Why Move to Deer Lodge?
Deer Lodge is a town of 3,033 people in Deer Lodge County County, sitting at 8,497 feet in elevation. Known as "The Prison City," 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. Deer Lodge specifically offers 316 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 5.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Deer Lodge
The typical home value in Deer Lodge is $277,204, with homes currently listing at a median of $326,267. Renters can expect to pay around $781 per month. The median household income is $53,676.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 5.2x, which is above average — plan your budget carefully.
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.
Deer Lodge Housing Market
There are currently 23 homes for sale in Deer Lodge — up 15% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 1,651 total housing units with a 10.6% 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 Deer Lodge profile.
Deer Lodge Weather & Climate
Deer Lodge experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 66°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 10°F. Expect about 52" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 22°F | 10°F | 2.1" | 5.7" |
| Feb | 18°F | 5°F | 3" | 8.3" |
| Mar | 26°F | 11°F | 2.1" | 5.6" |
| Apr | 32°F | 16°F | 2.8" | 7.3" |
| May | 42°F | 26°F | 3.2" | 5.9" |
| Jun | 54°F | 34°F | 3.5" | 2.9" |
| Jul | 66°F | 44°F | 2.3" | 0" |
| Aug | 65°F | 44°F | 2.1" | 0.1" |
| Sep | 56°F | 36°F | 2" | 1.6" |
| Oct | 39°F | 22°F | 2.4" | 5.1" |
| Nov | 28°F | 13°F | 1.8" | 4.7" |
| Dec | 22°F | 10°F | 1.9" | 5.1" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Deer Lodge
Deer Lodge has access to 316 recreation and attraction sites spanning 18 categories. For skiing, Discovery Ski Area is 14 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness (Wilderness) — 3 miles
- Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Route (Scenic Drive) — 10 miles
- Discovery Ski Area (Ski Area) — 14 miles
- Fairmont Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 15 miles
- Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF (National Forest) — 20 miles
- Maverick Mountain (Ski Area) — 35 miles
- Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 36 miles
- Elkhorn Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 42 miles
Rivers
Big Hole River, Rock Creek, Bitterroot River, Jefferson River, Blackfoot River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Barker Lakes, Storm Lake, Lion Lake, Georgetown Lake, Hunters Lake.
Hot Springs
Fairmont Hot Springs (15 mi), Elkhorn Hot Springs (42 mi), Boulder Hot Springs (47 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 316 recreation sites on the full Deer Lodge profile.
Jobs & Economy in Deer Lodge
Deer Lodge has an unemployment rate of 2.3%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 49.3%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (27.9%), Government (20.8%), Tourism & Hospitality (20.4%). Approximately 1,231 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 27.9% |
| Government | 20.8% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 20.4% |
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
Deer Lodge is served by the Deer Lodge Public Schools school district with approximately 450 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 82%, 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 Deer Lodge
The nearest hospital is Community Hospital of Anaconda in Anaconda, 7.8 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 70.5 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Deer Lodge
Deer Lodge is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 114 miles (129 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 263 miles (278 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 90 miles (105 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 197 miles (212 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 152 miles (167 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Deer Lodge
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 316+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (2.3%)
- Skiing at Discovery Ski Area (14 mi)
- Strong healthcare access
- 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 Deer Lodge, Montana?
The typical home value is $277,204 and rent averages $781/month. The median household income is $53,676. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Deer Lodge?
January lows average 10°F with about 52" of annual snowfall. Winter driving skills and proper vehicle preparation are essential.
Is Deer Lodge a good place to live?
Deer Lodge offers 316 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 5.2x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Deer Lodge?
As of early 2026, there were 23 homes for sale in Deer Lodge, up 15% from the prior year. The community has 1,651 total housing units with a 10.6% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Deer Lodge?
Deer Lodge has a 2.3% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 49.3%. About 1,231 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 Deer Lodge?
The Deer Lodge Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 82%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 450 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Deer Lodge?
The nearest hospital is Community Hospital of Anaconda in Anaconda (7.8 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, 70.5 miles away. There are 5 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Deer Lodge?
Discovery Ski Area is 14 miles from Deer Lodge. The area receives about 52" of snow annually.