How Much House Can I Afford in Montana?
Median Home Price
$430,000
Median Household Income
$67,000
Avg Property Tax Rate
0.74%
Avg Insurance/mo
$125
Montana's housing market was dramatically transformed by the pandemic remote work surge. Bozeman (Gallatin County) saw median prices surge from under $350,000 in 2019 to over $700,000 by 2022, making it one of the least affordable small cities in the US relative to local incomes. Prices have moderated somewhat but remain elevated at $550,000–$650,000 in Bozeman proper. Missoula (Missoula County) has similarly appreciated to $400,000–$500,000.
Great Falls, Billings, and Helena offer more affordable options in Montana at $250,000–$380,000, though these markets have also seen significant appreciation from pandemic-era demand. Billings is the largest city in Montana and offers the most diverse housing market, with medians around $310,000.
Montana's property tax rate of 0.74% is below the national average, providing some relief on high purchase prices. However, homeowners insurance has become more expensive in recent years due to increased wildfire activity across western Montana and the northern Rockies. Average premiums run around $1,500/year ($125/month), but properties in high-risk wildfire areas face higher costs.
Montana Board of Housing (MBOH) offers the regular bond program with below-market interest rates for first-time buyers. Income and purchase price limits apply. Montana's lack of a sales tax (one of five states without one) reduces the cost of furnishing and improving a new home.
Montana has seen dramatic price appreciation since 2020, with Bozeman among the fastest-rising US markets.
Bozeman has become one of the most expensive small cities in the US relative to local incomes.
Wildfire risk is a growing concern for homeowners insurance in Montana.
Montana Board of Housing offers first-time buyer programs with competitive rates.
Income
Monthly Debts
Down Payment
warningPMI applies — put 20% down to eliminate it
DTI Guideline
Front 30% / Back 40%
You can afford up to
—
$2,500/month total payment
Constrained by front-end DTI
Budget Range
Conservative → AggressiveDebt-to-Income Ratios
Front-end DTI (housing)
Back-end DTI (all debts)
Monthly Payment Breakdown
Scenario Comparison
Ways to Increase Your Budget
Adding $10K to your down payment could increase your budget by $9K.
+$9KA 0.5% lower rate could expand your budget by $13K.
+$13KYou're paying $198/mo in PMI. Reaching 20% down eliminates this cost.
Know your target home price?
arrow_forwardSee full amortization scheduleDisclaimer: These estimates are for educational purposes only. Actual loan qualification depends on your credit score, lender guidelines, and local market conditions. Consult a licensed mortgage professional before making any financial decisions.