Why Move to Harlowton?
Harlowton is a small town of 1,058 people in Wheatland County County, sitting at 4,170 feet in elevation. Known as "The Wheatland Gateway," 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. Harlowton specifically offers 82 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 2.6x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Harlowton
The typical home value in Harlowton is $141,601. Renters can expect to pay around $766 per month. The median household income is $53,750.
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.
Harlowton Housing Market
Harlowton. The community has 565 total housing units with a 24.4% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
Inventory data from Zillow Research (recent). 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 Harlowton profile.
Harlowton Weather & Climate
Harlowton experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 83°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 21°F. Expect about 16" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 36°F | 21°F | 0.7" | 1.8" |
| Feb | 28°F | 10°F | 1.2" | 3.3" |
| Mar | 41°F | 20°F | 0.9" | 2.1" |
| Apr | 50°F | 27°F | 2.2" | 3" |
| May | 61°F | 39°F | 2.8" | 0.7" |
| Jun | 73°F | 49°F | 2.8" | 0" |
| Jul | 83°F | 56°F | 1.2" | 0" |
| Aug | 81°F | 56°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 72°F | 47°F | 1.9" | 0.3" |
| Oct | 53°F | 33°F | 1.8" | 2.1" |
| Nov | 43°F | 26°F | 0.8" | 1.2" |
| Dec | 36°F | 20°F | 0.6" | 1.7" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Harlowton
Harlowton has access to 82 recreation and attraction sites spanning 15 categories. For skiing, Showdown Montana is 50 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Showdown Montana (Ski Area) — 50 miles
- Spa Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 51 miles
- Kings Hill Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 53 miles
- Bridger Bowl (Ski Area) — 66 miles
- Custer-Gallatin NF (National Forest) — 67 miles
- Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness (Wilderness) — 88 miles
- Gates of the Mountains Wilderness (Wilderness) — 100 miles
Rivers
Boulder River, Stillwater River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Deadmans Basin Reservoir, Glass Lindsay Lakes Lower Reservoir, Forest Lake, Voldseth Reservoir, Cave Lake.
Hot Springs
Spa Hot Springs (51 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 82 recreation sites on the full Harlowton profile.
Jobs & Economy in Harlowton
Harlowton has an unemployment rate of 0%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 44.4%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (24.5%), Retail (17.5%), Construction (16.2%). Approximately 371 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 24.5% |
| Retail | 17.5% |
| Construction | 16.2% |
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
Harlowton is served by the Harlowton Public Schools school district with approximately 160 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 91%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Harlowton
Harlowton has its own hospital — Wheatland Memorial Hospital (25 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Laurel Health Center in Laurel (Level 0 Trauma Center) is 73.4 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Harlowton
Harlowton is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 93 miles (108 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 91 miles (106 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 245 miles (260 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 293 miles (308 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 123 miles (138 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Harlowton
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Strong schools (91% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Skiing at Showdown Montana (50 mi)
- 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 Harlowton, Montana?
The typical home value is $141,601 and rent averages $766/month. The median household income is $53,750. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Harlowton?
January lows average 21°F with about 16" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Harlowton a good place to live?
Harlowton offers 82 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 Harlowton?
Housing availability varies. The community has 565 total housing units with a 24.4% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Harlowton?
Harlowton has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 44.4%. About 371 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 Harlowton?
The Harlowton Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 91%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 160 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Harlowton?
Harlowton has a local hospital, Wheatland Memorial Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Laurel Health Center in Laurel, 73.4 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Harlowton?
Showdown Montana is 50 miles from Harlowton. The area receives about 16" of snow annually.