Why Move to Broadus?
Broadus is a small town of 470 people in Powder River County County, sitting at 3,035 feet in elevation. Known as "The Cowboy Capital of Montana," 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. Broadus specifically offers 13 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 4.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Broadus
The typical home value in Broadus is $231,669. Renters can expect to pay around $588 per month. The median household income is $54,792.
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.
Broadus Housing Market
Broadus. The community has 293 total housing units with a 36.5% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
Inventory data from Zillow Research (recent). 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 Broadus profile.
Broadus Weather & Climate
Broadus experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 88°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 20°F. Expect about 13" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 20°F | 0.6" | 1.3" |
| Feb | 31°F | 11°F | 0.9" | 2.3" |
| Mar | 44°F | 23°F | 0.6" | 1.4" |
| Apr | 53°F | 32°F | 1.8" | 2.8" |
| May | 66°F | 44°F | 2.3" | 0.4" |
| Jun | 79°F | 56°F | 1.8" | 0" |
| Jul | 88°F | 63°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Aug | 85°F | 61°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Sep | 77°F | 53°F | 1.7" | 0" |
| Oct | 56°F | 36°F | 1.5" | 2.2" |
| Nov | 46°F | 26°F | 0.5" | 1" |
| Dec | 37°F | 20°F | 0.6" | 1.4" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Broadus
Broadus has access to 13 recreation and attraction sites spanning 6 categories.
Rivers
Tongue River is within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Upper Wilbur Reservoir, Lower Coal Creek Reservoir, Corner Reservoir, Terrace Reservoir.
Explore all 13 recreation sites on the full Broadus profile.
Jobs & Economy in Broadus
Broadus has an unemployment rate of 2.6%, 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 Construction (17%), Retail (15.1%), Education & Healthcare (10.9%). Approximately 265 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Construction | 17% |
| Retail | 15.1% |
| Education & Healthcare | 10.9% |
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
Broadus is served by the Broadus Public Schools school district with approximately 100 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Broadus
The nearest hospital is Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City, 69.8 miles away. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 151.3 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Note: Healthcare access in Broadus is limited. If you have ongoing medical needs, consider proximity to Billings Clinic when making your decision.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Broadus
Broadus is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 334 miles (349 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 184 miles (199 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 513 miles (528 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 555 miles (570 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 380 miles (395 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Broadus
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Low unemployment (2.6%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited healthcare access (nearest hospital: 69.8 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 Broadus, Montana?
The typical home value is $231,669 and rent averages $588/month. The median household income is $54,792. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Broadus?
January lows average 20°F with about 13" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Broadus a good place to live?
Broadus offers 13 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 Broadus?
Housing availability varies. The community has 293 total housing units with a 36.5% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Broadus?
Broadus has a 2.6% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 72.1%. About 265 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is construction. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
What healthcare is available in Broadus?
The nearest hospital is Holy Rosary Healthcare in Miles City (69.8 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 151.3 miles away. There are 0 hospitals within 60 miles.