Why Move to Clyde Park?
Clyde Park is a small town of 355 people in Park County County, sitting at 4,865 feet in elevation. Known as "The Shields Valley Gem," 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. Clyde Park specifically offers 251 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 7.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Clyde Park
The typical home value in Clyde Park is $418,926. Renters can expect to pay around $1,012 per month. The median household income is $57,813.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 7.2x, which is on the expensive side, reflecting strong demand.
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.
Clyde Park Housing Market
Clyde Park. The community has 185 total housing units with a 4.9% vacancy rate — a tight market where buyers should be prepared to act quickly.
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 Clyde Park profile.
Clyde Park Weather & Climate
Clyde Park experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 80°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 14°F. Expect about 23" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34°F | 14°F | 1" | 2.6" |
| Feb | 28°F | 8°F | 1.8" | 4.8" |
| Mar | 39°F | 18°F | 1.4" | 3.4" |
| Apr | 46°F | 25°F | 2.5" | 3.5" |
| May | 59°F | 37°F | 3.4" | 1.1" |
| Jun | 69°F | 47°F | 3.4" | 0" |
| Jul | 80°F | 54°F | 2.2" | 0" |
| Aug | 79°F | 54°F | 1.8" | 0" |
| Sep | 70°F | 46°F | 2.3" | 0.2" |
| Oct | 52°F | 30°F | 2.7" | 3.1" |
| Nov | 42°F | 21°F | 1.1" | 1.9" |
| Dec | 35°F | 15°F | 1" | 2.5" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Clyde Park
Clyde Park has access to 251 recreation and attraction sites spanning 20 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 60 miles away. For skiing, Bridger Bowl is 15 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bridger Bowl (Ski Area) — 15 miles
- Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 30 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 32 miles
- Chico Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 37 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 48 miles
- Spa Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 48 miles
- Yellowstone Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 54 miles
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 57 miles
Rivers
Yellowstone River (Livingston), Boulder River, Gallatin River, Stillwater River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Campfire Lake, Cottonwood Lake, Diamond Lake, Moose Lake, Druckmiller Lake.
Hot Springs
Bozeman Hot Springs (30 mi), Chico Hot Springs (37 mi), Spa Hot Springs (48 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 251 recreation sites on the full Clyde Park profile.
Jobs & Economy in Clyde Park
Clyde Park has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 60.4%.
The top industries by employment are Construction (21.7%), Education & Healthcare (19.4%), Tourism & Hospitality (15.6%). Approximately 180 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Construction | 21.7% |
| Education & Healthcare | 19.4% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 15.6% |
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
Clyde Park is served by the Shields Valley Schools school district with approximately 150 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Clyde Park
The nearest hospital is Livingston Healthcare in Livingston, 15.7 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 25.1 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Clyde Park
Clyde Park is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 33 miles (48 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 119 miles (134 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 217 miles (232 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 288 miles (303 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 139 miles (154 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Clyde Park
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 251+ recreation sites nearby
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Bridger Bowl (15 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Limited shopping and dining options
- Distance from major metro areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Clyde Park, Montana?
The typical home value is $418,926 and rent averages $1,012/month. The median household income is $57,813. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Clyde Park?
January lows average 14°F with about 23" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Clyde Park a good place to live?
Clyde Park offers 251 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 7.2x, and four distinct seasons. It's 60 miles from Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Clyde Park?
Housing availability varies. The community has 185 total housing units with a 4.9% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Clyde Park?
Clyde Park has a 4.8% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 60.4%. About 180 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is construction. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
What healthcare is available in Clyde Park?
The nearest hospital is Livingston Healthcare in Livingston (15.7 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 25.1 miles away. There are 7 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Clyde Park?
Bridger Bowl is 15 miles from Clyde Park. The area receives about 23" of snow annually.