Montana draws in retirees who care more about big skies and open space than about packed freeways and giant metros. In the cities on this list, you see a mix of mountain views, river or canyon scenery, and neighborhoods that still keep clinics, hospitals, shops, and local events within easy reach.
This guide looks at the best places to retire in Montana so you can choose the spots that fit your budget, comfort with winter, and the kind of everyday life you want close to the outdoors.
Our Top Picks for Retirees
• Bozeman for an active, high-energy retirement as a gateway to world-class outdoor adventures. • Missoula for an artistic and cultural hub with a vibrant riverside lifestyle and creative spirit. • Billings for a perfect balance of urban convenience and stunning natural scenery. • Great Falls for a peaceful, budget-friendly retreat with rich history and Missouri River views. • Helena for small-town capital charm and a welcoming community at an affordable price.
Bozeman
Bozeman isn't just a city; it's a gateway to adventure. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush valleys, this town is perfect for those who crave an active lifestyle amidst breathtaking scenery.Cost of Living
Bozeman might come with a higher price tag, with a cost of living index at 110, but the experiences it offers are priceless. Here, your investment gets you more than just a home—it buys you access to world-class outdoor activities, vibrant cultural events, and a community that’s as rich in spirit as it is in beauty.Climate and Weather
Bozeman enjoys around 210 days of sunshine each year, with summers that invite you outdoors with warm, pleasant temperatures averaging 82°F. Winters turn the landscape into a snowy wonderland, making it perfect for those who love skiing, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying a cozy night in by the fire.Healthcare Facilities
In Bozeman, health and wellness are a priority. The city boasts eight top-notch healthcare centers, including Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital, which offers comprehensive care ranging from routine check-ups to specialized treatments. Whether you need expert cardiology services or just a flu shot, you’re covered.Attractions and Activities
For the nature lover, Bozeman is paradise. Spend your mornings hiking the trails of the Gallatin National Forest, and your afternoons exploring the fascinating exhibits at the Museum of the Rockies. When the evening comes, enjoy a farm-to-table dinner downtown before catching a live performance at the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture. In Bozeman, each day is an opportunity for a new adventure.Missoula
Missoula is where the artistic soul of Montana comes alive, offering a blend of outdoor adventure and a vibrant cultural scene.Cost of Living
With a cost of living index of 105, Missoula balances affordability with the perks of a lively arts community. Your budget stretches further here, allowing you to enjoy everything from gallery openings to guided river rafting tours.Climate and Weather
Missoula basks in about 205 days of sunshine a year, making it easy to enjoy its abundant outdoor activities. Summers are comfortably warm, around 80°F, ideal for kayaking down the Clark Fork River or biking through the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. Winters offer a serene snowy backdrop that’s perfect for cross-country skiing or simply taking in the quiet beauty of the landscape.Healthcare Facilities
Missoula’s healthcare system is robust, with seven healthcare centers dedicated to keeping you healthy and active. St. Patrick Hospital, a leading medical facility, provides specialized care, including oncology and heart health services, ensuring you have access to top-quality medical attention when needed.Attractions and Activities
In Missoula, the arts are as alive as the rivers that run through it. Catch a film at the historic Roxy Theater, enjoy live music at the Wilma, or browse the First Friday art galleries that showcase local talent. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, spend your weekends fly-fishing, hiking, or floating down the river. Missoula is a place where creativity and nature go hand in hand. In Montana, the scenery might be similar from one town to the next, but life can feel very different once you factor in winter roads, distance to hospitals, and how often you’ll see other people your age. Looking at senior living communities in Montana can help you find places that keep you close to the mountains and open space you love, while still giving you practical support, social connection, and a monthly cost that works long term.Billings
Billings offers the perfect mix of urban convenience and outdoor splendor, making it an ideal spot for retirees who want it all.Cost of Living
