Moving to Big Timber, Montana: Everything You Need to Know

Big Timber is a small town of 1,715 people in Sweet Grass County County, sitting at 4,091 feet in elevation. Known as "The Sweet Grass Jewel," 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 Timber specifically offers 392 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 6.6x, and four distinct seasons.

The typical home value in Big Timber is $416,669, with homes currently listing at a median of $522,667. Renters can expect to pay around $1,009 per month. The median household income is $63,514.

The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 6.6x, 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.

There are currently 29 homes for sale in Big Timber — up 45% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 775 total housing units with a 12.9% vacancy rate.

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.

Big Timber experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 24°F. Expect about 16" of snow annually.

Big Timber has access to 392 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 67 miles away. For skiing, Bridger Bowl is 45 miles from town.

Top Nearby Attractions

• Custer-Gallatin NF (National Forest) — 32 miles
• Bridger Bowl (Ski Area) — 45 miles
• Chico Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 46 miles
• Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness (Wilderness) — 50 miles
• Red Lodge Mountain (Ski Area) — 54 miles
• Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 56 miles
• Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 57 miles
• Beartooth Highway (Scenic Drive) — 62 miles

Rivers

Boulder River, Stillwater River, Yellowstone River (Livingston), Yellowstone River (Columbus) are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.

Lakes

Nearby lakes include Beley Pond, First Creek Reservoir, Glass Lindsay Lakes Lower Reservoir, Smeller Lake, Granite Lake.

Hot Springs

Chico Hot Springs (46 mi), Bozeman Hot Springs (57 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.

Big Timber has an unemployment rate of 5%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 59.5%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.

The top industries by employment are Construction (19.1%), Education & Healthcare (17.8%), Agriculture & Mining (16.5%). Approximately 696 residents are employed locally.

Employment by Industry

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.

Big Timber is served by the Big Timber Public Schools school district with approximately 350 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 95%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $13,500.

Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.

Big Timber has its own hospital — Pioneer Medical Center (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 53.1 miles away.

Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.

Big Timber is accessible via the following airports:

• Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 69 miles (84 min drive)
• Billings Logan Intl — 82 miles (97 min drive)
• Missoula Intl — 253 miles (268 min drive)
• Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 318 miles (333 min drive)
• Great Falls Intl — 159 miles (174 min drive)

What is the cost of living in Big Timber, Montana?

The typical home value is $416,669 and rent averages $1,009/month. The median household income is $63,514. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.

What are winters like in Big Timber?

January lows average 24°F with about 16" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.

Is Big Timber a good place to live?

Big Timber offers 392 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 6.6x, and four distinct seasons. It's 67 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 Timber?

As of early 2026, there were 29 homes for sale in Big Timber, up 45% from the prior year. The community has 775 total housing units with a 12.9% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.

What is the job market like in Big Timber?

Big Timber has a 5% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 59.5%. About 696 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 Big Timber?

The Big Timber Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 95%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 350 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $13,500.

What healthcare is available in Big Timber?

Big Timber has a local hospital, Pioneer Medical Center. The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 53.1 miles away. There are 7 hospitals within 60 miles.

Where is the nearest skiing to Big Timber?

Bridger Bowl is 45 miles from Big Timber. The area receives about 16" of snow annually.