Why Move to Fairview?
Fairview is a small town of 832 people in Richland County County, sitting at 1,916 feet in elevation. Known as "Where Montana Meets North Dakota," 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. Fairview specifically offers 23 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.1x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Fairview
The typical home value in Fairview is $253,703. Renters can expect to pay around $689 per month. The median household income is $80,903.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.1x, which is moderate and comparable to the national average.
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.
Fairview Housing Market
Fairview. The community has 443 total housing units with a 23.5% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
Inventory data from Zillow Research (recent). 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 Fairview profile.
Fairview Weather & Climate
Fairview experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 84°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 13°F. Expect about 12" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 30°F | 13°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Feb | 26°F | 6°F | 0.6" | 1.5" |
| Mar | 40°F | 19°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Apr | 51°F | 29°F | 1.7" | 3" |
| May | 66°F | 43°F | 2.6" | 0.1" |
| Jun | 79°F | 56°F | 2" | 0" |
| Jul | 84°F | 62°F | 1.6" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 60°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 52°F | 2.1" | 0" |
| Oct | 53°F | 36°F | 1.5" | 1.8" |
| Nov | 40°F | 24°F | 0.6" | 1" |
| Dec | 30°F | 13°F | 0.8" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Fairview
Fairview has access to 23 recreation and attraction sites spanning 5 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Flecher Reservoir, Factory Lake, Burgess Reservoir, Gartside Reservoir, Shotgun Reservoir.
Explore all 23 recreation sites on the full Fairview profile.
Jobs & Economy in Fairview
Fairview has an unemployment rate of 10.7%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 63.8%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (25.8%), Transportation (21.2%), Agriculture & Mining (13.1%). Approximately 434 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 25.8% |
| Transportation | 21.2% |
| Agriculture & Mining | 13.1% |
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
Fairview is served by the Fairview Public Schools school district with approximately 200 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Fairview
The nearest hospital is Sidney Health Center in Sidney, 11 miles away. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 254.7 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Fairview
Fairview is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 438 miles (453 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 306 miles (321 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 569 miles (584 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 566 miles (581 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 410 miles (425 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Fairview
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Higher unemployment (10.7%)
- 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 Fairview, Montana?
The typical home value is $253,703 and rent averages $689/month. The median household income is $80,903. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Fairview?
January lows average 13°F with about 12" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Fairview a good place to live?
Fairview offers 23 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.1x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Fairview?
Housing availability varies. The community has 443 total housing units with a 23.5% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Fairview?
Fairview has a 10.7% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 63.8%. About 434 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 Fairview?
The nearest hospital is Sidney Health Center in Sidney (11 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 254.7 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.