Why Move to Culbertson?
Culbertson is a small town of 706 people in Roosevelt County County, sitting at 1,932 feet in elevation. Known as "The Trailhead of the Hi-Line," 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. Culbertson specifically offers 28 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 1.7x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Culbertson
The typical home value in Culbertson is $172,533. Renters can expect to pay around $1,044 per month. The median household income is $103,750.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 1.7x, 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.
Culbertson Housing Market
There are currently 6 homes for sale in Culbertson. The community has 301 total housing units with a 28.2% 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.
See detailed housing data and percentile rankings on the full Culbertson profile.
Culbertson Weather & Climate
Culbertson experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 84°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 12°F. Expect about 12" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°F | 12°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Feb | 25°F | 5°F | 0.6" | 1.6" |
| Mar | 39°F | 18°F | 0.5" | 1" |
| Apr | 50°F | 29°F | 1.4" | 2.6" |
| May | 66°F | 43°F | 2.3" | 0.3" |
| Jun | 78°F | 56°F | 2.4" | 0" |
| Jul | 84°F | 61°F | 1.4" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 60°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 73°F | 51°F | 2" | 0" |
| Oct | 53°F | 35°F | 1.4" | 1.5" |
| Nov | 39°F | 23°F | 0.7" | 1.4" |
| Dec | 29°F | 12°F | 0.8" | 2" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Culbertson
Culbertson has access to 28 recreation and attraction sites spanning 5 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Shotgun Reservoir, Homestead Lake, Burgess Reservoir, McIlwain Lake, Flecher Reservoir.
Explore all 28 recreation sites on the full Culbertson profile.
Jobs & Economy in Culbertson
Culbertson has an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 70.3%, reflecting an active and engaged workforce.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (51%), Retail (13.2%), Transportation (9.4%). Approximately 310 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 51% |
| Retail | 13.2% |
| Transportation | 9.4% |
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
Culbertson is served by the Culbertson Public Schools school district with approximately 180 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Culbertson
Culbertson has its own hospital — Roosevelt Memorial Medical Center (13 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 248.8 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Culbertson
Culbertson is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 424 miles (439 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 299 miles (314 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 545 miles (560 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 538 miles (553 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 385 miles (400 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Culbertson
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- 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 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 Culbertson, Montana?
The typical home value is $172,533 and rent averages $1,044/month. The median household income is $103,750. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Culbertson?
January lows average 12°F with about 12" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Culbertson a good place to live?
Culbertson offers 28 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 1.7x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Culbertson?
As of early 2026, there were 6 homes for sale in Culbertson. The community has 301 total housing units with a 28.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Culbertson?
Culbertson has a 4.3% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 70.3%. About 310 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 Culbertson?
Culbertson has a local hospital, Roosevelt Memorial Medical Center. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 248.8 miles away. There are 5 hospitals within 60 miles.