Why Move to Joliet?
Joliet is a small town of 613 people in Carbon County County, sitting at 3,734 feet in elevation. Known as "The Carbon County 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. Joliet specifically offers 360 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 6.4x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Joliet
The typical home value in Joliet is $486,408. The median household income is $75,469.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 6.4x, 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.
Joliet Housing Market
There are currently 11 homes for sale in Joliet — up 10% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 259 total housing units with a 7.7% 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 Joliet profile.
Joliet Weather & Climate
Joliet experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 87°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 23°F. Expect about 17" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 23°F | 0.7" | 1.7" |
| Feb | 29°F | 11°F | 1.4" | 3.8" |
| Mar | 45°F | 24°F | 1.2" | 2.7" |
| Apr | 54°F | 31°F | 1.6" | 2.2" |
| May | 65°F | 43°F | 2.3" | 0.3" |
| Jun | 77°F | 52°F | 2.7" | 0" |
| Jul | 87°F | 59°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 86°F | 60°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Sep | 76°F | 51°F | 1.1" | 0.2" |
| Oct | 55°F | 36°F | 2.3" | 2.6" |
| Nov | 45°F | 28°F | 0.8" | 1.4" |
| Dec | 38°F | 23°F | 0.7" | 1.7" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Joliet
Joliet has access to 360 recreation and attraction sites spanning 18 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 90 miles away. For skiing, Red Lodge Mountain is 27 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Custer-Gallatin NF (National Forest) — 26 miles
- Red Lodge Mountain (Ski Area) — 27 miles
- Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness (Wilderness) — 36 miles
- Beartooth Highway (Scenic Drive) — 40 miles
- Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) (National Park) — 90 miles
Rivers
Yellowstone River (Columbus), Stillwater River, Boulder River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include South Pond, Hunter Lake, Wild Bill Lake, Dry Lake, Basin Creek Lake.
Explore all 360 recreation sites on the full Joliet profile.
Jobs & Economy in Joliet
Joliet 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 66.5%.
The top industries by employment are Retail (21.3%), Education & Healthcare (17.6%), Tourism & Hospitality (14.9%). Approximately 329 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Retail | 21.3% |
| Education & Healthcare | 17.6% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 14.9% |
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
Joliet is served by the Joliet Public Schools school district with approximately 200 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 93%, 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 Joliet
The nearest hospital is Laurel Health Center in Laurel, 16.1 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Laurel Health Center in Laurel (Level 0 Trauma Center) is 16.1 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Joliet
Joliet is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 129 miles (144 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 36 miles (51 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 317 miles (332 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 380 miles (395 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 215 miles (230 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Joliet
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 360+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Strong schools (93% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Red Lodge Mountain (27 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Limited housing inventory
- 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 Joliet, Montana?
The typical home value is $486,408. The median household income is $75,469. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Joliet?
January lows average 23°F with about 17" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Joliet a good place to live?
Joliet offers 360 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 6.4x, and four distinct seasons. It's 90 miles from Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Joliet?
As of early 2026, there were 11 homes for sale in Joliet, up 10% from the prior year. The community has 259 total housing units with a 7.7% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Joliet?
Joliet has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 66.5%. About 329 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 Joliet?
The Joliet Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 93%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 200 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Joliet?
The nearest hospital is Laurel Health Center in Laurel (16.1 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Laurel Health Center in Laurel, 16.1 miles away. There are 6 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Joliet?
Red Lodge Mountain is 27 miles from Joliet. The area receives about 17" of snow annually.