Why Move to Big Sky?
Big Sky is a town of 3,591 people in Gallatin County County, sitting at 6,319 feet in elevation. Known as "The Biggest Skiing in America," 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 Sky specifically offers 282 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 17.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Big Sky
The typical home value in Big Sky is $1,784,845, with homes currently listing at a median of $2,391,667. Renters can expect to pay around $1,712 per month. The median household income is $103,625.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 17.2x, which is on the expensive side, reflecting strong demand.
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 Sky Housing Market
There are currently 115 homes for sale in Big Sky — up 9.5% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 3,118 total housing units with a 64.9% 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 Sky profile.
Big Sky Weather & Climate
Big Sky experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 76°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 15°F. Expect about 57" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°F | 15°F | 2" | 5.4" |
| Feb | 27°F | 12°F | 2.7" | 7.4" |
| Mar | 36°F | 19°F | 2.3" | 6.3" |
| Apr | 42°F | 24°F | 3.1" | 8.1" |
| May | 53°F | 34°F | 3.7" | 7.7" |
| Jun | 64°F | 41°F | 3.2" | 2.4" |
| Jul | 76°F | 52°F | 1.9" | 0" |
| Aug | 74°F | 52°F | 2.6" | 0.3" |
| Sep | 66°F | 44°F | 2.7" | 2" |
| Oct | 48°F | 28°F | 3.3" | 7.2" |
| Nov | 36°F | 18°F | 1.9" | 5.1" |
| Dec | 30°F | 14°F | 1.8" | 5" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Big Sky
Big Sky has access to 282 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 33 miles away. For skiing, Big Sky Resort is 5 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Big Sky Resort (Ski Area) — 5 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Madison Range) (Wilderness) — 6 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 11 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 24 miles
- Yellowstone Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 27 miles
- Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 28 miles
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 28 miles
- Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) (National Park) — 33 miles
Rivers
Gallatin River, Madison River (Ennis), Yellowstone River (Livingston), Jefferson River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Chilled Lakes, Meadow Lake, No Man Lake, Crag Lake, Leech Lake.
Hot Springs
Yellowstone Hot Springs (27 mi), Bozeman Hot Springs (28 mi), Norris Hot Springs (28 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 282 recreation sites on the full Big Sky profile.
Jobs & Economy in Big Sky
Big Sky has an unemployment rate of 2.1%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 78%, reflecting an active and engaged workforce.
The top industries by employment are Tourism & Hospitality (35%), Education & Healthcare (14.7%), Finance & Real Estate (10.2%). Approximately 1,569 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Tourism & Hospitality | 35% |
| Education & Healthcare | 14.7% |
| Finance & Real Estate | 10.2% |
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 Sky is served by the Ophir School District school district with approximately 300 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 96%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $16,000.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Big Sky
Big Sky has its own hospital — Big Sky Medical Center (4 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 32.1 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Big Sky
Big Sky is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 44 miles (59 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 167 miles (182 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 211 miles (226 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 303 miles (318 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 184 miles (199 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Big Sky
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 282+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (2.1%)
- Strong schools (96% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Big Sky Resort (5 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- Has a local hospital
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Limited shopping and dining options
- Distance from major metro areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Big Sky, Montana?
The typical home value is $1,784,845 and rent averages $1,712/month. The median household income is $103,625. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Big Sky?
January lows average 15°F with about 57" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Big Sky a good place to live?
Big Sky offers 282 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 17.2x, and four distinct seasons. It's 33 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 Big Sky?
As of early 2026, there were 115 homes for sale in Big Sky, up 9.5% from the prior year. The community has 3,118 total housing units with a 64.9% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Big Sky?
Big Sky has a 2.1% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 78%. About 1,569 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is tourism & hospitality. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Big Sky?
The Ophir School District school district has a graduation rate of 96%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 300 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $16,000.
What healthcare is available in Big Sky?
Big Sky has a local hospital, Big Sky Medical Center. The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 32.1 miles away. There are 5 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Big Sky?
Big Sky Resort is 5 miles from Big Sky. The area receives about 57" of snow annually.