Why Move to Eureka?
Eureka is a small town of 1,380 people in Lincoln County County, sitting at 2,589 feet in elevation. Known as "Montana's Last Best Frontier," 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. Eureka specifically offers 177 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 11.5x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Eureka
The typical home value in Eureka is $503,617, with homes currently listing at a median of $647,997. Renters can expect to pay around $1,012 per month. The median household income is $43,750.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 11.5x, 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.
Eureka Housing Market
There are currently 68 homes for sale in Eureka — up 6.3% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 694 total housing units with a 9.9% 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 Eureka profile.
Eureka Weather & Climate
Eureka experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 82°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 21°F. Expect about 14" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 35°F | 21°F | 1.5" | 2.4" |
| Feb | 33°F | 15°F | 1.3" | 2.8" |
| Mar | 45°F | 23°F | 1.1" | 1.7" |
| Apr | 53°F | 30°F | 1.4" | 0.8" |
| May | 64°F | 41°F | 2.3" | 0.2" |
| Jun | 72°F | 48°F | 2.1" | 0" |
| Jul | 82°F | 54°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 80°F | 55°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Sep | 70°F | 48°F | 1.5" | 0.1" |
| Oct | 54°F | 36°F | 1.7" | 0.9" |
| Nov | 41°F | 27°F | 1.9" | 1.7" |
| Dec | 34°F | 22°F | 2" | 3.2" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Eureka
Eureka has access to 177 recreation and attraction sites spanning 17 categories. Glacier National Park (West Glacier) is just 56 miles away. For skiing, Turner Mountain is 41 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 18 miles
- Turner Mountain (Ski Area) — 41 miles
- Teepee (Ski Area) — 41 miles
- The Back 9 (Ski Area) — 41 miles
- Whitefish Mountain Resort (Ski Area) — 42 miles
- Lee's Way (Ski Area) — 42 miles
- Snow Making Ponds (Ski Area) — 42 miles
- Knox Landing (Ski Area) — 42 miles
Rivers
Kootenai River is within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Bass Lake, Lake Koocanusa, Jumbo Lake, Blue Lake, Okaga Lake.
Explore all 177 recreation sites on the full Eureka profile.
Jobs & Economy in Eureka
Eureka has an unemployment rate of 8.1%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 64.5%.
The top industries by employment are Transportation (16.4%), Education & Healthcare (16.2%), Retail (14.6%). Approximately 864 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Transportation | 16.4% |
| Education & Healthcare | 16.2% |
| Retail | 14.6% |
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
Eureka is served by the Lincoln County Schools - Eureka school district with approximately 500 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 87%, which is near the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Eureka
The nearest hospital is Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby, 41 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 57.6 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Eureka
Eureka is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 338 miles (353 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 445 miles (460 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 171 miles (186 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 64 miles (79 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 234 miles (249 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Eureka
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 177+ recreation sites nearby
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Turner Mountain (41 mi)
- Near Glacier National Park (West Glacier)
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Higher unemployment (8.1%)
- 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 Eureka, Montana?
The typical home value is $503,617 and rent averages $1,012/month. The median household income is $43,750. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Eureka?
January lows average 21°F with about 14" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Eureka a good place to live?
Eureka offers 177 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 11.5x, and four distinct seasons. It's 56 miles from Glacier National Park (West Glacier). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Eureka?
As of early 2026, there were 68 homes for sale in Eureka, up 6.3% from the prior year. The community has 694 total housing units with a 9.9% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Eureka?
Eureka has a 8.1% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 64.5%. About 864 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is transportation. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Eureka?
The Lincoln County Schools - Eureka school district has a graduation rate of 87%, near the state average. Approximately 500 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Eureka?
The nearest hospital is Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby (41 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell, 57.6 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Eureka?
Turner Mountain is 41 miles from Eureka. The area receives about 14" of snow annually.