Why Move to Chinook?
Chinook is a small town of 1,154 people in Blaine County County, sitting at 2,421 feet in elevation. Known as "Home of the Warm Winds," 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. Chinook specifically offers 33 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.8x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Chinook
The typical home value in Chinook is $201,583. Renters can expect to pay around $811 per month. The median household income is $71,500.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 2.8x, which is very affordable by national standards.
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.
Chinook Housing Market
There are currently 8 homes for sale in Chinook — up 60% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 728 total housing units with a 12.1% 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.
See detailed housing data and percentile rankings on the full Chinook profile.
Chinook Weather & Climate
Chinook experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 18°F. Expect about 13" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 35°F | 18°F | 0.6" | 1.2" |
| Feb | 28°F | 9°F | 0.8" | 2.2" |
| Mar | 40°F | 20°F | 0.8" | 1.7" |
| Apr | 52°F | 31°F | 1" | 1.6" |
| May | 66°F | 43°F | 1.8" | 0.6" |
| Jun | 76°F | 54°F | 2.7" | 0" |
| Jul | 85°F | 59°F | 0.7" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 59°F | 1" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 50°F | 1.5" | 0.6" |
| Oct | 55°F | 35°F | 1.1" | 0.9" |
| Nov | 41°F | 24°F | 1.2" | 2.3" |
| Dec | 33°F | 16°F | 0.7" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Chinook
Chinook has access to 33 recreation and attraction sites spanning 7 categories. For skiing, Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 43 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 43 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include North Chinook Reservoir, Richmond Reservoir, McLaren Reservoir, Fresno Reservoir, T U Reservoir.
Explore all 33 recreation sites on the full Chinook profile.
Jobs & Economy in Chinook
Chinook has an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 65.2%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (23%), Retail (16%), Construction (11.3%). Approximately 675 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 23% |
| Retail | 16% |
| Construction | 11.3% |
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
Chinook is served by the Chinook Public Schools school district with approximately 280 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 88%, which is near the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Chinook
The nearest hospital is Northern Montana Hospital in Havre, 20.6 miles away. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 120.1 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Chinook
Chinook is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 257 miles (272 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 234 miles (249 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 304 miles (319 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 277 miles (292 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 150 miles (165 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Chinook
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (2.7%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Skiing at Bear Paw Ski Bowl (43 mi)
- 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 Chinook, Montana?
The typical home value is $201,583 and rent averages $811/month. The median household income is $71,500. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Chinook?
January lows average 18°F with about 13" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Chinook a good place to live?
Chinook offers 33 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 2.8x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Chinook?
As of early 2026, there were 8 homes for sale in Chinook, up 60% from the prior year. The community has 728 total housing units with a 12.1% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Chinook?
Chinook has a 2.7% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 65.2%. About 675 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 Chinook?
The Chinook Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 88%, near the state average. Approximately 280 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Chinook?
The nearest hospital is Northern Montana Hospital in Havre (20.6 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 120.1 miles away. There are 1 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Chinook?
Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 43 miles from Chinook. The area receives about 13" of snow annually.