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Moving to Columbia Falls, MT

Thinking of making a move to Columbia Falls, MT? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Columbia Falls, MT

Considering a move to Columbia Falls, MT? This welcoming community of 5,570 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $409,000 and average rents near $1,250. Commute times average 20 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (47% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Columbia Falls's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Columbia Falls, MT

Columbia Falls has a population of 5,570 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 38 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 94% White, 0% Black, and 0% Asian residents, and over 4% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
5,570
Density
1,850 per sq mi
Median Age
38.2
Gender Ratio
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
3.5%

Ethnic Composition

White
94.2%
Black
0.2%
Asian
0.4%
Others
4.0%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Columbia Falls, MT?

The cost of living in Columbia Falls is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 102.7. Median home values are around $409,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,250. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$409,000
Gross Rent
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges
$95
Auto Insurance
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,750
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$525
State Taxes
Low: 1.0%| High: 6.75%
Cost Of Living Index
102.7
Grocery
104.3
Housing
106.5
Utilities
91.8
Transportation
98.1
Health Care
97.2
Miscellaneous
100.7

Crime

Is Columbia Falls, MT a safe place to live?

Columbia Falls is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 182 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 68. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Montana.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
182
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,471
Crime Index
1,653
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 549
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 68

Weather

What is the weather like in Columbia Falls, MT year-round?

Columbia Falls experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 81°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The area receives about 23 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 47% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
15°F
Max
31°F

Summer

Min
48°F
Max
81°F

Spring

Min
30°F
Max
61°F

Fall

Min
34°F
Max
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches
22.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
47%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $57,300 and a low poverty rate of 10.8%. Over 93% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 23% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 20 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$33,400
Household Income
$57,300
Family Income
$66,100
Per Capita Income
$27,900
Income Male
$38,500
Income Female
$32,000
Poverty Rate
10.8%
Non English Speakers
3.5%
Rent
$1,250
Unemployment Rate
3.7%
Public Transport Usage
0.7%
Commute Time
20.2 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
93.2%
Bachelors or More
22.5%

Education

How are the schools in Columbia Falls, MT?

Columbia Falls offers quality education options, with public schools like Columbia Falls High School and Glacier Gateway Elementary known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Flathead Valley Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Columbia Falls High School
Street
610 13th St W
Phone
406-892-6500
Students
630
Student Teacher Ratio
15.2
Name
Glacier Gateway Elementary
Street
440 4th Ave W
Phone
406-892-6540
Students
430
Student Teacher Ratio
14.8

Colleges

Name
Flathead Valley Community College
City
Kalispell
State
MT
Distance
14 miles
Students
2,500

Healthcare

Columbia Falls residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like North Valley Hospital and Kalispell Regional Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.0 per 1,000 people and 89.4% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
North Valley Hospital
Address
1600 Hospital Way, Whitefish, MT 59937
Phone
(406) 863-3500
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
Kalispell Regional Medical Center
Address
310 Sunnyview Ln, Kalispell, MT 59901
Phone
(406) 752-5111
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage
89.4%
Health Care Index
77.1

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Columbia Falls, MT?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $409,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 69%. The market has seen a 6.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 4.6%. Columbia Falls offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$409,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate
68.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate
4.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.2%
New Construction Rate
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate
0.3%

DMV Information

Residents of Columbia Falls handle vehicle services through the Montana Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in Helena. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Montana
Department
Montana Motor Vehicle Division
Address
302 N Roberts, Helena, MT 59620
Phone
406-444-3933

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.

FAQs About Moving to Columbia Falls, MT

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Columbia Falls, review the core fields on this page: population 5,570, median home value $409,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,250, commute time 20.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 47%.

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