Why Move to Townsend?
Townsend is a small town of 1,967 people in Broadwater County County, sitting at 3,825 feet in elevation. Known as "The Broadwater Gateway," 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. Townsend specifically offers 211 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 6.1x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Townsend
The typical home value in Townsend is $431,165, with homes currently listing at a median of $462,300. Renters can expect to pay around $976 per month. The median household income is $70,774.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 6.1x, 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 or other retirement income. Property taxes are moderate, based on assessed value.
Townsend Housing Market
There are currently 42 homes for sale in Townsend — up 20% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 978 total housing units with a 6.2% 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 Townsend profile.
Townsend Weather & Climate
Townsend experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 85°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 | 0.8" | 1.9" |
| Feb | 31°F | 12°F | 1.2" | 3" |
| Mar | 42°F | 21°F | 1" | 2.2" |
| Apr | 52°F | 29°F | 1.7" | 2.4" |
| May | 64°F | 40°F | 2.2" | 1.1" |
| Jun | 74°F | 49°F | 2.4" | 0.1" |
| Jul | 85°F | 56°F | 0.5" | 0" |
| Aug | 83°F | 56°F | 1.1" | 0" |
| Sep | 74°F | 48°F | 1.3" | 0.3" |
| Oct | 55°F | 34°F | 1.6" | 2.2" |
| Nov | 43°F | 25°F | 0.7" | 1.3" |
| Dec | 36°F | 20°F | 0.7" | 1.7" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Townsend
Townsend has access to 211 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) is just 98 miles away. For skiing, Bridger Bowl is 46 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Alhambra Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 26 miles
- Boulder Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 30 miles
- Broadwater Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 31 miles
- Spa Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 34 miles
- Helena-Lewis & Clark NF (National Forest) — 35 miles
- Gates of the Mountains Wilderness (Wilderness) — 40 miles
- Potosi Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 45 miles
- Bridger Bowl (Ski Area) — 46 miles
Rivers
Jefferson River, Smith River, Missouri River (Craig), Gallatin River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include South Fork Crow Creek Lakes, Upper Baldy Lake, Edith Lake, Plunket Lake Dam, Gipsy Lake.
Hot Springs
Alhambra Hot Springs (26 mi), Boulder Hot Springs (30 mi), Broadwater Hot Springs (31 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 211 recreation sites on the full Townsend profile.
Jobs & Economy in Townsend
Townsend has an unemployment rate of 11.4%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 64.8%.
The top industries by employment are Retail (22.1%), Education & Healthcare (17.7%), Construction (14%). Approximately 1,075 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Retail | 22.1% |
| Education & Healthcare | 17.7% |
| Construction | 14% |
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
Townsend is served by the Townsend Public Schools school district with approximately 500 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 Townsend
Townsend has its own hospital — Broadwater Health Center (10 beds). For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 49.8 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Townsend
Townsend is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 50 miles (65 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 176 miles (191 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 154 miles (169 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 226 miles (241 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 97 miles (112 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Townsend
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 211+ recreation sites nearby
- Strong schools (91% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Bridger Bowl (46 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
- Has a local hospital
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Limited housing inventory
- Higher unemployment (11.4%)
- Limited shopping and dining options
- Distance from major metro areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Townsend, Montana?
The typical home value is $431,165 and rent averages $976/month. The median household income is $70,774. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Townsend?
January lows average 19°F with about 16" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Townsend a good place to live?
Townsend offers 211 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 6.1x, and four distinct seasons. It's 98 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 Townsend?
As of early 2026, there were 42 homes for sale in Townsend, up 20% from the prior year. The community has 978 total housing units with a 6.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Townsend?
Townsend has a 11.4% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 64.8%. About 1,075 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 Townsend?
The Townsend Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 91%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 500 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Townsend?
Townsend has a local hospital, Broadwater Health Center. The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 49.8 miles away. There are 6 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Townsend?
Bridger Bowl is 46 miles from Townsend. The area receives about 16" of snow annually.