Why Move to Havre?
Havre is a town of 9,362 people in Hill County County, sitting at 2,493 feet in elevation. Known as "The Border City," it combines the best of Montana living — stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong community — with small-city conveniences.
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on retirement income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Havre specifically offers 37 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.8x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Havre
The typical home value in Havre is $223,148, with homes currently listing at a median of $241,000. Renters can expect to pay around $802 per month. The median household income is $58,000.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.8x, 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.
Havre Housing Market
There are currently 54 homes for sale in Havre — down 19.4% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 4,230 total housing units with a 10.6% 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 Havre profile.
Havre Weather & Climate
Havre experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 84°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 19°F. Expect about 14" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34°F | 19°F | 0.7" | 1.5" |
| Feb | 28°F | 10°F | 0.8" | 2.1" |
| Mar | 40°F | 21°F | 0.8" | 1.7" |
| Apr | 52°F | 32°F | 1.1" | 1.8" |
| May | 65°F | 44°F | 2" | 0.7" |
| Jun | 75°F | 55°F | 2.7" | 0" |
| Jul | 84°F | 60°F | 0.7" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 60°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 73°F | 51°F | 1.5" | 0.8" |
| Oct | 54°F | 36°F | 1.2" | 1.1" |
| Nov | 41°F | 26°F | 1.3" | 2.4" |
| Dec | 33°F | 17°F | 0.8" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Havre
Havre has access to 37 recreation and attraction sites spanning 7 categories. For skiing, Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 36 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 36 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Fresno Reservoir, McLaren Reservoir, North Chinook Reservoir, Creedman Reservoir, Miller Reservoir.
Explore all 37 recreation sites on the full Havre profile.
Jobs & Economy in Havre
Havre has an unemployment rate of 2.9%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 67.6%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (28.4%), Tourism & Hospitality (10.2%), Retail (9.7%). Approximately 4,617 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 28.4% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 10.2% |
| Retail | 9.7% |
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
Havre is served by the Havre Public Schools school district with approximately 1,600 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 84%, which is below the state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,400.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Havre
Havre has its own hospital — Northern Montana Hospital (49 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 102.9 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Havre
Havre is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 245 miles (260 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 236 miles (251 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 281 miles (296 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 253 miles (268 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 129 miles (144 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Havre
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (2.9%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Skiing at Bear Paw Ski Bowl (36 mi)
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Havre, Montana?
The typical home value is $223,148 and rent averages $802/month. The median household income is $58,000. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Havre?
January lows average 19°F with about 14" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Havre a good place to live?
Havre offers 37 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.8x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Havre?
As of early 2026, there were 54 homes for sale in Havre, down 19.4% from the prior year. The community has 4,230 total housing units with a 10.6% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Havre?
Havre has a 2.9% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 67.6%. About 4,617 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 Havre?
The Havre Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 84%, below the state average of ~87%. Approximately 1,600 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,400.
What healthcare is available in Havre?
Havre has a local hospital, Northern Montana Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 102.9 miles away. There are 2 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Havre?
Bear Paw Ski Bowl is 36 miles from Havre. The area receives about 14" of snow annually.