Why Move to Dillon?
Dillon is a town of 3,880 people in Beaverhead County County, sitting at 5,095 feet in elevation. Known as "Montana's Hometown," 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. Dillon specifically offers 148 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 7.3x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Dillon
The typical home value in Dillon is $374,266, with homes currently listing at a median of $467,000. Renters can expect to pay around $821 per month. The median household income is $51,458.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 7.3x, 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.
Dillon Housing Market
There are currently 33 homes for sale in Dillon — down 23.3% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 1,836 total housing units with a 10.3% 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 Dillon profile.
Dillon Weather & Climate
Dillon experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 86°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 15°F. Expect about 13" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 15°F | 0.5" | 1.2" |
| Feb | 31°F | 12°F | 0.9" | 2.4" |
| Mar | 41°F | 20°F | 0.8" | 1.9" |
| Apr | 51°F | 27°F | 1.4" | 2.1" |
| May | 63°F | 38°F | 1.8" | 1.1" |
| Jun | 74°F | 47°F | 1.6" | 0" |
| Jul | 86°F | 55°F | 0.2" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 54°F | 0.6" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 46°F | 1" | 0.2" |
| Oct | 56°F | 33°F | 0.9" | 1.3" |
| Nov | 43°F | 23°F | 0.6" | 1.1" |
| Dec | 34°F | 18°F | 0.5" | 1.3" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Dillon
Dillon has access to 148 recreation and attraction sites spanning 17 categories. Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance) is just 85 miles away. For skiing, Maverick Mountain is 38 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Biltmore Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 19 miles
- Elkhorn Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 30 miles
- Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 32 miles
- Maverick Mountain (Ski Area) — 38 miles
- Big Sheep Creek Backcountry Byway (Scenic Drive) — 38 miles
- Jackson Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 40 miles
- Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF (National Forest) — 44 miles
- Renova Hotspring (Hot Spring) — 47 miles
Rivers
Beaverhead River, Big Hole River, Madison River (Ennis), Jefferson River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Tash Pond, Bond Lake, Estler Lake, Deerhead Lake, Boot Lake.
Hot Springs
Biltmore Hot Springs (19 mi), Elkhorn Hot Springs (30 mi), Jackson Hot Springs (40 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 148 recreation sites on the full Dillon profile.
Jobs & Economy in Dillon
Dillon has an unemployment rate of 4.2%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 61.2%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (30.8%), Tourism & Hospitality (20.3%), Manufacturing (7.2%). Approximately 1,955 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 30.8% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 20.3% |
| Manufacturing | 7.2% |
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
Dillon is served by the Dillon Public Schools school district with approximately 650 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 90%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $12,200.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Dillon
Dillon has its own hospital — Barrett Hospital & HealthCare (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 84 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Dillon
Dillon is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 98 miles (113 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 243 miles (258 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 164 miles (179 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 273 miles (288 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 201 miles (216 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Dillon
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 148+ recreation sites nearby
- Strong schools (90% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Maverick Mountain (38 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance)
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- 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 Dillon, Montana?
The typical home value is $374,266 and rent averages $821/month. The median household income is $51,458. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Dillon?
January lows average 15°F with about 13" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Dillon a good place to live?
Dillon offers 148 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 7.3x, and four distinct seasons. It's 85 miles from Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Dillon?
As of early 2026, there were 33 homes for sale in Dillon, down 23.3% from the prior year. The community has 1,836 total housing units with a 10.3% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Dillon?
Dillon has a 4.2% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 61.2%. About 1,955 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 Dillon?
The Dillon Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 90%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 650 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $12,200.
What healthcare is available in Dillon?
Dillon has a local hospital, Barrett Hospital & HealthCare. The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 84 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Dillon?
Maverick Mountain is 38 miles from Dillon. The area receives about 13" of snow annually.