Why Move to Hardin?
Hardin is a town of 3,742 people in Big Horn County County, sitting at 2,910 feet in elevation. Known as "Where the Rivers Meet," 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. Hardin specifically offers 59 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.4x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Hardin
The typical home value in Hardin is $203,489, with homes currently listing at a median of $236,333. Renters can expect to pay around $726 per month. The median household income is $60,463.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.4x, 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.
Hardin Housing Market
There are currently 36 homes for sale in Hardin — up 111.8% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 1,454 total housing units with a 8.7% 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 Hardin profile.
Hardin Weather & Climate
Hardin experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 90°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 20°F. Expect about 13" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 40°F | 20°F | 0.6" | 1.5" |
| Feb | 32°F | 11°F | 1.3" | 3.2" |
| Mar | 46°F | 22°F | 1" | 1.9" |
| Apr | 55°F | 32°F | 1.9" | 1.6" |
| May | 68°F | 44°F | 1.8" | 0.1" |
| Jun | 80°F | 55°F | 2.5" | 0" |
| Jul | 90°F | 63°F | 0.7" | 0" |
| Aug | 89°F | 62°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Sep | 79°F | 52°F | 1.2" | 0" |
| Oct | 59°F | 35°F | 1.7" | 1.8" |
| Nov | 47°F | 25°F | 0.7" | 1.1" |
| Dec | 38°F | 19°F | 0.9" | 1.8" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Hardin
Hardin has access to 59 recreation and attraction sites spanning 11 categories.
Rivers
Bighorn River, Tongue River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Little Hawk Lake, Lodge Grass Storage Reservoir, Castle Rock Lake, South Pond.
Explore all 59 recreation sites on the full Hardin profile.
Jobs & Economy in Hardin
Hardin has an unemployment rate of 6.1%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 64.9%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (34.8%), Tourism & Hospitality (16.7%), Transportation (9.8%). Approximately 1,716 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 34.8% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 16.7% |
| Transportation | 9.8% |
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
Hardin is served by the Hardin Public Schools school district with approximately 900 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 72%, which is significantly below the state average.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Hardin
Hardin has its own hospital — Big Horn County Memorial Hospital (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Billings Clinic in Billings (Level 1 Trauma Center) is 43 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Hardin
Hardin is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 205 miles (220 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 54 miles (69 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 384 miles (399 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 432 miles (447 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 259 miles (274 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Hardin
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Has a local hospital
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Higher unemployment (6.1%)
- Below-average school graduation rate (72%)
- 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 Hardin, Montana?
The typical home value is $203,489 and rent averages $726/month. The median household income is $60,463. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Hardin?
January lows average 20°F with about 13" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Hardin a good place to live?
Hardin offers 59 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.4x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Hardin?
As of early 2026, there were 36 homes for sale in Hardin, up 111.8% from the prior year. The community has 1,454 total housing units with a 8.7% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Hardin?
Hardin has a 6.1% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 64.9%. About 1,716 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 Hardin?
The Hardin Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 72%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 900 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Hardin?
Hardin has a local hospital, Big Horn County Memorial Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 43 miles away. There are 5 hospitals within 60 miles.