Moving 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 does not tax Social Security benefits or most pension income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Chester specifically offers 14 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.7x, and four distinct seasons.

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 benefits or most pension income. Property taxes are moderate, based on assessed value.

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.

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.

Chester has access to 14 recreation and attraction sites spanning 3 categories.

Lakes

Nearby lakes include Tiber Reservoir, Fowler Reservoir, Miller Reservoir.

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

Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on Social Security benefits or most pension 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.

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.

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.

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)

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 14 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.7x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax can help offset some day-to-day costs.

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.