Why Move to West Yellowstone?
West Yellowstone is a small town of 1,272 people in Gallatin County County, sitting at 6,667 feet in elevation. Known as "The Yellowstone 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. West Yellowstone specifically offers 137 recreation and attraction sites nearby, a housing affordability ratio of 10.5x, and four distinct seasons.
Cost of Living in West Yellowstone
The typical home value in West Yellowstone is $601,098. Renters can expect to pay around $1,035 per month. The median household income is $57,167.
The affordability ratio (home price ÷ income) is 10.5x, which is on the expensive side, reflecting strong demand.
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.
West Yellowstone Housing Market
There are currently 14 homes for sale in West Yellowstone — up 16.7% from last year, indicating a loosening market. The community has 956 total housing units with a 46.2% 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 West Yellowstone profile.
West Yellowstone Weather & Climate
West Yellowstone experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are mild with July highs averaging 78°F. Winters are cold with January lows around 8°F. Expect about 37" of snow annually.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Precip | Snow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 24°F | 8°F | 1.9" | 5.3" |
| Feb | 24°F | 7°F | 2.3" | 6.4" |
| Mar | 34°F | 13°F | 1.8" | 4.9" |
| Apr | 41°F | 19°F | 1.7" | 3.9" |
| May | 53°F | 28°F | 2" | 2.5" |
| Jun | 65°F | 37°F | 2.2" | 0.6" |
| Jul | 78°F | 46°F | 0.6" | 0" |
| Aug | 75°F | 46°F | 1.3" | 0" |
| Sep | 65°F | 37°F | 1.8" | 0.3" |
| Oct | 47°F | 23°F | 2.1" | 2.8" |
| Nov | 33°F | 13°F | 1.7" | 4" |
| Dec | 25°F | 8°F | 2.1" | 5.8" |
Outdoor Recreation Near West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone has access to 137 recreation and attraction sites spanning 16 categories. Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance) is just 1 miles away. For skiing, Big Sky Resort is 45 miles from town.
Top Nearby Attractions
- Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance) (National Park) — 1 miles
- Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance) (National Park) — 32 miles
- Yellowstone Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 35 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Madison Range) (Wilderness) — 41 miles
- Big Sky Resort (Ski Area) — 45 miles
- Chico Hot Springs (Hot Spring) — 53 miles
- Lee Metcalf Wilderness (Spanish Peaks) (Wilderness) — 54 miles
- Gallatin National Forest (National Forest) — 61 miles
Rivers
Madison River (Ennis), Gallatin River are all within reach for fishing, floating, and kayaking.
Lakes
Nearby lakes include Tweedy Lake, Duck Creek Pond, Hebgen Lake, Cliff Lake, Leech Lake.
Hot Springs
Yellowstone Hot Springs (35 mi), Chico Hot Springs (53 mi) — perfect for soaking after a day on the trails.
Explore all 137 recreation sites on the full West Yellowstone profile.
Jobs & Economy in West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone has an unemployment rate of 0.9%, which is at or below the state average — indicating a healthy local job market. The labor force participation rate is 75.1%, reflecting an active and engaged workforce.
The top industries by employment are Tourism & Hospitality (52.5%), Transportation (12.7%), Retail (8.8%). Approximately 882 residents are employed locally.
Employment by Industry
| Industry | Share of Employment |
|---|---|
| Tourism & Hospitality | 52.5% |
| Transportation | 12.7% |
| Retail | 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
West Yellowstone is served by the West Yellowstone Public Schools school district with approximately 150 students enrolled. The high school graduation rate is 92%, which is above the Montana state average of ~87%. Per-pupil spending is approximately $14,800.
Graduation rates from OPI/NCES 2022–23. Per-pupil spending from Montana OPI fiscal data.
Healthcare in West Yellowstone
The nearest hospital is Big Sky Medical Center in Big Sky, 45.3 miles away. For advanced or emergency care, Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman (Level 3 Trauma Center) is 70.5 miles away.
Note: Healthcare access in West Yellowstone is limited. If you have ongoing medical needs, consider proximity to Bozeman Health Deaconess when making your decision.
Hospital data from MT DPHHS 2024. Verify services directly with facilities.
Getting to West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone is accessible via the following airports:
- Bozeman Yellowstone Intl — 92 miles (107 min drive)
- Billings Logan Intl — 177 miles (192 min drive)
- Missoula Intl — 254 miles (269 min drive)
- Glacier Park Intl (Kalispell) — 352 miles (367 min drive)
- Great Falls Intl — 234 miles (249 min drive)
Pros & Cons of Living in West Yellowstone
Pros
- No state sales tax
- 137+ recreation sites nearby
- Low unemployment (0.9%)
- Strong schools (92% grad rate)
- Skiing at Big Sky Resort (45 mi)
- Near Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance)
- Authentic small-town community
- No state income tax on retirement
Cons
- Cold winters
- Housing costs above national average
- Limited housing inventory
- Limited healthcare access (nearest hospital: 45.3 mi)
- 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 West Yellowstone, Montana?
The typical home value is $601,098 and rent averages $1,035/month. The median household income is $57,167. Montana has no state sales tax, which helps offset costs.
What are winters like in West Yellowstone?
January lows average 8°F with about 37" of annual snowfall. Winter driving skills and proper vehicle preparation are essential.
Is West Yellowstone a good place to live?
West Yellowstone offers 137 nearby recreation sites, a higher affordability ratio of 10.5x, and four distinct seasons. It's 1 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 West Yellowstone?
As of early 2026, there were 14 homes for sale in West Yellowstone, up 16.7% from the prior year. The community has 956 total housing units with a 46.2% vacancy rate (Census ACS 2019–2023). Check Zillow or local MLS for the most current listings.
What is the job market like in West Yellowstone?
West Yellowstone has a 0.9% unemployment rate, which is at or below the state average. Labor force participation is 75.1%. About 882 residents are employed locally. The leading industry is tourism & hospitality. Montana has no state sales tax, which benefits both businesses and consumers.
How are the schools in West Yellowstone?
The West Yellowstone Public Schools school district has a graduation rate of 92%, above the Montana state average of ~87%. Approximately 150 students are enrolled. Per-pupil spending is approximately $14,800.
What healthcare is available in West Yellowstone?
The nearest hospital is Big Sky Medical Center in Big Sky (45.3 miles). The nearest major trauma center is Bozeman Health Deaconess in Bozeman, 70.5 miles away. There are 2 hospitals within 60 miles.
Where is the nearest skiing to West Yellowstone?
Big Sky Resort is 45 miles from West Yellowstone. The area receives about 37" of snow annually.