Why Move to Big Sandy?
Big Sandy is a small town of 605 people in Chouteau County County, sitting at 2,700 feet in elevation. Known as "The Heart of the Hi-Line," 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. Big Sandy specifically offers 77 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 4.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Big Sandy
The typical home value in Big Sandy is $245,965. Renters can expect to pay around $620 per month. The median household income is $58,083.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 4.2x, which is moderate and comparable to the national average.
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.
Big Sandy Housing Market
There are currently 5 homes for sale in Big Sandy. The community has 330 total housing units with a 15.5% 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 Big Sandy profile.
Big Sandy Weather & Climate
Big Sandy experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 87°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 18°F. Expect about 13" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 35°F | 18°F | 0.7" | 1.4" |
| Feb | 28°F | 11°F | 1" | 2.5" |
| Mar | 41°F | 22°F | 0.8" | 1.7" |
| Apr | 53°F | 33°F | 1.3" | 1.6" |
| May | 66°F | 45°F | 2" | 0.4" |
| Jun | 76°F | 55°F | 2.6" | 0" |
| Jul | 87°F | 62°F | 0.4" | 0" |
| Aug | 84°F | 60°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 51°F | 1.2" | 0.4" |
| Oct | 55°F | 36°F | 1.2" | 1.1" |
| Nov | 42°F | 25°F | 1.1" | 1.9" |
| Dec | 34°F | 18°F | 1" | 2.2" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Big Sandy
Big Sandy has access to 77 recreation and attraction sites spanning 10 categories. For skiing, Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 24 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 24 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Triple Lake Reservoir, Miller Reservoir, Hankins Reservoirs, Fresno Reservoir, T U Reservoir.
Explore all 77 recreation sites on the full Big Sandy profile.
Jobs & Economy in Big Sandy
Big Sandy has an unemployment rate of 10.3%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 61.9%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (32%), Construction (14.8%), Government (11.7%). Approximately 359 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 32% |
| Construction | 14.8% |
| Government | 11.7% |
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
Big Sandy is served by the Big Sandy K-12 Schools school district with approximately 120 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Big Sandy
The nearest hospital is Northern Montana Hospital in Havre, 32.2 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 70.9 miles away.
Note: Healthcare access in Big Sandy is limited. If you have ongoing medical needs, consider proximity to Benefis Health System when making your decision.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Big Sandy
Big Sandy is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 208 miles (223 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 216 miles (231 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 246 miles (261 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 229 miles (244 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 91 miles (106 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Big Sandy
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Bear Paw Ski Bowl (24 mi)
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Higher unemployment (10.3%)
- Limited healthcare access (nearest hospital: 32.2 mi)
- 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 Big Sandy, Montana?
The typical home value is $245,965 and rent averages $620/month. The median household income is $58,083. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Big Sandy?
January lows average 18°F with about 13" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Big Sandy a good place to live?
Big Sandy offers 77 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 4.2x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Big Sandy?
As of early 2026, there were 5 homes for sale in Big Sandy. The community has 330 total housing units with a 15.5% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Big Sandy?
Big Sandy has a 10.3% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 61.9%. About 359 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 Big Sandy?
The nearest hospital is Northern Montana Hospital in Havre (32.2 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 70.9 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Big Sandy?
Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 24 miles from Big Sandy. The area receives about 13" of snow annually.