Why Move to Colstrip?
Colstrip is a small town of 2,055 people in Rosebud County County, sitting at 3,238 feet in elevation. Known as "Montana's Energy Capital," 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. Colstrip specifically offers 32 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.6x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Colstrip
The typical home value in Colstrip is $220,250. Renters can expect to pay around $632 per month. The median household income is $86,000.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 2.6x, 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.
Colstrip Housing Market
There are currently 9 homes for sale in Colstrip. The community has 980 total housing units with a 9.6% 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 Colstrip profile.
Colstrip Weather & Climate
Colstrip experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 87°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 22°F. Expect about 15" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 22°F | 0.7" | 1.6" |
| Feb | 30°F | 12°F | 1.1" | 2.7" |
| Mar | 43°F | 24°F | 0.8" | 1.7" |
| Apr | 52°F | 33°F | 2.2" | 3.1" |
| May | 65°F | 45°F | 2.1" | 0.3" |
| Jun | 78°F | 57°F | 2" | 0" |
| Jul | 87°F | 63°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Aug | 86°F | 63°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Sep | 76°F | 54°F | 1.9" | 0" |
| Oct | 56°F | 37°F | 1.8" | 2.4" |
| Nov | 46°F | 28°F | 0.7" | 1.3" |
| Dec | 38°F | 21°F | 0.7" | 1.5" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Colstrip
Colstrip has access to 32 recreation and attraction sites spanning 9 categories.
Rivers
Tongue River, Bighorn River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Castle Rock Lake, Little Hawk Lake, Lower Coal Creek Reservoir, Upper Wilbur Reservoir, Terrace Reservoir.
Explore all 32 recreation sites on the full Colstrip profile.
Jobs & Economy in Colstrip
Colstrip has an unemployment rate of 6.5%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 68.9%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (29.1%), Transportation (21.9%), Agriculture & Mining (18.9%). Approximately 1,074 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 29.1% |
| Transportation | 21.9% |
| Agriculture & Mining | 18.9% |
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
Colstrip is served by the Colstrip Public Schools school district with approximately 500 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 84%, which is below the state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Colstrip
The nearest hospital is Rosebud Health Care Center in Forsyth, 26.7 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Billings Clinic in Billings (Level 1 Trauma Center) is 90.6 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Colstrip
Colstrip is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 262 miles (277 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 111 miles (126 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 435 miles (450 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 475 miles (490 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 301 miles (316 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Colstrip
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Higher unemployment (6.5%)
- 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 Colstrip, Montana?
The typical home value is $220,250 and rent averages $632/month. The median household income is $86,000. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Colstrip?
January lows average 22°F with about 15" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Colstrip a good place to live?
Colstrip offers 32 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 2.6x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Colstrip?
As of early 2026, there were 9 homes for sale in Colstrip. The community has 980 total housing units with a 9.6% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Colstrip?
Colstrip has a 6.5% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 68.9%. About 1,074 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 Colstrip?
The Colstrip Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 84%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 500 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Colstrip?
The nearest hospital is Rosebud Health Care Center in Forsyth (26.7 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 90.6 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.