Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Birney, MT
Moving to Birney, MT? This tiny community of just 108 residents offers a rural lifestyle, low housing costs (median home price $142,000; average rent $680), and plenty of wide-open space. Crime rates are relatively low, and most people enjoy short commutes of around 28 minutes. While amenities are limited, nearby schools and small-town living appeal to those seeking quiet and an authentic Montana experience. Explore cost of living, housing, and local resources below to see if Birney fits your lifestyle.
Demographics - Birney, MT
Demographics - Birney, MT
Birney is a small rural community with only 108 residents, offering a low population density of 5 people per square mile and a median age of 47.2 years. The population is predominantly White (65%) and Native American (30%), creating a unique cultural blend. With a nearly even gender ratio and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, Birney maintains a close-knit, diverse atmosphere.
Population:
108
Density:
5 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
65.0%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Birney, MT?
Birney offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $142,000 and average rent around $680 per month. The Cost of Living Index is lower than the national average at 88.0, meaning everyday expenses like groceries and utilities are generally more budget-friendly. This makes Birney an attractive option for those seeking value in a quiet Montana setting.
Median House Value:
$142,000
Gross Rent:
$680
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
95.2
Housing:
77.5
Utilities:
92.4
Transportation:
93.1
Health Care:
96.0
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Birney, MT a safe place to live?
Birney experiences relatively low crime, with a violent crime rate of 180 per 100,000 people and property crime at 1,000 per 100,000. Residents enjoy a sense of safety, with the chance of violent crime being 1 in 555. The small population and rural character contribute to its peaceful environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,000
Crime Index:
1,180
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 100
Weather
What is the weather like in Birney, MT year-round?
Birney has four distinct seasons, with cold winters (lows around 5°F), warm summers (highs up to 86°F), and mild transitional seasons. The area receives about 13.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 60% sunny days, making it suitable for those who appreciate crisp, varied Montana weather. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of sunshine and clear skies throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
5°F
Max:
35°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
25°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Residents of Birney typically enjoy a modest lifestyle, with a median household income of $41,500 and a per capita income of $21,200. The area has a poverty rate of 19%, but most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commutes average about 28 minutes. With no reliance on public transportation, the community values self-sufficiency and rural tranquility.
Median Income:
$31,000
Household Income:
$41,500
Family Income:
$48,000
Per Capita Income:
$21,200
Income Male:
$29,000
Income Female:
$22,000
Poverty Rate:
19.0%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$680
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.5%
Bachelors or More:
16.2%
Education
How are the schools in Birney, MT?
Birney is served by Ashland Public School, offering small class sizes and a student-teacher ratio of about 10.5, fostering personalized learning. For higher education, Chief Dull Knife College is located 45 miles away in Lame Deer, providing local opportunities for post-secondary study. The area emphasizes accessible education within a rural setting.
Public Schools
Name:
Ashland Public School (serves Birney)
Street:
1 School Rd, Ashland, MT 59003
Phone:
406-784-4676
Students:
90
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Colleges
Name:
Chief Dull Knife College
City:
Lame Deer
State:
MT
Distance:
45 miles
Students:
350
Healthcare
Birney residents have access to major healthcare facilities such as Rosebud Health Care Center and St. Vincent Healthcare within driving distance. The community has a healthcare coverage rate of nearly 89% and about 0.9 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring basic medical needs are met. Emergency services are available nearby, supporting the health and wellbeing of locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Rosebud Health Care Center
Address:
383 N 17th Ave, Forsyth, MT 59327
Phone:
(406) 346-2161
Type:
Critical Access Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Vincent Healthcare
Address:
1233 N 30th St, Billings, MT 59101
Phone:
(406) 657-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
0.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.6%
Health Care Index:
65.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Birney, MT?
The housing market in Birney is appealing for buyers, with a median home price of $142,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 74%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $680 and a low vacancy rate. Modest home appreciation and minimal foreclosures indicate stability in this rural market.
Median Home Price:
$142,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$680
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing for Birney are managed through the Montana Motor Vehicle Division, located in Helena. Residents can access DMV services both in person and online, making it convenient for new arrivals to handle driving-related needs. The state's DMV is known for straightforward processes and accessible customer support.
State:
Montana
Department:
Montana Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
302 N Roberts St, Helena, MT 59601
Phone:
1-406-444-3933
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.