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Bozeman Real Estate Group
Moving to Bozeman, Montana? Here Are 10 Things You Need to Know
On Apr 01, 2023
1. The growing pains are real
Bozeman has been growing at a tremendous rate these past few years. As with any growth, especially when it happens fast, there are bound to be some hardships. Bozeman is feeling those growing pains. Those who live here bounce between welcoming the growth and resisting the change. There is more traffic and more crime. The rivers are getting crowded, and don’t get us started on the crowds up Hyalite. It can be tough, especially for anyone who has lived here for a long time. Everyone is trying to adjust to the growth and we hope it continues in a positive direction. Click here for more about Bozeman's growing pains.
2. Housing is expensive
Affordable housing has been a hot topic in Bozeman for years, as the cost of housing continues to rise. As of mid-2024, the median price of a single-family home in Bozeman was over $ 900,000 and the average rent is over $2,000 (according to Rent Cafe). For those who are priced out of Bozeman, there are nearby towns that are more affordable like Belgrade, Three Forks, and Livingston. Navigating this competitive market can be tough, but working with a realtor offers an advantage. They often have insider knowledge of listings before they hit the market, helping buyers stay ahead in Bozeman's fast-moving market.
3. It's all fun and games until February
Ah, Montana summers—clear skies, warm days, and cool, refreshing evenings. It's the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and explore the mountains. But winter? That’s a whole different story. Starting as early as October and lasting through May, the winters in Bozeman can be oh so long. The first snowfall is exciting, especially for skiers, but by March the cold and snow feel endless. Our advice? Invest in a quality jacket and embrace the chill, knowing that at least you are riding out winter in a place that has more than 300 sunny days a year. That helps.
4. There are cowboys here but that does not mean you have to dress like one
Yes, Montana is home to real cowboys, but you probably won’t spot them strolling down Main Street in their hats and boots—they’re out working in the fields or on the ranch. So, if you’re strolling around town in your cowboy gear, you might as well be holding a big red "tourist" flag.
5. We are friendly folks and we would like to keep it that way
Bozeman may have grown from its small-town roots, but its strong sense of community remains. There was a time when you couldn’t go anywhere without bumping into someone you knew—whether it was an old friend, your third-grade teacher, or even your grandma. Despite the changes, the spirit of Bozeman lives on in the friendly gestures, like holding doors, picking up trash, and waving someone into traffic. If you're new here, especially from a big city, embracing this small-town friendliness is key to fitting in.
6. Get involved
With over 60 meet-up groups in Bozeman, there are so many options to meet new friends. No matter what you are into you are bound to find something that fits. MOMS Club of Belgrade/Bozeman, Mix and Mingle Singles, and the Bozeman Outdoor Enthusiasts are great meet-up groups in Bozeman. (Click here for the full list of meetup groups) Facebook also has a ton of community and meet-up groups that are worth looking in to. Volunteering is one of our favorite ways to meet people and luckily there are so many fantastic non-profits to choose from in Bozeman. You get to help others in our community and make new friends. That's a win-win for sure!
7. Pick some outdoor hobbies
You probably didn’t move here because you love to be indoors. People move to Montana because they want to get out and enjoy all it has to offer. There may be a few people that just want to look at the mountains, but most want to play in them. If you aren’t already passionate about an outdoor hobby, dabble in a few to see what speaks to you. There are plenty to choose from…skiing, hunting, hiking, fishing, golfing, camping, biking, running, rock climbing, kayaking...the list goes on.
8. We take the local thing seriously
Going local is the “cool” thing to do now, but Bozeman really means it. Sure, there are chain restaurants and stores that we all go to sometimes, however most try to support local whenever we can. Whether it’s buying produce from local growers at the Farmers Markets’ or choosing a neighborhood coffee shop over Starbucks, supporting local is really important here in Bozeman.
9. We love our pets
It’s a dog’s world here in Bozeman. On top of the hundreds of miles of trails, a half dozen off-leash parks, and plenty of doggy daycares, we also have plenty of stores just for the pups where you can find locally made dog beds, toys, and organic treats. And since it is Bozeman, you should probably get a lab and name it Bridger...or Madison. We're creative like that.
10. Slow down and enjoy it
Bozeman is truly one of the last best places. Slow down, enjoy it, and remember why you moved here in the first place.
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