Why Move to Ennis?
Ennis is a small town of 917 people in Madison County County, sitting at 4,951 feet in elevation. Known as "The Trout Capital of Montana," 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. Ennis specifically offers 233 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 10.1x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Ennis
The typical home value in Ennis is $614,545, with homes currently listing at a median of $701,617. Renters can expect to pay around $805 per month. The median household income is $60,880.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 10.1x, 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.
Ennis Housing Market
There are currently 41 homes for sale in Ennis — up 41.4% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 403 total housing units with a 25.8% 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 Ennis profile.
Ennis Weather & Climate
Ennis experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 81°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 14°F. Expect about 27" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32°F | 14°F | 1.1" | 3" |
| Feb | 29°F | 11°F | 1.6" | 4.5" |
| Mar | 38°F | 19°F | 1.7" | 4.4" |
| Apr | 47°F | 25°F | 2.3" | 4.1" |
| May | 59°F | 37°F | 2.2" | 1.8" |
| Jun | 70°F | 47°F | 2.1" | 0.3" |
| Jul | 81°F | 55°F | 0.4" | 0" |
| Aug | 79°F | 55°F | 1.1" | 0" |
| Sep | 71°F | 46°F | 1.3" | 0.3" |
| Oct | 53°F | 31°F | 2.1" | 2.9" |
| Nov | 41°F | 22°F | 1.2" | 2.6" |
| Dec | 33°F | 16°F | 1.2" | 3.1" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Ennis
Ennis has access to 233 recreation and attraction sites spanning 20 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 55 miles away. For skiing, Big Sky Resort is 17 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 15 miles
- Big Sky Resort (Ski Area) — 17 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 19 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Madison Range) (Wilderness) — 19 miles
- Potosi Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 32 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 36 miles
- Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 36 miles
- Renova Hotspring (Hot Spring) — 36 miles
Rivers
Madison River (Ennis), Gallatin River, Jefferson River, Beaverhead River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Ennis Lake, Chilled Lakes, Upper Branham Lake, No Man Lake, Bismark Reservoir.
Hot Springs
Norris Hot Springs (15 mi), Potosi Hot Springs (32 mi), Bozeman Hot Springs (36 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 233 recreation sites on the full Ennis profile.
Jobs & Economy in Ennis
Ennis has an unemployment rate of 1.2%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 65.5%.
The top industries by employment are Tourism & Hospitality (28.9%), Retail (18.9%), Construction (18%). Approximately 339 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Tourism & Hospitality | 28.9% |
| Retail | 18.9% |
| Construction | 18% |
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
Ennis is served by the Ennis Public Schools school district with approximately 350 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 96%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $15,200.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Ennis
Ennis has its own hospital — Madison Valley Hospital (10 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 40.8 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Ennis
Ennis is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 49 miles (64 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 189 miles (204 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 188 miles (203 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 284 miles (299 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 178 miles (193 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Ennis
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 233+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (1.2%)
- Strong schools (96% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Big Sky Resort (17 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- Has a local hospital
- Strong healthcare access
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Ennis, Montana?
The typical home value is $614,545 and rent averages $805/month. The median household income is $60,880. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Ennis?
January lows average 14°F with about 27" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Ennis a good place to live?
Ennis offers 233 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 10.1x, and four distinct seasons. It's 55 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 Ennis?
As of early 2026, there were 41 homes for sale in Ennis, up 41.4% from the prior year. The community has 403 total housing units with a 25.8% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Ennis?
Ennis has a 1.2% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 65.5%. About 339 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is tourism & hospitality. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Ennis?
The Ennis Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 96%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 350 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $15,200.
What healthcare is available in Ennis?
Ennis has a local hospital, Madison Valley Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 40.8 miles away. There are 6 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Ennis?
Big Sky Resort is 17 miles from Ennis. The area receives about 27" of snow annually.