Why Move to Three Forks?
Three Forks is a small town of 1,989 people in Gallatin County County, sitting at 4,075 feet in elevation. Known as "The Headwaters City," 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 does not tax Social Security benefits or most pension income, making it financially attractive for both working professionals and retirees. Three Forks specifically offers 92 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 6.7x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Three Forks
The typical home value in Three Forks is $535,753, with homes currently listing at a median of $679,967. Renters can expect to pay around $1,263 per month. The median household income is $80,394.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 6.7x, which is above average: plan your budget carefully.
Montana has no state sales tax, which saves residents money on everyday purchases. The state also has no tax on Social Security benefits or most pension income. Property taxes are moderate, based on assessed value.
Three Forks Housing Market
There are currently 46 homes for sale in Three Forks: up 35.3% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 895 total housing units with a 1.8% 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 Three Forks profile.
Three Forks Weather & Climate
Three Forks experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°F. Winters are relatively mild with January lows around 20°F. Expect about 19" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 37°F | 20°F | 0.9" | 2.2" |
| Feb | 31°F | 13°F | 1.5" | 4.1" |
| Mar | 43°F | 23°F | 1.3" | 2.8" |
| Apr | 53°F | 29°F | 2.1" | 2.4" |
| May | 64°F | 41°F | 2.4" | 0.7" |
| Jun | 74°F | 50°F | 2.6" | 0" |
| Jul | 85°F | 57°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 84°F | 57°F | 1.1" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 49°F | 1.6" | 0.2" |
| Oct | 56°F | 35°F | 2.1" | 2.4" |
| Nov | 44°F | 25°F | 1.1" | 1.8" |
| Dec | 37°F | 21°F | 0.9" | 2.1" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Three Forks
Three Forks has access to 92 recreation and attraction sites spanning 14 categories.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring): 24 miles
- Potosi Hot Springs (Hot Spring): 24 miles
- Bozeman Hot Springs (Hot Spring): 28 miles
- Renova Hotspring (Hot Spring): 29 miles
Rivers
Jefferson River is within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Pacabo Dam, Ottertail Lake, Plunket Lake Dam, Willow Creek Reservoir, River Rock Lake.
Hot Springs
Norris Hot Springs (24 mi), Potosi Hot Springs (24 mi), Bozeman Hot Springs (28 mi): perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 92 recreation sites on the full Three Forks profile.
Jobs & Economy in Three Forks
Three Forks has an unemployment rate of 1.1%, which is at or below the state average: indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 67%.
The top industries by employment are Retail (19.4%), Construction (17.2%), Education & Healthcare (13.2%). Approximately 1,111 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Retail | 19.4% |
| Construction | 17.2% |
| Education & Healthcare | 13.2% |
Montana has no state sales tax and no tax on Social Security benefits or most pension 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
Three Forks is served by the Three Forks Public Schools school district with approximately 500 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 94%, 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 Three Forks
The nearest hospital is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 28.8 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 28.8 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Three Forks
Three Forks is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl: 25 miles (40 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl: 174 miles (189 min drive)
- Missoula Intl: 168 miles (183 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell): 252 miles (267 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl: 132 miles (147 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Three Forks
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Low unemployment (1.1%)
- Strong schools (94% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Authentic small-town community
- No state tax on Social Security or most pensions
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 Three Forks, Montana?
The typical home value is $535,753 and rent averages $1,263/month. The median household income is $80,394. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Three Forks?
January lows average 20°F with about 19" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Three Forks a good place to live?
Three Forks offers 92 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 6.7x, and four distinct seasons. Montana's lack of sales tax can help offset some day-to-day costs.
How many homes are for sale in Three Forks?
As of early 2026, there were 46 homes for sale in Three Forks, up 35.3% from the prior year. The community has 895 total housing units with a 1.8% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Three Forks?
Three Forks has a 1.1% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 67%. About 1,111 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is retail. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in Three Forks?
The Three Forks Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 94%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 500 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Three Forks?
The nearest hospital is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (28.8 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 28.8 miles away. There are 9 hospitals within 60 miles.