Why Move to Malta?
Malta is a small town of 2,100 people in Phillips County County, sitting at 2,254 feet in elevation. Known as "The Dinosaur Trail Town," 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. Malta specifically offers 108 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.9x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Malta
The typical home value in Malta is $230,768. Renters can expect to pay around $693 per month. The median household income is $59,449.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.9x, 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.
Malta Housing Market
There are currently 15 homes for sale in Malta — up 25% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 931 total housing units with a 10.1% 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 Malta profile.
Malta Weather & Climate
Malta experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 86°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 15°F. Expect about 11" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 33°F | 15°F | 0.5" | 0.9" |
| Feb | 28°F | 8°F | 0.8" | 2" |
| Mar | 40°F | 19°F | 0.7" | 1.4" |
| Apr | 53°F | 30°F | 1.1" | 1.4" |
| May | 66°F | 43°F | 1.6" | 0.4" |
| Jun | 78°F | 55°F | 2.5" | 0" |
| Jul | 86°F | 61°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Aug | 84°F | 60°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 51°F | 1.4" | 0.2" |
| Oct | 55°F | 35°F | 1.2" | 1" |
| Nov | 41°F | 23°F | 0.9" | 1.9" |
| Dec | 31°F | 13°F | 0.7" | 1.6" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Malta
Malta has access to 108 recreation and attraction sites spanning 6 categories.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 37 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Nelson Reservoir, Hewitt Lake, Plum Reservoir, Adair Reservoir, Little Warm Reservoir.
Hot Springs
Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs (37 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 108 recreation sites on the full Malta profile.
Jobs & Economy in Malta
Malta 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 58.2%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (20.5%), Tourism & Hospitality (19.9%), Retail (12.9%). Approximately 883 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 20.5% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 19.9% |
| Retail | 12.9% |
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
Malta is served by the Malta Public Schools school district with approximately 400 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 89%, which is near the Montana state average of ~87%.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Malta
Malta has its own hospital — Phillips County Hospital (13 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 168.1 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Malta
Malta is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 283 miles (298 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 215 miles (230 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 367 miles (382 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 352 miles (367 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 208 miles (223 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Malta
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 108+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Affordable cost of living
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- 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 Malta, Montana?
The typical home value is $230,768 and rent averages $693/month. The median household income is $59,449. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Malta?
January lows average 15°F with about 11" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Malta a good place to live?
Malta offers 108 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.9x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Malta?
As of early 2026, there were 15 homes for sale in Malta, up 25% from the prior year. The community has 931 total housing units with a 10.1% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Malta?
Malta has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 58.2%. About 883 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 Malta?
The Malta Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 89%, near the state average. Approximately 400 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Malta?
Malta has a local hospital, Phillips County Hospital. The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 168.1 miles away. There are 2 hospitals within 60 miles.