Why Move to Chester?
Chester is a small town of 829 people in Liberty County County, sitting at 3,133 feet in elevation. Known as "The Hi-Line Hometown," 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. Chester specifically offers 62 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.7x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Chester
The typical home value in Chester is $199,376. Renters can expect to pay around $662 per month. The median household income is $53,583.
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.
Chester Housing Market
There are currently 6 homes for sale in Chester — down 14.3% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 387 total housing units with a 15.5% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
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 Chester profile.
Chester Weather & Climate
Chester experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 84°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 17°F. Expect about 13" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 17°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Feb | 26°F | 9°F | 0.8" | 2.1" |
| Mar | 39°F | 19°F | 0.7" | 1.6" |
| Apr | 51°F | 31°F | 0.8" | 1.3" |
| May | 63°F | 43°F | 2" | 0.8" |
| Jun | 74°F | 53°F | 2" | 0" |
| Jul | 84°F | 59°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 81°F | 58°F | 0.7" | 0" |
| Sep | 71°F | 49°F | 1.1" | 0.9" |
| Oct | 52°F | 34°F | 0.9" | 1.2" |
| Nov | 39°F | 23°F | 1.1" | 2.2" |
| Dec | 31°F | 15°F | 0.7" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Chester
Chester has access to 62 recreation and attraction sites spanning 8 categories. For skiing, Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 69 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 69 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Tiber Reservoir, Fowler Reservoir, Miller Reservoir, Dunkirk Reservoir, Melcott Reservoir.
Explore all 62 recreation sites on the full Chester profile.
Jobs & Economy in Chester
Chester has an unemployment rate of 0.8%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 46.5%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (34.1%), Retail (10.6%), Wholesale (9.8%). Approximately 255 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 34.1% |
| Retail | 10.6% |
| Wholesale | 9.8% |
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
Chester is served by the Chester-Joplin-Inverness Schools school district with approximately 160 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 94%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Chester
Chester has its own hospital — Liberty County Hospital (12 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 70 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Chester
Chester is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 227 miles (242 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 262 miles (277 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 219 miles (234 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 182 miles (197 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 88 miles (103 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Chester
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (0.8%)
- Strong schools (94% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Skiing at Bear Paw Ski Bowl (69 mi)
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- 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 Chester, Montana?
The typical home value is $199,376 and rent averages $662/month. The median household income is $53,583. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Chester?
January lows average 17°F with about 13" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Chester a good place to live?
Chester offers 62 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.7x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Chester?
As of early 2026, there were 6 homes for sale in Chester, down 14.3% from the prior year. The community has 387 total housing units with a 15.5% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Chester?
Chester has a 0.8% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 46.5%. About 255 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 Chester?
The Chester-Joplin-Inverness Schools school district has a graduation rate of 94%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 160 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Chester?
Chester has a local hospital, Liberty County Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 70 miles away. There are 5 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Chester?
Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 69 miles from Chester. The area receives about 13" of snow annually.