Why Move to Glendive?
Glendive is a town of 4,873 people in Dawson County County, sitting at 2,083 feet in elevation. Known as "The Paddlefish Capital of the World," 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. Glendive specifically offers 40 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.6x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Glendive
The typical home value in Glendive is $182,993, with homes currently listing at a median of $199,667. Renters can expect to pay around $832 per month. The median household income is $71,063.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 2.6x, 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.
Glendive Housing Market
There are currently 59 homes for sale in Glendive — up 20.4% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 2,279 total housing units with a 13.3% 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 Glendive profile.
Glendive Weather & Climate
Glendive experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 86°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 15°F. Expect about 11" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 15°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Feb | 28°F | 8°F | 0.8" | 2" |
| Mar | 41°F | 20°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Apr | 52°F | 30°F | 1.4" | 2" |
| May | 66°F | 44°F | 2.7" | 0.2" |
| Jun | 79°F | 57°F | 1.8" | 0" |
| Jul | 86°F | 63°F | 1.2" | 0" |
| Aug | 85°F | 61°F | 1.1" | 0" |
| Sep | 75°F | 52°F | 2.2" | 0" |
| Oct | 55°F | 36°F | 1.6" | 1.7" |
| Nov | 42°F | 24°F | 0.6" | 1" |
| Dec | 33°F | 15°F | 0.6" | 1.5" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Glendive
Glendive has access to 40 recreation and attraction sites spanning 9 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Crisafulli Lake, Hollecker Lake, Lindsay Reservoir, Gartside Reservoir, Factory Lake.
Explore all 40 recreation sites on the full Glendive profile.
Jobs & Economy in Glendive
Glendive has an unemployment rate of 5.2%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 56.7%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (23.4%), Transportation (16.9%), Retail (15.2%). Approximately 2,193 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 23.4% |
| Transportation | 16.9% |
| Retail | 15.2% |
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
Glendive is served by the Glendive Public Schools school district with approximately 1,000 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 89%, 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 Glendive
Glendive has its own hospital — Glendive Medical Center (25 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 202.1 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Glendive
Glendive is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 384 miles (399 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 244 miles (259 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 530 miles (545 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 541 miles (556 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 376 miles (391 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Glendive
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- 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 shopping and dining options
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Glendive, Montana?
The typical home value is $182,993 and rent averages $832/month. The median household income is $71,063. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Glendive?
January lows average 15°F with about 11" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Glendive a good place to live?
Glendive offers 40 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 2.6x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Glendive?
As of early 2026, there were 59 homes for sale in Glendive, up 20.4% from the prior year. The community has 2,279 total housing units with a 13.3% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Glendive?
Glendive has a 5.2% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 56.7%. About 2,193 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 Glendive?
The Glendive Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 89%, near the state average. Approximately 1,000 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Glendive?
Glendive has a local hospital, Glendive Medical Center. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 202.1 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.