8 Best Towns In Montana To Retire Comfortably
Comfort, care, and connection are what retirees will find when they settle in Montana. When choosing a new town to call home, affordability, community support, and convenient medical access are often top priorities for seniors. Fortunately, Montana has all that, plus a relaxing lifestyle and beautiful scenery that retirees desire. The question is: Are you ready for the next chapter in your life? With convenient medical facilities, recreational opportunities, affordable housing, natural beauty, and holistic support, among many other attractive qualities, Montana has towns that check off all the boxes for many retirees.
Lewistown
Located in central Montana, Lewistown is a peaceful and caring community for retirees. While the average home value in Montana is roughly $464,000, the average home value in Lewistown is much lower. At approximately $277,000, people living on a fixed income will appreciate this more affordable median home value. Assisted living options like Eagles Manor are also an option in town. The Fergus County Council on Aging is a fabulous local support system for retirees. It provides safe in-town and out-of-town transportation for seniors at affordable rates and educational workshops. Regarding medical care, the Central Montana Medical Center serves the community with emergency care, rehabilitation, and specialty clinics, and veterans have access to the Lewistown VA Clinic. Lewistown has walking and biking trails and fishing spots in Big Spring Creek for opportunities to stay active.
Deer Lodge
The benefits of retiring in Deer Lodge span a broad range. For one, there are many ways for seniors to stay active and engaged. Exploring the historic Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, strolling through the charming historic Main Street, and visiting local museums like the Montana Auto Museum and Frontier Montana Museum are physically low-impact yet motivating experiences for people of all ages. Residents can also go hiking, fishing, and birding at Arrow Stone Park and the Warm Springs Wildlife Management Area. In Deer Lodge, the average home value is approximately $275,000, and there are multiple senior living facilities in the area, such as Renaissance Senior Care and The Ivy at Deer Lodge. The town also boasts a low level of violent crimes, so residents can feel at ease living in Deer Lodge.
Havre
Havre is a budget-friendly town with a prominent senior center, making it a very attractive place to retire in Montana. The average home value is roughly $234,000, and assisted living facilities with varying levels of hands-on care are also located in town. Havre Eagles Manor offers amenities such as 24-hour staffing and medical assistance, whereas Buffalo Court Senior Housing consists of handicap-accessible apartments for independent seniors. Northern Montana Hospital is nearby for any ongoing or emergency medical needs. As far as recreation goes, Havre does not fall short. The Havre Senior Center is where local seniors head for bingo, coffee clubs, and health services, and activities such as birdwatching at Bear Paw Battlefield or fishing at Fresno Reservoir are also commonly enjoyed by the area’s retired community.
Anaconda
In Anaconda, where the average home value is around $284,000, a comfortable lifestyle for seniors is a top priority. This town has primary care clinics and pharmacies to support residents' health, and St. James Healthcare in nearby Butte is also an excellent healthcare facility. If you are hoping for RV living in your golden years, Big Sky RV Park and Campground is located near town with gorgeous scenery. Independent living communities and assisted living facilities in Anaconda also ensure that retirees have access to the level of care they require. The Smelter City Senior Citizen Center offers social activities, meals, educational programs, and recreational events specifically tailored for individuals 65 and over. Lost Creek State Park and the Washoe Theater are other great places in Anaconda for retirees to spend time.
Choteau
With an average home value of $275,000, Choteau is a welcoming town with all the comforts retirees need. Residents of Choteau receive emergency care, rehabilitation, and long-term residential care at Benefis Teton Medical Center. If community living is a priority, the Skyline Lodge Retirement Apartments offers independent living, and BeeHive Homes provides assisted living, memory care services, 24-hour staffing, and home-cooked meals as necessary. Teton Peak Assisted Living is another local option for those hoping to live near other seniors. Retirees spend time at the Choteau Senior Citizens Center for group activities and recreation.
Harlowton
Harlowton offers retirees a close-knit community in a budget-friendly town. With an average home value of $152,000 and independent living options available at an average monthly cost of less than $1,000, Harlowton is an attractive option for anyone on a fixed income. Wheatland Memorial Healthcare supports various medical needs, including emergency care, laboratory services, radiology, physical therapy, and telemedicine. For fun, retirees can socialize over a game of bridge or pinochle at the Wheatland County Senior Citizens Center, or visit local attractions such as Chief Joseph Park, the Upper Musselshell Museum, and the Harlo Theater.
Miles City
Located along the Yellowstone River in eastern Montana, Miles City is a beautiful small town for retired people to call home. Medical care is easy to come by in Miles City, which is important for people older than 65. The hospital at Holy Rosary Healthcare is the go-to facility for residents requiring emergency care, surgical services, and specialized treatments. Still, the town also has several primary care clinics and pharmacies. With a median home value of approximately $227,000, it provides budget-friendly housing options, as well as several assisted living facilities in the area. It is also important to note that Miles City has relatively low crime rate represents the town’s commitment to resident safety.
Butte
Butte is rich in amenities, support services, and affordable housing options that retirees might find attractive. In order to build friendships, seniors can enjoy group meals, crafts, exercise classes, and games at the Belmont Senior Center. Seniors can participate in more lively annual activities like the Montana Folk Festival and the St. Patrick’s Day parade. Campus-style developments like Copper Ridge Health and Rehab support residents with assisted living needs and memory care. Those looking to purchase a home will appreciate that the average home value is approximately $271,000 in Butte. Southwest Montana’s only acute care facility, St. James Hospital, and several primary care clinics are located throughout the city.
Staying active, engaged, and well cared for all improve the quality of life for retirees, and being able to do all that while surrounded by natural beauty and communities of fellow seniors is why a small town in Montana is such a great place to consider for retirement. Budget-friendly homes, outdoor recreation, excellent medical facilities, and vibrant community support systems, each Montana town can serve as a haven for your retirement. As you plan for the next phase of your life, consider how these Montana communities might be the perfect place for the retirement of your dreams.
