Moving to Butte, Montana: Everything You Need to Know

Butte is a city of 34,494 people in Silver Bow County County, sitting at 5,741 feet in elevation. Known as "The Richest Hill on Earth," 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. Butte specifically offers 287 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 4.7x, and four distinct seasons.

The typical home value in Butte is $271,170, with homes currently listing at a median of $289,417. Renters can expect to pay around $1,341 per month. The median household income is $57,633.

The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 4.7x, 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.

There are currently 153 homes for sale in Butte — up 4.8% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 17,034 total housing units with a 11.7% 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.

Butte experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 78°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 10°F. Expect about 22" of snow annually.

Butte has access to 287 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. For skiing, Discovery Ski Area is 38 miles from town.

Top Nearby Attractions

• Fairmont Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 15 miles
• Boulder Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 24 miles
• Renova Hotspring (Hot Spring) — 25 miles
• Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF (National Forest) — 27 miles
• Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness (Wilderness) — 30 miles
• Potosi Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 30 miles
• Alhambra Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 36 miles
• Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Route (Scenic Drive) — 36 miles

Rivers

Jefferson River, Big Hole River, Beaverhead River, Madison River (Ennis) are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.

Lakes

Nearby lakes include West Side Reservoir, Moulton Distribution Reservoir, Moulton Reservoir Number One, B and B Fishpond, Bison Retriever Lake.

Hot Springs

Fairmont Hot Springs (15 mi), Boulder Hot Springs (24 mi), Renova Hotspring (25 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.

Butte has an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 58.1%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.

The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (23.5%), Retail (11.4%), Tourism & Hospitality (10.2%). Approximately 15,705 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.

Butte is served by the Butte Public Schools school district with approximately 4,200 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 80%, which is below the state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,500.

Visit Butte Public Schools for enrollment information and school performance data.

Butte 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.

Butte has its own hospital — St. James Healthcare (73 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 75.8 miles away.

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

Butte is accessible via the following airports:

• Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 82 miles (97 min drive)
• Billings Logan Intl — 231 miles (246 min drive)
• Missoula Intl — 116 miles (131 min drive)
• Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 214 miles (229 min drive)
• Great Falls Intl — 139 miles (154 min drive)

What is the cost of living in Butte, Montana?

The typical home value is $271,170 and rent averages $1,341/month. The median household income is $57,633. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.

What are winters like in Butte?

January lows average 10°F with about 22" of annual snowfall. Winter driving skills and proper vehicle preparation are essential.

Is Butte a good place to live?

Butte offers 287 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 4.7x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.

How many homes are for sale in Butte?

As of early 2026, there were 153 homes for sale in Butte, up 4.8% from the prior year. The community has 17,034 total housing units with a 11.7% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.

What is the job market like in Butte?

Butte has a 4.3% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 58.1%. About 15,705 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 Butte?

The Butte Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 80%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 4,200 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,500.

What healthcare is available in Butte?

Butte has a local hospital, St. James Healthcare. The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 75.8 miles away. There are 8 hospitals within 60 miles.

Where is the nearest skiing to Butte?

Discovery Ski Area is 38 miles from Butte. The area receives about 22" of snow annually.