With a cost of living index of 95, Billings makes it easy to live well without stretching your retirement savings. Here, you can afford a comfortable lifestyle that includes everything from dining out at top-notch restaurants to indulging in hobbies like golfing or gardening.Climate and Weather
Billings enjoys about 220 sunny days each year, perfect for those who love the outdoors. Summer temperatures reach a warm 84°F, ideal for exploring the Rimrocks or taking a scenic drive along the Beartooth Highway. Winters are mild, offering just enough chill to make the holidays feel festive without being too harsh.Healthcare Facilities
Billings is home to six well-equipped healthcare centers, including the Billings Clinic, one of the top hospitals in the region. Whether you need routine care or specialized treatment, you’ll find experienced professionals ready to help you maintain your health and well-being.Attractions and Activities
In Billings, the possibilities are endless. Hike the scenic Rimrocks for panoramic views of the city, explore the Western Heritage Center to learn about Montana’s rich history, or enjoy a round of golf at one of the city’s beautiful courses. Afterward, treat yourself to a local brew at one of Billings’ craft breweries, where you can relax and take in the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.Great Falls
Great Falls offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by some of the most stunning natural beauty Montana has to offer.Cost of Living
With a cost of living index of 100, Great Falls strikes a perfect balance between affordability and quality of life. Here, you can enjoy the simple pleasures without sacrificing comfort or convenience.Climate and Weather
Great Falls enjoys about 210 days of sunshine each year. Summers are pleasantly warm, around 81°F, making it easy to explore the city’s parks and trails. Winter brings a serene beauty to the landscape, with snow-covered trees and crisp air, perfect for cozying up by the fire or taking a peaceful walk in the snow.Healthcare Facilities
Five healthcare centers serve the Great Falls area, with Benefis Health System leading the charge. This state-of-the-art facility offers everything from emergency services to specialized care, ensuring that you have access to top-quality medical attention when you need it.Attractions and Activities
The Missouri River flows through Great Falls, offering scenic views and plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to dive into history, or take in the natural beauty at Giant Springs State Park. Great Falls is where history, nature, and community come together.Helena
Helena, Montana’s capital, combines rich history with a welcoming community, offering retirees a unique and fulfilling lifestyle.Cost of Living
Helena’s cost of living index is 90, making it one of the most affordable places on our list. Here, you can enjoy a comfortable retirement while taking advantage of all the amenities this charming city has to offer.Climate and Weather
With about 200 days of sunshine a year, Helena offers a mild and enjoyable climate. Summers are warm but not too hot, averaging 80°F, perfect for exploring the city’s historic districts or hiking nearby trails. Winters bring a quiet charm, with enough snow to make the landscape sparkle without being overwhelming.Healthcare Facilities
Helena’s four healthcare centers provide excellent care, with St. Peter’s Health at the forefront. This facility offers a full range of medical services, from routine check-ups to specialized treatments, ensuring that you’re well cared for in every aspect of your health.Attractions and Activities
Helena is a treasure trove of history and culture. Visit the Montana State Capitol to admire its architecture, or explore the Cathedral of St. Helena with its stunning stained glass. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby Mount Helena offers miles of hiking trails with breathtaking views. Helena is a city where you can immerse yourself in the past while enjoying the comforts of the present.Is Montana a Good Place for Retirees?
Montana is a state of contrasts—wild and untamed yet welcoming and warm. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling culture of Bozeman or the quiet serenity of Great Falls, Montana offers a lifestyle that’s as diverse as its landscapes. With affordable living, excellent healthcare, and a community spirit that’s hard to match, Montana is more than just a place to retire—it’s a place to thrive.Ready to Explore Montana Senior Living Options?
If you’re drawn to Montana for the views and quieter pace, it’s worth checking how senior living options in each city handle things like transportation, medical access, and staying active when the weather turns. Comparing senior living communities in Montana side by side can make it easier to spot the communities that balance outdoor lifestyle with safety, support, and predictable costs, so you can build a shortlist that feels exciting and realistic at the same time.Subscribe to Our Blog
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