Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Benton, MT
Considering a move to Fort Benton, MT? This historic small town, home to about 1,466 residents, offers scenic river views and a low-key lifestyle. Housing here is affordable with median home prices around $168,000 and average rents near $700. Crime rates are low, commutes are short (just over 14 minutes), and the cost of living is well below the national average. You'll enjoy Montana’s sunny climate and access to quality local schools, making Fort Benton an easy-going, family-friendly place to call home.
Demographics - Fort Benton, MT
Demographics - Fort Benton, MT
Fort Benton is a close-knit community with a population of 1,466 and a median age of 48.3, reflecting a mature and stable population. The city is predominantly White, with a small Native American presence, and a balanced gender ratio. Its high population density for a small town fosters a friendly, neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
1,466
Density:
1,160 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.3
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Benton, MT?
Living in Fort Benton is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 88.0, well below the U.S. average. Median home values are around $168,000, and average rents are just $700, making housing particularly affordable. Residents also benefit from reasonable grocery, utility, and transportation costs, keeping everyday expenses manageable.
Median House Value:
$168,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
72.3
Utilities:
95.2
Transportation:
83.7
Health Care:
92.6
Miscellaneous:
89.1
Crime
Is Fort Benton, MT a safe place to live?
Fort Benton enjoys low crime rates compared to many cities, with residents facing a 1 in 704 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 96 chance of property crime. The overall crime index signals a safe environment, making it an attractive place for families and individuals seeking peace of mind. The small-town atmosphere contributes to a strong sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
142
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,040
Crime Index:
1,182
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 704
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 96
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Benton, MT year-round?
Fort Benton experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 86°F and chilly winters dipping to 11°F. The city enjoys about 62% sunny days each year and receives an average of 13.2 inches of rainfall, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents can look forward to a climate that balances sunshine with comfortable seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
30°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The median household income in Fort Benton is $47,100, with a poverty rate of 14.5% and an unemployment rate of just 3.8%. Most residents enjoy short 14-minute commutes and a high educational attainment, as over 91% have at least a high school diploma. The community is welcoming and primarily English-speaking, creating a friendly small-town vibe.
Median Income:
$31,800
Household Income:
$47,100
Family Income:
$57,400
Per Capita Income:
$25,900
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$33,000
Poverty Rate:
14.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
14.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.3%
Bachelors or More:
23.8%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Benton, MT?
Fort Benton offers a strong public school system with small class sizes, including Fort Benton Elementary and High School, fostering personalized attention for students. Higher education opportunities are accessible at Great Falls College MSU, just 41 miles away. The community values education, as seen in its high rate of residents with a high school diploma or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Fort Benton Elementary School
Street:
1406 Franklin St
Phone:
406-622-3721
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.1
Name:
Fort Benton High School
Street:
1820 Washington St
Phone:
406-622-5112
Students:
127
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.8
Colleges
Name:
Great Falls College MSU
City:
Great Falls
State:
MT
Distance:
41 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in Fort Benton is anchored by the Missouri River Medical Center, a critical access hospital providing essential and emergency services. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% health insurance coverage, locals have reliable access to medical care. The city’s healthcare index suggests solid service quality for a rural area.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Missouri River Medical Center
Address:
1501 St Charles St, Fort Benton, MT 59442
Phone:
(406) 622-3331
Type:
Critical Access Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.8%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Benton, MT?
Fort Benton’s housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $168,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $700. About 70% of homes are owner-occupied, and the low foreclosure rate of 0.3% reflects a healthy market. Home values have appreciated by 5.2% over the past year, making it a sensible place to invest in property.
Median Home Price:
$168,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
70.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Fort Benton residents are served by the Montana Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in Helena and accessible online. The state DMV provides comprehensive services for licensing, registration, and driver resources. Assistance is available through their website or by phone for all vehicle and driving needs.
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.