Why Move to Circle?
Circle is a small town of 560 people in McCone County County, sitting at 2,434 feet in elevation. Known as "Where the Big Sky Begins," 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. Circle specifically offers 36 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.8x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Circle
The typical home value in Circle is $226,945. Renters can expect to pay around $545 per month. The median household income is $81,250.
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.
Circle Housing Market
Circle. The community has 312 total housing units with a 19.2% 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 Circle profile.
Circle Weather & Climate
Circle experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 86°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 16°F. Expect about 12" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 16°F | 0.5" | 0.9" |
| Feb | 28°F | 9°F | 0.8" | 2.1" |
| Mar | 41°F | 21°F | 0.6" | 1.1" |
| Apr | 52°F | 31°F | 1.3" | 2.2" |
| May | 65°F | 44°F | 2" | 0.4" |
| Jun | 78°F | 56°F | 2.1" | 0" |
| Jul | 86°F | 63°F | 1" | 0" |
| Aug | 84°F | 61°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 52°F | 2.1" | 0" |
| Oct | 54°F | 36°F | 1.5" | 1.8" |
| Nov | 42°F | 25°F | 0.7" | 1.4" |
| Dec | 33°F | 16°F | 0.8" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Circle
Circle has access to 36 recreation and attraction sites spanning 7 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Lisk Creek Reservoir, Lindsay Reservoir, Hedstorm Reservoir, Teds Reservoir, Game Reservoir.
Explore all 36 recreation sites on the full Circle profile.
Jobs & Economy in Circle
Circle has an unemployment rate of 0%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 60.7%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (16.2%), Other Services (15.9%), Government (11.7%). Approximately 290 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 16.2% |
| Other Services | 15.9% |
| Government | 11.7% |
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
Circle is served by the Circle Public Schools school district with approximately 140 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Circle
Circle has its own hospital — McCone County Health Center (11 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 178.3 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Circle
Circle is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 345 miles (360 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 215 miles (230 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 481 miles (496 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 487 miles (502 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 324 miles (339 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Circle
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- 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 Circle, Montana?
The typical home value is $226,945 and rent averages $545/month. The median household income is $81,250. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Circle?
January lows average 16°F with about 12" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Circle a good place to live?
Circle offers 36 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 Circle?
Housing availability varies. The community has 312 total housing units with a 19.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Circle?
Circle has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 60.7%. About 290 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is education & healthcare. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
What healthcare is available in Circle?
Circle has a local hospital, McCone County Health Center. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 178.3 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.