Why Move to Virginia City?
Virginia City is a small town of 148 people in Madison County County, sitting at 5,778 feet in elevation. Known as "Montana's Living Ghost 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. Virginia City specifically offers 224 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a growing community, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in Virginia City
The typical home value in Virginia City is $288,600. Renters can expect to pay around $875 per month.
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.
Virginia City Housing Market
Virginia City. The community has 140 total housing units with a 58.6% vacancy rate, suggesting more options and negotiating room for buyers.
Inventory data from Zillow Research (recent). 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 Virginia City profile.
Virginia City Weather & Climate
Virginia City experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 79°F. Winters are cool with January lows around 13°F. Expect about 26" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°F | 13°F | 1" | 2.8" |
| Feb | 26°F | 9°F | 1.4" | 3.9" |
| Mar | 35°F | 17°F | 1.1" | 3" |
| Apr | 43°F | 23°F | 2" | 4.2" |
| May | 56°F | 36°F | 3.2" | 3" |
| Jun | 68°F | 45°F | 3.1" | 0.7" |
| Jul | 79°F | 54°F | 1" | 0" |
| Aug | 77°F | 53°F | 1.5" | 0" |
| Sep | 68°F | 45°F | 1.9" | 0.5" |
| Oct | 50°F | 29°F | 1.8" | 2.6" |
| Nov | 38°F | 19°F | 1" | 2.4" |
| Dec | 30°F | 13°F | 1.1" | 3.1" |
Outdoor Recreation Near Virginia City
Virginia City has access to 224 recreation and attraction sites spanning 19 categories. Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance) is just 61 miles away. For skiing, Big Sky Resort is 26 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Norris Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 22 miles
- Big Sky Resort (Ski Area) — 26 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Madison Range) (Wilderness) — 27 miles
- Biltmore Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 28 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 30 miles
- Potosi Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 33 miles
- Renova Hotspring (Hot Spring) — 35 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 47 miles
Rivers
Madison River (Ennis), Beaverhead River, Jefferson River, Gallatin River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Upper Branham Lake, Ennis Lake, Jackson Lake, Bismark Reservoir, Kelly Reservoir.
Hot Springs
Norris Hot Springs (22 mi), Biltmore Hot Springs (28 mi), Potosi Hot Springs (33 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 224 recreation sites on the full Virginia City profile.
Jobs & Economy in Virginia City
Virginia City 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 43.5%, which is below average — common in retirement and college communities.
The top industries by employment are Tourism & Hospitality (28.1%), Other Services (17.5%), Agriculture & Mining (14%). Approximately 57 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Tourism & Hospitality | 28.1% |
| Other Services | 17.5% |
| Agriculture & Mining | 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
Virginia City is served by the Virginia City 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 Virginia City
The nearest hospital is Madison Valley Hospital in Ennis, 11.1 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 51.6 miles away.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to Virginia City
Virginia City is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 61 miles (76 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 202 miles (217 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 183 miles (198 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 282 miles (297 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 184 miles (199 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in Virginia City
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 224+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (0%)
- Milder winters than eastern Montana
- Skiing at Big Sky Resort (26 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance)
- Strong healthcare access
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- 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 Virginia City, Montana?
The typical home value is $288,600 and rent averages $875/month. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in Virginia City?
January lows average 13°F with about 26" of annual snowfall. Compared to eastern Montana, winters here are relatively mild.
Is Virginia City a good place to live?
Virginia City offers 224 nearby recreation sites, Montana quality of life, and four distinct seasons. It's 61 miles from Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance). Montana's lack of sales tax and retirement income tax are significant benefits.
How many homes are for sale in Virginia City?
Housing availability varies. The community has 140 total housing units with a 58.6% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in Virginia City?
Virginia City has a 0% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 43.5%. About 57 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is tourism & hospitality. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
What healthcare is available in Virginia City?
The nearest hospital is Madison Valley Hospital in Ennis (11.1 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 51.6 miles away. There are 6 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to Virginia City?
Big Sky Resort is 26 miles from Virginia City. The area receives about 26" of snow annually.