Why Move to Manhattan?
Manhattan is a small town of 2,288 people in Gallatin County County, sitting at 4,249 feet in elevation. Known as "The Seed Potato Capital of the World," 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. Manhattan specifically offers 241 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 9.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Manhattan
The typical home value in Manhattan is $638,352. Renters can expect to pay around $1,700 per month. The median household income is $69,671.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 9.2x, which is on the expensive side, reflecting strong demand.
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.
Manhattan Housing Market
There are currently 18 homes for sale in Manhattan — down 28% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 909 total housing units with a 1.7% vacancy rate — a tight market where buyers should be prepared to act quickly.
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 Manhattan profile.
Manhattan Weather & Climate
Manhattan experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 86°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 19°F. Expect about 16" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 19°F | 0.7" | 1.9" |
| Feb | 31°F | 11°F | 1.4" | 3.7" |
| Mar | 43°F | 21°F | 1.1" | 2.4" |
| Apr | 53°F | 29°F | 2" | 1.8" |
| May | 63°F | 39°F | 2.6" | 0.7" |
| Jun | 74°F | 48°F | 2.3" | 0" |
| Jul | 86°F | 55°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 84°F | 55°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 46°F | 1.7" | 0.1" |
| Oct | 55°F | 32°F | 1.7" | 2" |
| Nov | 42°F | 23°F | 0.9" | 1.4" |
| Dec | 36°F | 19°F | 0.8" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Manhattan
Manhattan has access to 241 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 65 miles away. For skiing, Bridger Bowl is 21 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 19 miles
- Bridger Bowl (Ski Area) — 21 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 25 miles
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 27 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 30 miles
- Potosi Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 33 miles
- Renova Hotspring (Hot Spring) — 38 miles
- Big Sky Resort (Ski Area) — 40 miles
Rivers
Gallatin River, Jefferson River, Madison River (Ennis), Yellowstone River (Livingston) are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include River Rock Lake, Pacabo Dam, Kendena Lake, Meyers Lake, North Lake.
Hot Springs
Bozeman Hot Springs (19 mi), Norris Hot Springs (27 mi), Potosi Hot Springs (33 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 241 recreation sites on the full Manhattan profile.
Jobs & Economy in Manhattan
Manhattan 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 74.6%, reflecting an active and engaged workforce.
The top industries by employment are Construction (18%), Education & Healthcare (17.6%), Professional Services (14.1%). Approximately 1,138 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Construction | 18% |
| Education & Healthcare | 17.6% |
| Professional Services | 14.1% |
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
Manhattan is served by the Manhattan Public Schools school district with approximately 500 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 95%, 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 Manhattan
The nearest hospital is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 18.7 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 18.7 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Manhattan
Manhattan is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 12 miles (27 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 161 miles (176 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 181 miles (196 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 262 miles (277 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 135 miles (150 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Manhattan
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 241+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Strong schools (95% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Bridger Bowl (21 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Manhattan, Montana?
The typical home value is $638,352 and rent averages $1,700/month. The median household income is $69,671. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Manhattan?
January lows average 19°F with about 16" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Manhattan a good place to live?
Manhattan offers 241 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 9.2x, and four distinct seasons. It's 65 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 Manhattan?
As of early 2026, there were 18 homes for sale in Manhattan, down 28% from the prior year. The community has 909 total housing units with a 1.7% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Manhattan?
Manhattan has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 74.6%. About 1,138 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is construction. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Manhattan?
The Manhattan Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 95%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 500 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Manhattan?
The nearest hospital is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (18.7 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 18.7 miles away. There are 8 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Manhattan?
Bridger Bowl is 21 miles from Manhattan. The area receives about 16" of snow annually.