Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Colstrip, MT
Considering a move to Colstrip, MT? This friendly town of about 2,100 residents offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $186,000 and average rents under $800. Enjoy a short average commute of just 16 minutes, low crime rates, and plenty of sunshine (60% of days each year). With highly rated local schools, small-town charm, and easy access to outdoor recreation, Colstrip is a great fit for those seeking affordability, safety, and a close-knit community.
Demographics - Colstrip, MT
Demographics - Colstrip, MT
Colstrip is a small, close-knit community of around 2,100 residents, predominantly White with a median age of about 41 years. The population density is moderate, and most people speak English at home, reflecting a largely homogenous cultural makeup.
Population:
2,096
Density:
258 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.7
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.1%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Colstrip, MT?
Living in Colstrip is budget-friendly, with median home values at $186,000 and average rents around $730. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an affordable choice for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$186,000
Gross Rent:
$730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,090
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,160
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.8
Grocery:
98.7
Housing:
65.3
Utilities:
92.5
Transportation:
88.4
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
92.7
Crime
Is Colstrip, MT a safe place to live?
Colstrip enjoys a low crime rate with only 155 violent crimes and 1,120 property crimes per 100,000 residents, offering a sense of safety and peace of mind for newcomers. The chances of experiencing violent or property crime are significantly lower than many urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
155
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,275
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 645
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Colstrip, MT year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 8°F and warm summers reaching up to 89°F. The city gets about 14 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 60% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate bright, crisp days.
Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
89°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
14.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Households in Colstrip benefit from a median income of $51,200 and a low poverty rate of 4.8%. Most residents have completed high school, and daily life is convenient with short commutes averaging 16 minutes and low unemployment.
Median Income:
$51,200
Household Income:
$78,300
Family Income:
$85,700
Per Capita Income:
$34,500
Income Male:
$56,100
Income Female:
$43,900
Poverty Rate:
4.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$730
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
15.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
21.3%
Education
How are the schools in Colstrip, MT?
Colstrip provides quality public education through local elementary and high schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, while higher education options like Miles Community College and Montana State University Billings are accessible within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Pine Butte Elementary School
Street:
1201 Willow Ave
Phone:
406-748-3362
Students:
270
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6
Name:
Colstrip High School
Street:
5000 Pine Butte Dr
Phone:
406-748-4699
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.9
Colleges
Name:
Miles Community College
City:
Miles City
State:
MT
Distance:
45 miles
Students:
500
Name:
Montana State University Billings
City:
Billings
State:
MT
Distance:
120 miles
Students:
4,400
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are met by the nearby Rosebud Health Care Center, a critical access hospital offering emergency services. Most residents have health insurance, and physician access is adequate for a town of this size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Rosebud Health Care Center
Address:
383 N 17th Ave, Forsyth, MT 59327
Phone:
(406) 346-4200
Type:
Critical Access Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.8%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Colstrip, MT?
Colstrip’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $186,000 and high owner-occupancy at 79%. The area has a modest home appreciation rate and low foreclosure levels, making it attractive for buyers seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$186,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$760
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Colstrip residents are managed by the Montana Motor Vehicle Division, with resources available in Helena and online for added convenience.
State:
Montana
Department:
Montana Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
302 N Roberts, Helena, MT 59620
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.