Why Move to Valier?
Valier is a small town of 573 people in Pondera County County, sitting at 3,819 feet in elevation. Known as "The Lake Frances Town," 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. Valier specifically offers 71 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 6.2x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Valier
The typical home value in Valier is $277,276. Renters can expect to pay around $780 per month. The median household income is $44,432.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 6.2x, 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.
Valier Housing Market
There are currently 6 homes for sale in Valier — down 45.5% from last year, indicating tightening supply. The community has 349 total housing units with a 17.2% 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 Valier profile.
Valier Weather & Climate
Valier experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with July highs averaging 81°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 19°F. Expect about 18" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 35°F | 19°F | 0.6" | 1.3" |
| Feb | 27°F | 11°F | 1.1" | 2.8" |
| Mar | 39°F | 20°F | 0.9" | 2" |
| Apr | 49°F | 29°F | 1.5" | 2.8" |
| May | 61°F | 40°F | 2.4" | 1.2" |
| Jun | 71°F | 49°F | 2.4" | 0" |
| Jul | 81°F | 57°F | 0.4" | 0" |
| Aug | 80°F | 56°F | 1.1" | 0" |
| Sep | 70°F | 48°F | 1.5" | 1.1" |
| Oct | 52°F | 34°F | 1.2" | 2" |
| Nov | 41°F | 25°F | 1.3" | 2.6" |
| Dec | 33°F | 18°F | 0.9" | 2.2" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Valier
Valier has access to 71 recreation and attraction sites spanning 12 categories. Glacier National Park (East Glacier) is just 46 miles away. For skiing, Teton Pass Ski Area is 37 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Teton Pass Ski Area (Ski Area) — 37 miles
- Glacier National Park (East Glacier) (National Park) — 46 miles
- Medicine (Sun River) Springs (Hot Spring) — 54 miles
- Great Bear Wilderness (Wilderness) — 58 miles
- Going-to-the-Sun Road (Scenic Drive) — 73 miles
- Bob Marshall Wilderness (Wilderness) — 76 miles
- Glacier National Park (West Glacier) (National Park) — 80 miles
- Scapegoat Wilderness (Wilderness) — 90 miles
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Four Horns Lake, Virden Lake, Verden Lake, Arod Lakes, Snyder Pond.
Hot Springs
Medicine (Sun River) Springs (54 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 71 recreation sites on the full Valier profile.
Jobs & Economy in Valier
Valier has an unemployment rate of 7.4%, which is above the state average and may present challenges for job seekers. The labor force participation rate is 48.8%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Education & Healthcare (23%), Agriculture & Mining (15.5%), Construction (8.8%). Approximately 239 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Education & Healthcare | 23% |
| Agriculture & Mining | 15.5% |
| Construction | 8.8% |
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
Valier is served by the Valier Public Schools school district with approximately 130 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 Valier
The nearest hospital is Pondera Medical Center in Conrad, 16.8 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Benefis Health System in Great Falls (Level 2 Trauma Center) is 70.5 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Valier
Valier is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 219 miles (234 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 295 miles (310 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 155 miles (170 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 111 miles (126 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 84 miles (99 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Valier
Pros
- No state sales tax
- Strong outdoor recreation access
- Strong schools (91% grad rate)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Teton Pass Ski Area (37 mi)
- Near Glacier National Park (East Glacier)
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Limited housing inventory
- Higher unemployment (7.4%)
- 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 Valier, Montana?
The typical home value is $277,276 and rent averages $780/month. The median household income is $44,432. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Valier?
January lows average 19°F with about 18" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Valier a good place to live?
Valier offers 71 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 6.2x, and four distinct seasons. It's 46 miles from Glacier National Park (East Glacier). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Valier?
As of early 2026, there were 6 homes for sale in Valier, down 45.5% from the prior year. The community has 349 total housing units with a 17.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Valier?
Valier has a 7.4% unemployment rate, which is above the state average. Labor force participation is 48.8%. About 239 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 Valier?
The Valier Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 91%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 130 students are enrolled.
What healthcare is available in Valier?
The nearest hospital is Pondera Medical Center in Conrad (16.8 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Benefis Health System in Great Falls, 70.5 miles away. There are 4 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Valier?
Teton Pass Ski Area is 37 miles from Valier. The area receives about 18" of snow annually.