Why Move to Sidney?
Sidney is a town of 6,171 people in Richland County County, sitting at 1,939 feet in elevation. Known as "The Sunrise City," 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. Sidney specifically offers 32 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 4.1x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Sidney
The typical home value in Sidney is $257,663, with homes currently listing at a median of $278,333. Renters can expect to pay around $890 per month. The median household income is $62,992.
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.
Sidney Housing Market
There are currently 24 homes for sale in Sidney — up 4.3% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 3,260 total housing units with a 20.2% 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 Sidney profile.
Sidney Weather & Climate
Sidney experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 14°F. Expect about 12" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31°F | 14°F | 0.6" | 1.2" |
| Feb | 27°F | 7°F | 0.7" | 1.7" |
| Mar | 41°F | 19°F | 0.5" | 1.1" |
| Apr | 51°F | 30°F | 1.7" | 2.9" |
| May | 66°F | 43°F | 2.8" | 0.1" |
| Jun | 79°F | 56°F | 1.8" | 0" |
| Jul | 85°F | 62°F | 1.6" | 0" |
| Aug | 84°F | 60°F | 1.1" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 52°F | 2.2" | 0" |
| Oct | 54°F | 36°F | 1.7" | 1.8" |
| Nov | 41°F | 23°F | 0.6" | 1.1" |
| Dec | 31°F | 14°F | 0.8" | 1.9" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Sidney
Sidney has access to 32 recreation and attraction sites spanning 7 categories.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Factory Lake, Gartside Reservoir, Flecher Reservoir, Burgess Reservoir, Shotgun Reservoir.
Explore all 32 recreation sites on the full Sidney profile.
Jobs & Economy in Sidney
Sidney has an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is moderate. The labor force participation rate is 72.3%, reflecting an active and engaged workforce.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (13.9%), Retail (11.4%), Tourism & Hospitality (11%). Approximately 3,468 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 13.9% |
| Retail | 11.4% |
| Tourism & Hospitality | 11% |
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
Sidney is served by the Sidney Public Schools school district with approximately 1,200 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 91%, 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 Sidney
Sidney has its own hospital — Sidney Health Center (55 beds). The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 245.2 miles away — plan accordingly for emergencies.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Sidney
Sidney is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 429 miles (444 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 295 miles (310 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 562 miles (577 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 562 miles (577 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 404 miles (419 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Sidney
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Strong schools (91% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Has a local hospital
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Limited housing inventory
- Distance from major metro areas
- Airport is a significant drive
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Sidney, Montana?
The typical home value is $257,663 and rent averages $890/month. The median household income is $62,992. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Sidney?
January lows average 14°F with about 12" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Sidney a good place to live?
Sidney offers 32 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 Sidney?
As of early 2026, there were 24 homes for sale in Sidney, up 4.3% from the prior year. The community has 3,260 total housing units with a 20.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Sidney?
Sidney has a 4.1% unemployment rate. Labor force participation is 72.3%. About 3,468 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 Sidney?
The Sidney Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 91%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 1,200 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Sidney?
Sidney has a local hospital, Sidney Health Center. The nearest major trauma center is Billings Clinic in Billings, 245.2 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.