Moving to Hamilton, Montana: Everything You Need to Know

Hamilton is a town of 4,659 people in Ravalli County County, sitting at 3,573 feet in elevation. Known as "The Heart of the Bitterroot," 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. Hamilton specifically offers 403 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 9.5x, and four distinct seasons.

The typical home value in Hamilton is $504,784, with homes currently listing at a median of $703,267. Renters can expect to pay around $958 per month. The median household income is $52,917.

The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 9.5x, which is on the expensive side, reflecting strong demand.

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 100 homes for sale in Hamilton — up 11.1% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 2,849 total housing units with a 10.5% 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.

Hamilton experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 22°F. Expect about 20" of snow annually.

Hamilton has access to 403 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. For skiing, Lost Trail Powder Mountain is 40 miles from town.

Top Nearby Attractions

• Bitterroot National Forest (National Forest) — 3 miles
• Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness (Wilderness) — 10 miles
• Lolo Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 39 miles
• Lost Trail Powder Mountain (Ski Area) — 40 miles
• Blue Joint Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 40 miles
• Welcome Creek Wilderness (Wilderness) — 42 miles
• Discovery Ski Area (Ski Area) — 43 miles
• Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Route (Scenic Drive) — 44 miles

Rivers

Bitterroot River, Rock Creek, Clark Fork River, Blackfoot River, Big Hole River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.

Lakes

Nearby lakes include Tag Alder Lake, Canyon Lake, Hauf Lake, Garrard Lake, Knaack Lake.

Hot Springs

Lolo Hot Springs (39 mi), Blue Joint Hot Springs (40 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.

Hamilton has an unemployment rate of 1.9%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 60.1%.

The top industries by employment are Retail (21.3%), Education & Healthcare (15.5%), Professional Services (14.6%). Approximately 2,425 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.

Hamilton is served by the Hamilton Public Schools school district with approximately 1,800 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 85%, which is near the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,800.

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

Hamilton has its own hospital — Bitterroot Health - Daly Hospital (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 43.7 miles away.

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

Hamilton is accessible via the following airports:

• Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 177 miles (192 min drive)
• Billings Logan Intl — 325 miles (340 min drive)
• Missoula Intl — 56 miles (71 min drive)
• Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 171 miles (186 min drive)
• Great Falls Intl — 188 miles (203 min drive)

What is the cost of living in Hamilton, Montana?

The typical home value is $504,784 and rent averages $958/month. The median household income is $52,917. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.

What are winters like in Hamilton?

January lows average 22°F with about 20" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.

Is Hamilton a good place to live?

Hamilton offers 403 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 9.5x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.

How many homes are for sale in Hamilton?

As of early 2026, there were 100 homes for sale in Hamilton, up 11.1% from the prior year. The community has 2,849 total housing units with a 10.5% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.

What is the job market like in Hamilton?

Hamilton has a 1.9% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 60.1%. About 2,425 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is retail. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.

How are the schools in Hamilton?

The Hamilton Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 85%, near the state average. Approximately 1,800 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,800.

What healthcare is available in Hamilton?

Hamilton has a local hospital, Bitterroot Health - Daly Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Providence St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, 43.7 miles away. There are 5 hospitals within 60 miles.

Where is the nearest skiing to Hamilton?

Lost Trail Powder Mountain is 40 miles from Hamilton. The area receives about 20" of snow annually.