Why Move to Lewistown?
Lewistown is a town of 5,952 people in Fergus County County, sitting at 3,934 feet in elevation. Known as "The Geographic Center of Montana," 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. Lewistown specifically offers 63 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 6.1x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Lewistown
The typical home value in Lewistown is $271,126, with homes currently listing at a median of $348,333. Renters can expect to pay around $896 per month. The median household income is $44,195.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 6.1x, 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.
Lewistown Housing Market
There are currently 59 homes for sale in Lewistown — up 31.1% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 3,047 total housing units with a 7.4% 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 Lewistown profile.
Lewistown Weather & Climate
Lewistown experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 82°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 19°F. Expect about 23" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 19°F | 1" | 2.5" |
| Feb | 28°F | 9°F | 1.6" | 4.4" |
| Mar | 41°F | 21°F | 0.8" | 1.8" |
| Apr | 49°F | 29°F | 2.5" | 4" |
| May | 61°F | 40°F | 2.7" | 1.3" |
| Jun | 72°F | 50°F | 2.6" | 0" |
| Jul | 82°F | 57°F | 0.6" | 0" |
| Aug | 81°F | 57°F | 1" | 0" |
| Sep | 72°F | 49°F | 1.7" | 0.4" |
| Oct | 53°F | 33°F | 1.9" | 2.7" |
| Nov | 43°F | 24°F | 1.3" | 2.8" |
| Dec | 36°F | 18°F | 1.2" | 3" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Lewistown
Lewistown has access to 63 recreation and attraction sites spanning 12 categories. For skiing, Showdown Montana is 63 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Showdown Montana (Ski Area) — 63 miles
- Kings Hill Scenic Byway (Scenic Drive) — 63 miles
- Bear Paw Ski Bowl (Ski Area) — 67 miles
Rivers
Musselshell River is within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Spring Creek Trout Hatchery, Upper Carters Pond, Taylor Lake, Stafford Reservoir, War Horse Lake.
Explore all 63 recreation sites on the full Lewistown profile.
Jobs & Economy in Lewistown
Lewistown has an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 57.3%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (29.6%), Retail (14.9%), Transportation (9.3%). Approximately 2,594 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 29.6% |
| Retail | 14.9% |
| Transportation | 9.3% |
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
Lewistown is served by the Lewistown Public Schools school district with approximately 1,200 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 92%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,800.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Lewistown
Lewistown has its own hospital — Central Montana Medical Center (90 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 92.4 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Lewistown
Lewistown is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 145 miles (160 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 116 miles (131 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 264 miles (279 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 289 miles (304 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 115 miles (130 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Lewistown
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Strong schools (92% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Showdown Montana (63 mi)
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Higher unemployment (6.8%)
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Lewistown, Montana?
The typical home value is $271,126 and rent averages $896/month. The median household income is $44,195. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Lewistown?
January lows average 19°F with about 23" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Lewistown a good place to live?
Lewistown offers 63 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 6.1x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Lewistown?
As of early 2026, there were 59 homes for sale in Lewistown, up 31.1% from the prior year. The community has 3,047 total housing units with a 7.4% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Lewistown?
Lewistown has a 6.8% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 57.3%. About 2,594 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 Lewistown?
The Lewistown Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 92%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 1,200 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $11,800.
What healthcare is available in Lewistown?
Lewistown has a local hospital, Central Montana Medical Center. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 92.4 miles away. There are 3 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Lewistown?
Showdown Montana is 63 miles from Lewistown. The area receives about 23" of snow annually.