Why Move to Boulder?
Boulder is a small town of 1,201 people in Jefferson County County, sitting at 4,908 feet in elevation. Known as "The Gateway to the Elkhorns," 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. Boulder specifically offers 261 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 5.5x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Boulder
The typical home value in Boulder is $339,694. Renters can expect to pay around $692 per month. The median household income is $61,250.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 5.5x, 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.
Boulder Housing Market
There are currently 15 homes for sale in Boulder. The community has 585 total housing units with a 10.1% 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.
See detailed housing data and percentile rankings on the full Boulder profile.
Boulder Weather & Climate
Boulder experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 80°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 14°F. Expect about 21" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 14°F | 0.9" | 2.3" |
| Feb | 28°F | 9°F | 1.4" | 3.7" |
| Mar | 38°F | 17°F | 1" | 2.6" |
| Apr | 46°F | 24°F | 1.9" | 3.6" |
| May | 59°F | 35°F | 2.7" | 1.9" |
| Jun | 70°F | 44°F | 3" | 0.4" |
| Jul | 80°F | 50°F | 1" | 0" |
| Aug | 79°F | 51°F | 1.4" | 0" |
| Sep | 70°F | 43°F | 1.4" | 0.4" |
| Oct | 52°F | 30°F | 1.6" | 2.4" |
| Nov | 41°F | 21°F | 0.8" | 1.7" |
| Dec | 34°F | 16°F | 0.8" | 2" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Boulder
Boulder has access to 261 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. For skiing, Discovery Ski Area is 54 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Boulder Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 2 miles
- Alhambra Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 13 miles
- Broadwater Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 25 miles
- Renova Hotspring (Hot Spring) — 31 miles
- Fairmont Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 32 miles
- Helena-Lewis & Clark NF (National Forest) — 33 miles
- Potosi Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 33 miles
- Gates of the Mountains Wilderness (Wilderness) — 44 miles
Rivers
Jefferson River, Missouri River (Craig) are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include South Fork Crow Creek Lakes, Chessman Reservoir, B and B Fishpond, Bison Retriever Lake, Moulton Reservoir Number One.
Hot Springs
Boulder Hot Springs (2 mi), Alhambra Hot Springs (13 mi), Broadwater Hot Springs (25 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 261 recreation sites on the full Boulder profile.
Jobs & Economy in Boulder
Boulder has an unemployment rate of 6.5%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 62.2%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (29.4%), Retail (12.8%), Government (11.9%). Approximately 623 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 29.4% |
| Retail | 12.8% |
| Government | 11.9% |
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
Boulder is served by the Boulder Public Schools school district with approximately 250 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 89%, which is near the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Boulder
The nearest hospital is St. Peter's Health in Helena, 25.1 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 64.7 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Boulder
Boulder is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 68 miles (83 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 209 miles (224 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 126 miles (141 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 210 miles (225 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 112 miles (127 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Boulder
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 261+ recreation sites nearby
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Discovery Ski Area (54 mi)
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Higher unemployment (6.5%)
- 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 Boulder, Montana?
The typical home value is $339,694 and rent averages $692/month. The median household income is $61,250. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Boulder?
January lows average 14°F with about 21" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Boulder a good place to live?
Boulder offers 261 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 5.5x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Boulder?
As of early 2026, there were 15 homes for sale in Boulder. The community has 585 total housing units with a 10.1% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Boulder?
Boulder has a 6.5% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 62.2%. About 623 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is education & healthcare. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Boulder?
The Boulder Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 89%, near the state average. Approximately 250 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Boulder?
The nearest hospital is St. Peter's Health in Helena (25.1 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 64.7 miles away. There are 7 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Boulder?
Discovery Ski Area is 54 miles from Boulder. The area receives about 21" of snow annually.