Moving to Laurel, Montana: Everything You Need to Know

Laurel is a town of 7,215 people in Yellowstone County County, sitting at 3,307 feet in elevation. Known as "The City Between the Yellowstone and the Rimrocks," 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. Laurel specifically offers 190 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 5.5x, and four distinct seasons.

The typical home value in Laurel is $362,158, with homes currently listing at a median of $378,267. Renters can expect to pay around $1,160 per month. The median household income is $66,382.

The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 5.5x, 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.

There are currently 44 homes for sale in Laurel — up 15.8% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 3,250 total housing units with a 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.

Laurel experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 88°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 23°F. Expect about 15" of snow annually.

Laurel has access to 190 recreation and attraction sites spanning 16 categories. For skiing, Red Lodge Mountain is 43 miles from town.

Top Nearby Attractions

• Custer-Gallatin NF (National Forest) — 37 miles
• Red Lodge Mountain (Ski Area) — 43 miles
• Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness (Wilderness) — 51 miles
• Beartooth Highway (Scenic Drive) — 56 miles

Rivers

Yellowstone River (Columbus), Stillwater River, Bighorn River, Musselshell River, Boulder River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.

Lakes

Nearby lakes include South Pond, Hunter Lake, Dry Lake, Dallmann Lake, Wild Bill Lake.

Laurel has an unemployment rate of 2.1%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 69.5%.

The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (20.6%), Retail (19.4%), Tourism & Hospitality (9.7%). Approximately 3,783 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.

Laurel is served by the Laurel Public Schools school district with approximately 1,800 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 90%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,400.

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

Laurel has its own hospital — Laurel Health Center. For advanced or emergency care, Laurel Health Center in Laurel (Level 0 Trauma Center) is 0.2 miles away.

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

Laurel is accessible via the following airports:

• Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 138 miles (153 min drive)
• Billings Logan Intl — 18 miles (33 min drive)
• Missoula Intl — 322 miles (337 min drive)
• Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 380 miles (395 min drive)
• Great Falls Intl — 211 miles (226 min drive)

What is the cost of living in Laurel, Montana?

The typical home value is $362,158 and rent averages $1,160/month. The median household income is $66,382. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.

What are winters like in Laurel?

January lows average 23°F with about 15" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.

Is Laurel a good place to live?

Laurel offers 190 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 5.5x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.

How many homes are for sale in Laurel?

As of early 2026, there were 44 homes for sale in Laurel, up 15.8% from the prior year. The community has 3,250 total housing units with a 5% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.

What is the job market like in Laurel?

Laurel has a 2.1% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 69.5%. About 3,783 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 Laurel?

The Laurel Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 90%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 1,800 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $10,400.

What healthcare is available in Laurel?

Laurel has a local hospital, Laurel Health Center. The nearest major trauma center is Laurel Health Center in Laurel, 0.2 miles away. There are 8 hospitals within 60 miles.

Where is the nearest skiing to Laurel?

Red Lodge Mountain is 43 miles from Laurel. The area receives about 15" of snow annually.