Why Move to Browning?
Browning is a small town of 1,000 people in Glacier County County, sitting at 4,377 feet in elevation. Known as "Heart of the Blackfeet Nation," 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. Browning specifically offers 297 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.7x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Browning
The typical home value in Browning is $126,005. Renters can expect to pay around $617 per month. The median household income is $34,318.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.7x, 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.
Browning Housing Market
Browning. The community has 356 total housing units with a 15.2% 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 Browning profile.
Browning Weather & Climate
Browning experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 77°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 18°F. Expect about 26" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31°F | 18°F | 1.2" | 2.8" |
| Feb | 23°F | 9°F | 1.7" | 4.4" |
| Mar | 35°F | 18°F | 1.3" | 3" |
| Apr | 45°F | 25°F | 1.6" | 3.2" |
| May | 57°F | 37°F | 2.9" | 1.9" |
| Jun | 67°F | 46°F | 2.7" | 0.1" |
| Jul | 77°F | 51°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 76°F | 52°F | 1.2" | 0" |
| Sep | 66°F | 44°F | 1.7" | 1.2" |
| Oct | 49°F | 31°F | 1.6" | 2.2" |
| Nov | 37°F | 24°F | 1.9" | 3.4" |
| Dec | 30°F | 18°F | 1.6" | 3.6" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Browning
Browning has access to 297 recreation and attraction sites spanning 17 categories. Glacier National Park (East Glacier) is just 12 miles away. For skiing, Teton Pass Ski Area is 56 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Glacier National Park (East Glacier) (National Park) — 12 miles
- Going-to-the-Sun Road (Scenic Drive) — 34 miles
- Glacier National Park (West Glacier) (National Park) — 44 miles
- Flathead National Forest (National Forest) — 51 miles
- Great Bear Wilderness (Wilderness) — 51 miles
- Teton Pass Ski Area (Ski Area) — 56 miles
- Lee's Way (Ski Area) — 60 miles
- Whitey's (Ski Area) — 60 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Dead Dog Lake, Four Horns Lake, Swift Reservoir, Cracker Lake, Stump Lake.
Explore all 297 recreation sites on the full Browning profile.
Jobs & Economy in Browning
Browning has an unemployment rate of 15.6%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 58.6%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (31.5%), Tourism & Hospitality (19%), Retail (17.6%). Approximately 336 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 31.5% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 19% |
| Retail | 17.6% |
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
Browning is served by the Browning Public Schools school district with approximately 1,600 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 55%, which is significantly below the state average.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Browning
The nearest hospital is Northern Rockies Medical Center in Cut Bank, 32 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 64.3 miles away.
Note: Healthcare access in Browning is limited. If you have ongoing medical needs, consider proximity to Logan Health Medical Center when making your decision.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Browning
Browning is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 253 miles (268 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 340 miles (355 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 149 miles (164 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 71 miles (86 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 128 miles (143 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Browning
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 297+ recreation sites nearby
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Skiing at Teton Pass Ski Area (56 mi)
- Near Glacier National Park (East Glacier)
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Higher unemployment (15.6%)
- Below-average school graduation rate (55%)
- Limited healthcare access (nearest hospital: 32 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 Browning, Montana?
The typical home value is $126,005 and rent averages $617/month. The median household income is $34,318. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Browning?
January lows average 18°F with about 26" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Browning a good place to live?
Browning offers 297 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.7x, and four distinct seasons. It's 12 miles from Glacier National Park (East Glacier). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Browning?
Housing availability varies. The community has 356 total housing units with a 15.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Browning?
Browning has a 15.6% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 58.6%. About 336 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 Browning?
The Browning Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 55%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 1,600 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Browning?
The nearest hospital is Northern Rockies Medical Center in Cut Bank (32 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell, 64.3 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Browning?
Teton Pass Ski Area is 56 miles from Browning. The area receives about 26" of snow annually.