Why Move to Glasgow?
Glasgow is a town of 3,190 people in Valley County County, sitting at 2,096 feet in elevation. Known as "Montana's Great Getaway," 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. Glasgow specifically offers 113 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 1.9x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Glasgow
The typical home value in Glasgow is $148,250. Renters can expect to pay around $794 per month. The median household income is $76,985.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 1.9x, which is very affordable by national standards.
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.
Glasgow Housing Market
There are currently 14 homes for sale in Glasgow — down 26.3% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 1,453 total housing units with a 8.5% 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 Glasgow profile.
Glasgow Weather & Climate
Glasgow experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 86°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 13°F. Expect about 10" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31°F | 13°F | 0.4" | 0.8" |
| Feb | 27°F | 7°F | 0.8" | 2" |
| Mar | 40°F | 19°F | 0.6" | 1.2" |
| Apr | 53°F | 30°F | 1" | 1.4" |
| May | 67°F | 44°F | 1.7" | 0.3" |
| Jun | 79°F | 56°F | 2.4" | 0" |
| Jul | 86°F | 61°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Aug | 85°F | 61°F | 1" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 51°F | 1.7" | 0" |
| Oct | 54°F | 35°F | 1.1" | 1.1" |
| Nov | 40°F | 22°F | 0.9" | 1.8" |
| Dec | 30°F | 12°F | 0.6" | 1.5" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Glasgow
Glasgow has access to 113 recreation and attraction sites spanning 7 categories.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 30 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Mahan and Hoyt Reservoir, Aitken Reservoir, Lunch Reservoir, Seagull Reservoir, Badger Reservoir.
Hot Springs
Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs (30 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 113 recreation sites on the full Glasgow profile.
Jobs & Economy in Glasgow
Glasgow has an unemployment rate of 0.5%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 67.6%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (28.6%), Retail (16.6%), Transportation (11.7%). Approximately 1,629 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 28.6% |
| Retail | 16.6% |
| Transportation | 11.7% |
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
Glasgow is served by the Glasgow Public Schools school district with approximately 700 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 90%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,900.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Glasgow
Glasgow has its own hospital — Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital (25 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 188.4 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Glasgow
Glasgow is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 325 miles (340 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 225 miles (240 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 430 miles (445 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 421 miles (436 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 270 miles (285 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Glasgow
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 113+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (0.5%)
- Strong schools (90% 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 Glasgow, Montana?
The typical home value is $148,250 and rent averages $794/month. The median household income is $76,985. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Glasgow?
January lows average 13°F with about 10" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Glasgow a good place to live?
Glasgow offers 113 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 1.9x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Glasgow?
As of early 2026, there were 14 homes for sale in Glasgow, down 26.3% from the prior year. The community has 1,453 total housing units with a 8.5% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Glasgow?
Glasgow has a 0.5% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 67.6%. About 1,629 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 Glasgow?
The Glasgow Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 90%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 700 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,900.
What healthcare is available in Glasgow?
Glasgow has a local hospital, Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 188.4 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.