Why Move to Bozeman?
Bozeman is a city of 58,000 people in Gallatin County County, sitting at 4,826 feet in elevation. Known as "The Gallatin Gateway," it combines the best of Montana living — stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong community — with the amenities of a mid-size city.
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Bozeman specifically offers 284 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 8.8x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Bozeman
The typical home value in Bozeman is $703,092, with homes currently listing at a median of $744,100. Renters can expect to pay around $2,114 per month. The median household income is $79,903.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 8.8x, 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.
Bozeman Housing Market
There are currently 339 homes for sale in Bozeman — up 6.3% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 24,846 total housing units with a 6.9% 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.
See detailed housing data and percentile rankings on the full Bozeman profile.
Bozeman Weather & Climate
Bozeman experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 82°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 17°F. Expect about 23" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 35°F | 17°F | 1.1" | 2.8" |
| Feb | 28°F | 10°F | 1.9" | 5" |
| Mar | 39°F | 20°F | 1.5" | 3.6" |
| Apr | 49°F | 26°F | 2.5" | 3.3" |
| May | 60°F | 38°F | 2.4" | 0.8" |
| Jun | 71°F | 47°F | 2.4" | 0" |
| Jul | 82°F | 54°F | 0.4" | 0" |
| Aug | 80°F | 54°F | 1" | 0" |
| Sep | 70°F | 46°F | 1.8" | 0.2" |
| Oct | 52°F | 31°F | 2.5" | 3" |
| Nov | 41°F | 22°F | 1.1" | 2" |
| Dec | 35°F | 17°F | 0.9" | 2.4" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Bozeman
Bozeman has access to 284 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 48 miles away. For skiing, Bridger Bowl is 12 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 5 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 9 miles
- Bridger Bowl (Ski Area) — 12 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 23 miles
- Chico Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 30 miles
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 32 miles
- Big Sky Resort (Ski Area) — 32 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Madison Range) (Wilderness) — 37 miles
Rivers
Gallatin River, Yellowstone River (Livingston), Madison River (Ennis), Jefferson River, Boulder River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Glen Lake, Kendena Lake, North Lake, Meyers Lake, Hyalite Reservoir.
Hot Springs
Bozeman Hot Springs (5 mi), Chico Hot Springs (30 mi), Norris Hot Springs (32 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 284 recreation sites on the full Bozeman profile.
Jobs & Economy in Bozeman
Bozeman has an unemployment rate of 3.1%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 72.1%, reflecting an active and engaged workforce.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (26.5%), Professional Services (14.6%), Retail (12.9%). Approximately 33,894 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 26.5% |
| Professional Services | 14.6% |
| Retail | 12.9% |
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
Bozeman is served by the Bozeman Public Schools school district with approximately 8,500 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 93%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,800.
Visit Bozeman Public Schools for enrollment information and school performance data.
Bozeman also has access to higher education institutions and continuing education programs.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Bozeman
Bozeman has its own hospital — Bozeman Health Deaconess (86 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 0.5 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Bozeman
Bozeman is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 10 miles (25 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 145 miles (160 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 202 miles (217 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 284 miles (299 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 151 miles (166 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Bozeman
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 284+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (3.1%)
- Strong schools (93% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Bridger Bowl (12 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- Has a local hospital
- Strong healthcare access
- Good amenities and services
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Distance from major metro areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Bozeman, Montana?
The typical home value is $703,092 and rent averages $2,114/month. The median household income is $79,903. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Bozeman?
January lows average 17°F with about 23" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Bozeman a good place to live?
Bozeman offers 284 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 8.8x, and four distinct seasons. It's 48 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 Bozeman?
As of early 2026, there were 339 homes for sale in Bozeman, up 6.3% from the prior year. The community has 24,846 total housing units with a 6.9% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Bozeman?
Bozeman has a 3.1% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 72.1%. About 33,894 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 Bozeman?
The Bozeman Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 93%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 8,500 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,800.
What healthcare is available in Bozeman?
Bozeman has a local hospital, Bozeman Health Deaconess. The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 0.5 miles away. There are 7 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Bozeman?
Bridger Bowl is 12 miles from Bozeman. The area receives about 23" of snow annually.