Moving to Great Falls, Montana: Everything You Need to Know

Great Falls is a city of 60,000 people in Cascade County County, sitting at 3,340 feet in elevation. Known as "The Electric City," it combines the best of Montana living — stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong community — with the amenities of a mid-size city.

Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Great Falls specifically offers 104 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 5.1x, and four distinct seasons.

The typical home value in Great Falls is $327,514, with homes currently listing at a median of $375,250. Renters can expect to pay around $1,352 per month. The median household income is $63,934.

The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 5.1x, which is above average — plan your budget carefully.

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.

There are currently 284 homes for sale in Great Falls — up 31.5% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 28,333 total housing units with a 8.2% 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.

Great Falls experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 24°F. Expect about 17" of snow annually.

Great Falls has access to 104 recreation and attraction sites spanning 17 categories. For skiing, Showdown Montana is 53 miles from town.

Top Nearby Attractions

• Kings Hill Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 50 miles
• Gates of the Mountains Wilderness (Wilderness) — 52 miles
• Showdown Montana (Ski Area) — 53 miles
• Teton Pass Ski Area (Ski Area) — 61 miles
• Helena-Lewis & Clark NF (National Forest) — 65 miles
• Scapegoat Wilderness (Wilderness) — 77 miles
• Bob Marshall Wilderness (Wilderness) — 85 miles
• Great Bear Wilderness (Wilderness) — 96 miles

Rivers

Missouri River (Great Falls), Sun River, Smith River, Missouri River (Craig) are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.

Lakes

Nearby lakes include Eightmile Springs, Hankins Reservoirs, Lost Lake, Dry Creek-Krezelok Reservoir, Snyder Pond.

Great Falls has an unemployment rate of 3.2%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 60.6%.

The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (28.1%), Retail (13.2%), Tourism & Hospitality (11.2%). Approximately 28,857 residents are employed locally.

Employment by Industry

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.

Great Falls is served by the Great Falls Public Schools school district with approximately 10,000 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 79%, which is below the state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,800.

Visit Great Falls Public Schools for enrollment information and school performance data.

Great Falls also has access to higher education institutions and continuing education programs.

Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.

Great Falls has its own hospital — Benefis Health System (332 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 1.1 miles away.

Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.

Great Falls is accessible via the following airports:

• Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 143 miles (158 min drive)
• Billings Logan Intl — 210 miles (225 min drive)
• Missoula Intl — 165 miles (180 min drive)
• Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 178 miles (193 min drive)
• Great Falls Intl — 5 miles (20 min drive)

What is the cost of living in Great Falls, Montana?

The typical home value is $327,514 and rent averages $1,352/month. The median household income is $63,934. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.

What are winters like in Great Falls?

January lows average 24°F with about 17" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.

Is Great Falls a good place to live?

Great Falls offers 104 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 5.1x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.

How many homes are for sale in Great Falls?

As of early 2026, there were 284 homes for sale in Great Falls, up 31.5% from the prior year. The community has 28,333 total housing units with a 8.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.

What is the job market like in Great Falls?

Great Falls has a 3.2% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 60.6%. About 28,857 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 Great Falls?

The Great Falls Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 79%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 10,000 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,800.

What healthcare is available in Great Falls?

Great Falls has a local hospital, Benefis Health System. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 1.1 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.

Where is the nearest skiing to Great Falls?

Showdown Montana is 53 miles from Great Falls. The area receives about 17" of snow annually.