Why Move to Miles City?
Miles City is a town of 8,412 people in Custer County County, sitting at 2,365 feet in elevation. Known as "The Cow Capital 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. Miles City specifically offers 17 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 3.8x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Miles City
The typical home value in Miles City is $229,084, with homes currently listing at a median of $266,667. Renters can expect to pay around $750 per month. The median household income is $60,732.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 3.8x, 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.
Miles City Housing Market
There are currently 53 homes for sale in Miles City — down 1.9% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 4,124 total housing units with a 10.6% 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 Miles City profile.
Miles City Weather & Climate
Miles City experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 89°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 18°F. Expect about 10" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 36°F | 18°F | 0.4" | 0.8" |
| Feb | 30°F | 10°F | 0.9" | 2.1" |
| Mar | 44°F | 22°F | 0.5" | 1" |
| Apr | 54°F | 32°F | 1.7" | 1.8" |
| May | 67°F | 45°F | 2.1" | 0" |
| Jun | 81°F | 57°F | 2" | 0" |
| Jul | 89°F | 64°F | 0.7" | 0" |
| Aug | 87°F | 63°F | 0.9" | 0" |
| Sep | 77°F | 53°F | 1.9" | 0" |
| Oct | 56°F | 36°F | 1.7" | 1.2" |
| Nov | 45°F | 25°F | 0.6" | 1.1" |
| Dec | 35°F | 17°F | 0.8" | 1.8" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Miles City
Miles City has access to 17 recreation and attraction sites spanning 6 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Kreger Reservoir, Lisk Creek Reservoir, Castle Rock Lake, Upper Wilbur Reservoir, Hedstorm Reservoir.
Explore all 17 recreation sites on the full Miles City profile.
Jobs & Economy in Miles City
Miles City has an unemployment rate of 3.2%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 66.9%.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (28.2%), Retail (21.5%), Tourism & Hospitality (7.4%). Approximately 4,554 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 28.2% |
| Retail | 21.5% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 7.4% |
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
Miles City is served by the Miles City Public Schools school district with approximately 1,400 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 87%, 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 Miles City
Miles City has its own hospital — Holy Rosary Healthcare (90 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 134.2 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Miles City
Miles City is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 309 miles (324 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 163 miles (178 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 471 miles (486 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 498 miles (513 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 325 miles (340 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Miles City
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Montana outdoor lifestyle
- Low unemployment (3.2%)
- 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
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Miles City, Montana?
The typical home value is $229,084 and rent averages $750/month. The median household income is $60,732. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Miles City?
January lows average 18°F with about 10" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Miles City a good place to live?
Miles City offers 17 nearby recreation sites, a favorable affordability ratio of 3.8x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Miles City?
As of early 2026, there were 53 homes for sale in Miles City, down 1.9% from the prior year. The community has 4,124 total housing units with a 10.6% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Miles City?
Miles City has a 3.2% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 66.9%. About 4,554 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 Miles City?
The Miles City Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 87%, near the state average. Approximately 1,400 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Miles City?
Miles City has a local hospital, Holy Rosary Healthcare. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 134.2 miles away. There are 2 hospitals within 60 miles.