Cost of living

Montana generally offers a lower cost of living compared to Colorado, particularly in housing and utilities. Groceries and healthcare costs are slightly lower as well, though rural living can increase transportation expenses. Unlike Colorado’s growing urban centers with higher costs, Montana provides a more affordable lifestyle overall, making it attractive for families and individuals seeking more space and lower expenses.

Housing

Housing in Montana is more affordable than in Colorado, with a wide range of options from rustic cabins and ranch-style properties to modern homes in cities like Billings, Missoula, and Bozeman. While Colorado’s mountain towns have seen steep increases in housing costs, Montana still offers relatively reasonable prices, though popular areas like Bozeman are becoming more competitive. Overall, Montana provides more land and larger properties at lower prices than Colorado’s urban housing markets.

Job opportunities

Montana’s job market is smaller than Colorado’s but offers opportunities in healthcare, agriculture, education, and tourism. Cities like Billings and Missoula serve as regional hubs, while Bozeman has growing opportunities in tech and outdoor industries. Compared to Colorado’s more diverse economy that includes energy, tech, and aerospace, Montana’s job market is more specialized but stable, particularly in industries tied to its natural resources and growing outdoor recreation sector.

Education

Montana is home to several respected higher education institutions, including the University of Montana in Missoula and Montana State University in Bozeman. Public schools across the state vary, with smaller districts offering more individualized attention. Families moving from Colorado will find Montana’s schools provide strong community ties, though options are fewer compared to Colorado’s larger metro areas.

Transportation

Transportation in Montana is car-dependent, with limited public transit options outside larger cities like Missoula and Billings. Highways are well maintained, but long travel distances between towns are common. Air travel is served by regional airports, with Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport being one of the busiest in the state. Compared to Colorado’s mix of highways and urban transit systems like Denver’s RTD, Montana offers simpler but less connected options.

Entertainment

Montana emphasizes outdoor and community-based entertainment. Residents enjoy rodeos, fairs, and local festivals, along with cultural attractions such as museums and theaters in larger cities. While Colorado has a thriving arts and music scene, Montana’s entertainment is more low-key, focusing on outdoor living, local events, and regional traditions.

Parks and Recreation

Montana is renowned for its natural beauty, with access to Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and countless mountain ranges, lakes, and rivers. Outdoor activities include hiking, fishing, hunting, skiing, and boating. Compared to Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and ski resorts, Montana provides a less crowded but equally stunning natural environment, appealing to those who prioritize wide-open spaces and wilderness adventures.