Why Move to Forsyth?
Forsyth is a small town of 1,630 people in Rosebud County County, sitting at 2,526 feet in elevation. Known as "The Yellowstone 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. Forsyth specifically offers 24 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.6x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Forsyth
The typical home value in Forsyth is $208,714. Renters can expect to pay around $743 per month. The median household income is $58,375.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.6x, 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.
Forsyth Housing Market
There are currently 8 homes for sale in Forsyth — up 14.3% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 817 total housing units with a 15.7% 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 Forsyth profile.
Forsyth Weather & Climate
Forsyth experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 90°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 20°F. Expect about 11" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 20°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Feb | 30°F | 11°F | 0.9" | 2.2" |
| Mar | 45°F | 23°F | 0.7" | 1.1" |
| Apr | 54°F | 33°F | 2" | 2.5" |
| May | 67°F | 46°F | 1.8" | 0.2" |
| Jun | 81°F | 57°F | 2.2" | 0" |
| Jul | 90°F | 65°F | 0.7" | 0" |
| Aug | 88°F | 63°F | 1.1" | 0" |
| Sep | 78°F | 54°F | 2" | 0" |
| Oct | 57°F | 37°F | 1.7" | 1.6" |
| Nov | 46°F | 27°F | 0.6" | 1.1" |
| Dec | 36°F | 19°F | 0.6" | 1.3" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Forsyth
Forsyth has access to 24 recreation and attraction sites spanning 7 categories.
Rivers
Tongue River, Bighorn River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Castle Rock Lake, Black Sea Reservoir, Kreger Reservoir, Little Hawk Lake, Lower Coal Creek Reservoir.
Explore all 24 recreation sites on the full Forsyth profile.
Jobs & Economy in Forsyth
Forsyth has an unemployment rate of 2.4%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 57.1%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (19.3%), Transportation (15.5%), Tourism & Hospitality (12.4%). Approximately 724 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 19.3% |
| Transportation | 15.5% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 12.4% |
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
Forsyth is served by the Forsyth Public Schools school district with approximately 350 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 92%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Forsyth
Forsyth has its own hospital — Rosebud Health Care Center (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Billings Clinic in Billings (Level 1 Trauma Center) is 93.6 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Forsyth
Forsyth is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 261 miles (276 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 114 miles (129 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 426 miles (441 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 458 miles (473 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 284 miles (299 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Forsyth
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Low unemployment (2.4%)
- Strong schools (92% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Has a local hospital
- 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 Forsyth, Montana?
The typical home value is $208,714 and rent averages $743/month. The median household income is $58,375. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Forsyth?
January lows average 20°F with about 11" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Forsyth a good place to live?
Forsyth offers 24 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.6x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Forsyth?
As of early 2026, there were 8 homes for sale in Forsyth, up 14.3% from the prior year. The community has 817 total housing units with a 15.7% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Forsyth?
Forsyth has a 2.4% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 57.1%. About 724 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 Forsyth?
The Forsyth Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 92%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 350 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Forsyth?
Forsyth has a local hospital, Rosebud Health Care Center. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 93.6 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.