Why Move to Fort Benton?
Fort Benton is a small town of 1,449 people in Chouteau County County, sitting at 2,641 feet in elevation. Known as "The Birthplace 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. Fort Benton specifically offers 91 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 4.1x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Fort Benton
The typical home value in Fort Benton is $272,071. Renters can expect to pay around $745 per month. The median household income is $67,171.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 4.1x, 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.
Fort Benton Housing Market
There are currently 13 homes for sale in Fort Benton — up 160% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 732 total housing units with a 21.7% 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 Fort Benton profile.
Fort Benton Weather & Climate
Fort Benton experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 87°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 22°F. Expect about 15" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 22°F | 0.6" | 1.3" |
| Feb | 30°F | 12°F | 1.1" | 3" |
| Mar | 43°F | 23°F | 0.8" | 1.7" |
| Apr | 53°F | 33°F | 1.5" | 1.8" |
| May | 65°F | 44°F | 2.3" | 0.4" |
| Jun | 77°F | 55°F | 2.2" | 0" |
| Jul | 87°F | 62°F | 0.4" | 0" |
| Aug | 85°F | 61°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 75°F | 52°F | 1.3" | 0.6" |
| Oct | 56°F | 37°F | 1.5" | 1.8" |
| Nov | 44°F | 28°F | 1.1" | 1.9" |
| Dec | 36°F | 21°F | 0.9" | 2.1" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Fort Benton
Fort Benton has access to 91 recreation and attraction sites spanning 15 categories. For skiing, Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 50 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 50 miles
- Kings Hill Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 64 miles
- Showdown Montana (Ski Area) — 68 miles
- Gates of the Mountains Wilderness (Wilderness) — 87 miles
Rivers
Missouri River (Great Falls) is within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Hankins Reservoirs, Eightmile Springs, Triple Lake Reservoir, Lost Lake, Phantom Coulee Reservoir.
Explore all 91 recreation sites on the full Fort Benton profile.
Jobs & Economy in Fort Benton
Fort Benton has an unemployment rate of 0%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 52.7%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (19.8%), Tourism & Hospitality (14.5%), Agriculture & Mining (13.1%). Approximately 580 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 19.8% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 14.5% |
| 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
Fort Benton is served by the Fort Benton Public Schools school district with approximately 250 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 94%, 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 Fort Benton
Fort Benton has its own hospital — Missouri River Medical Center (10 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 35.1 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Fort Benton
Fort Benton is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 171 miles (186 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 206 miles (221 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 206 miles (221 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 203 miles (218 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 48 miles (63 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Fort Benton
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Strong schools (94% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Bear Paw Ski Bowl (50 mi)
- Has a local hospital
- Strong healthcare access
- 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 Fort Benton, Montana?
The typical home value is $272,071 and rent averages $745/month. The median household income is $67,171. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Fort Benton?
January lows average 22°F with about 15" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Fort Benton a good place to live?
Fort Benton offers 91 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 4.1x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Fort Benton?
As of early 2026, there were 13 homes for sale in Fort Benton, up 160% from the prior year. The community has 732 total housing units with a 21.7% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Fort Benton?
Fort Benton has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 52.7%. About 580 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 Fort Benton?
The Fort Benton Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 94%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 250 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Fort Benton?
Fort Benton has a local hospital, Missouri River Medical Center. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 35.1 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Fort Benton?
Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 50 miles from Fort Benton. The area receives about 15" of snow annually.