7 Best Towns In Montana For Retirees

Montana has several factors that make it a great place to retire, such as great healthcare, financial incentives, and access to a wide range of support and resources. Known for being a tax-friendly state, it has an overall lower tax burden than most of the United States, with certain amounts of social security and pensions exempt from tax. Montana is one of only five states that have no sales tax at all, allowing individuals to retire comfortably. Additionally, Montana is rated as one of the most naturally beautiful states, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to connect with nature. It is these factors, among others, that make each of the locations discussed below some of the best towns in Montana for retirement.

Hamilton

Hamilton, Montana, has many features that make it a great place to retire, from lower property values in comparison to the national average, several hospitals located within 50 miles, and an abundance of independent and assisted living homes. Every Saturday morning, residents can attend the Hamilton Farmers Market, which offers locally grown, non-GMO produce, fruit, and baked goods. A popular spot for entertainment is the Hamilton Senior Center, giving residents a chance to get to know their neighbours and make new friends, all while enjoying themselves by participating in games and activities. For those looking to spend time outdoors, there is the Alpine Lake and the Bitterroot Mountains, which are filled with captivating views and a chance to spend time in the great outdoors.

Butte

With a population of approximately 35,701, Butte, Montana, is one of the more populated towns on this list. The number of residents, however, has not impacted the median home price as it is still significantly lower than the national average. Retirement in this town offers individuals access to many different activities and may be a prime location for those who want a more fast-paced lifestyle. Butte has several museums worth mentioning, specifically the World Museum of Mining and the Historic Clark Museum and Gallery, which offer tours and host community events. Individuals who enjoy the theatre can attend one of the many performances that take place at the Mother Lode, which includes a circus of horror, live music, and The Nutcracker. Butte is known as Montana’s ‘Festival City,’ as it hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the Original Festival and the Freedom Festival.

Libby

Libby, Montana, is a town that has low crime rates, low home prices, and provides well-rounded adventure and entertainment for people of all ages. Events include the River Front Blues Festival, which offers live music and entertainment, and a farmers’ market filled with fresh local produce. The Kootenai National Forest is a great place to visit to spend time outdoors, with popular activities such as camping, picnicking, fishing, rock climbing, boating, and hiking. Take the time to visit the Kootenai Falls and the swinging bridge, which provides a beautiful view of the river. Retirees can enjoy all the activities this town has to offer while also getting the support and care needed with various services offered, particularly through Libby’s Senior Citizen Center.

Lewistown

Lewistown, Montana, is another town that provides a great place for retirement, filled with opportunities for outdoor recreation and community events. The median home values are generally lower than the national average, although there has been an increase in recent years, demonstrating the growing popularity of the town. A significant portion of the population in Lewistown is over the age of 65, and as a result, there are various activities offered for senior residents, making it a great community for retirement. Residents can participate in Gardening classes held on Saturday mornings or join the summer Chess Club. Lewistown is also home to the second-largest national wildlife refuge in the lower 48 states, the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, with approximately 1.1 million acres of land. There are many opportunities to discover the vast array of wildlife. Several events are held throughout the year in Lewistown, which include, but are not limited to, the Centerfield Music Festival, the Choke Cherry Festival, and the PRCA Pro Rodeo at the Central Montana Fair.

Conrad

With a population of approximately 2,402, Conrad, Montana, is a small town with a big heart. When looking for a place to retire, Conrad checks all the boxes, having a significantly lower median home price, a lower overall crime rate, and a strong sense of community. Conrad is known for its local events, which include live music festivals, Whoop-up Days, and the Rhubarb Festival, featuring a two-day rodeo, pancake breakfast, and parade. Residents often spend their time in the historic downtown, where local shops and history collide to create a beautiful and walkable area that includes the Conrad Transportation and Historical Museum and the restored Orpheum Theatre, where you can view a selection of films in a historically significant building.

Glendive

Glendive offers affordable housing, access to great healthcare, and several community and senior resources. In particular, the Glendive Senior Citizens Center is always welcoming, offering seniors a space to meet and socialize while also providing them with important resources. Glendive is surrounded by the Makoshika State Park, a nature preserve that is used for public recreation, where visitors can hike the trails, camp, and even look at the various dinosaur fossils. For those wanting to spend time inside, there is the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum, which is a 20,000 square foot building that features over 23 fossil and full-sized dinosaur exhibits. Glendive also has a wide range of events, including the Makoshika Music and Arts Festival and a farmers' market, which is held every Tuesday from 5 pm to 8 pm.

Miles City

Miles City, Montana, is a town that is well suited for retirees due to its lower costs of living, from housing and transportation to groceries and healthcare. There is a noticeable difference in price compared to the average in the United States. A quiet place with a low crime rate, Miles City is best suited for those who enjoy nature and the outdoors. Close by is the Bonfield Fishing Access Site, which is open year-round and located on the Yellowstone River and is popular for boating, fishing, and camping. If art and history are something you enjoy, take a trip to the historic downtown area and make sure to attend the Water Works Art Museum, which holds a collection of contemporary work. A popular place among Miles City residents as well as visitors is the Eastern Montana Fairgrounds, as numerous activities are held there throughout the year, such as the world-famous Bucking Horse Sale, rodeos, and carnivals.

There are many things to consider when looking for a place to retire, such as access to healthcare, community support and services, and financial security. Each of these towns offers a great place to retire comfortably and enjoy yourself. The importance of vital services and individual preferences should be considered. Whether you wish to live in a small, quiet town or settle down in a location that is closer to the city, Montana has something for everyone. Known as the ‘last best state,’ Montana has a reputation for being a fantastic place to retire. With a low population density, and around 80 percent of communities in Montana have a population of 3,000 or less, there is no shortage of small towns that provide security and comfort.