
Belt has a 7.5% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 68%. About 297 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is education & healthcare. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
What healthcare is available in Belt?
The nearest hospital is Benefis Health System in Great Falls (18.9 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 18.9 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Belt?
Showdown Montana is 39 miles from Belt. The area receives about 23" of snow annually.