Why Move to Ryegate?
Ryegate is a small town of 273 people in Golden Valley County County, sitting at 3,668 feet in elevation. Known as "The Golden Valley Gem," 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. Ryegate specifically offers 73 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 4.1x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Ryegate
The typical home value in Ryegate is $198,646. Renters can expect to pay around $820 per month. The median household income is $48,750.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 4.1x, 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.
Ryegate Housing Market
There are currently 6 homes for sale in Ryegate. The community has 153 total housing units with a 18.3% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
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 Ryegate profile.
Ryegate Weather & Climate
Ryegate experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 86°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 22°F. Expect about 16" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 39°F | 22°F | 0.6" | 1.6" |
| Feb | 30°F | 11°F | 1.2" | 3.3" |
| Mar | 43°F | 22°F | 1" | 2.2" |
| Apr | 52°F | 30°F | 2" | 2.7" |
| May | 64°F | 42°F | 2.6" | 0.5" |
| Jun | 76°F | 52°F | 2.7" | 0" |
| Jul | 86°F | 59°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Aug | 84°F | 59°F | 0.8" | 0" |
| Sep | 75°F | 50°F | 1.6" | 0.3" |
| Oct | 55°F | 35°F | 1.8" | 2.3" |
| Nov | 45°F | 27°F | 0.7" | 1.2" |
| Dec | 37°F | 21°F | 0.6" | 1.6" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Ryegate
Ryegate has access to 73 recreation and attraction sites spanning 12 categories.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Custer-Gallatin NF (National Forest) — 56 miles
- Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness (Wilderness) — 79 miles
Rivers
Musselshell River, Yellowstone River (Columbus), Stillwater River, Boulder River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Deadmans Basin Reservoir, Dallmann Lake, Dry Lake, Glass Lindsay Lakes Lower Reservoir, Hunter Lake.
Explore all 73 recreation sites on the full Ryegate profile.
Jobs & Economy in Ryegate
Ryegate 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 43.2%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Agriculture & Mining (33.3%), Tourism & Hospitality (24.5%), Education & Healthcare (23.5%). Approximately 102 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Agriculture & Mining | 33.3% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 24.5% |
| Education & Healthcare | 23.5% |
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
Ryegate is served by the Ryegate Public Schools school district with approximately 40 students enrolled.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in Ryegate
The nearest hospital is Wheatland Memorial Hospital in Harlowton, 28.9 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Laurel Health Center in Laurel (Level 0 Trauma Center) is 49.2 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Ryegate
Ryegate is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 117 miles (132 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 58 miles (73 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 280 miles (295 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 327 miles (342 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 155 miles (170 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Ryegate
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- 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 Ryegate, Montana?
The typical home value is $198,646 and rent averages $820/month. The median household income is $48,750. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Ryegate?
January lows average 22°F with about 16" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Ryegate a good place to live?
Ryegate offers 73 nearby recreation sites, a moderate affordability ratio of 4.1x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Ryegate?
As of early 2026, there were 6 homes for sale in Ryegate. The community has 153 total housing units with a 18.3% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Ryegate?
Ryegate has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 43.2%. About 102 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is agriculture & mining. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
What healthcare is available in Ryegate?
The nearest hospital is Wheatland Memorial Hospital in Harlowton (28.9 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Laurel Health Center in Laurel, 49.2 miles away. There are 8 hospitals within 60 miles.