Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Shaw, MT
Considering a move to Fort Shaw, MT? With a welcoming population of around 280, this rural community offers affordable living—a median home price of $265,000 and average rents near $950. Residents enjoy a low crime rate, short 27-minute commutes, and a peaceful, sunny climate with 58% sunny days. Fort Shaw features small class sizes at its local school, access to healthcare in nearby Great Falls, and a close-knit, friendly atmosphere—perfect for those seeking Montana’s scenic charm and simple living.
Demographics - Fort Shaw, MT
Demographics - Fort Shaw, MT
Fort Shaw is a small, close-knit rural community with a population of about 280 people and a median age of 48.2, reflecting a mature demographic. The town is predominantly White, with a small representation of Native American and Hispanic residents, creating a friendly and welcoming environment. Low population density and a balanced gender ratio contribute to its peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Population:
280
Density:
170 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
106 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Shaw, MT?
Fort Shaw offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $265,000 and average rents around $950 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking value without sacrificing essential amenities. Utility and transportation costs remain reasonable, and Montana's state taxes are moderate.
Median House Value:
$265,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,175
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.3
Grocery:
98.0
Housing:
88.7
Utilities:
94.2
Transportation:
97.3
Health Care:
95.5
Miscellaneous:
93.0
Crime
Is Fort Shaw, MT a safe place to live?
Safety is a highlight in Fort Shaw, where violent crime rates are very low—about 90 incidents per 100,000 residents—and the chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 1,110. Property crime rates are also modest, contributing to the community’s reputation as a secure and family-friendly place to live. Residents enjoy peace of mind thanks to the town's quiet, rural setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
90
Property Crimes Per 100k:
570
Crime Index:
660
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,110
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 175
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Shaw, MT year-round?
Fort Shaw experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 11°F and warm, pleasant summers reaching highs of 83°F. The area receives about 13.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 58% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate Montana’s scenic outdoors. Residents can expect crisp winters and plenty of sunshine throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
50°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
13.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
The community is characterized by a strong sense of neighborliness, with a median household income of $61,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.6%. Most residents are well-educated, with over 93% holding at least a high school diploma, and the poverty rate stands at a low 7.8%. Commutes are reasonable at around 27 minutes, and almost everyone relies on personal vehicles for transportation.
Median Income:
$39,500
Household Income:
$61,200
Family Income:
$68,500
Per Capita Income:
$29,100
Income Male:
$44,000
Income Female:
$35,500
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.1%
Bachelors or More:
26.8%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Shaw, MT?
Families in Fort Shaw benefit from small class sizes at Fort Shaw Elementary School, offering individualized attention with a student-teacher ratio of 11.5. While there are no private schools in town, higher education opportunities are available 28 miles away at Great Falls College Montana State University. The community values education, with most adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Fort Shaw Elementary School
Street:
1 School Loop, Fort Shaw, MT 59443
Phone:
406-264-5586
Students:
75
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Colleges
Name:
Great Falls College Montana State University
City:
Great Falls
State:
MT
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Residents of Fort Shaw benefit from access to quality healthcare services in nearby Great Falls, including general and emergency care at Benefis Health System. Most locals have health insurance coverage, and there are 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring timely medical attention when needed. The area’s healthcare index reflects reliable access to essential health resources.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Benefis Health System
Address:
1101 26th St S, Great Falls, MT 59405
Phone:
(406) 455-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Shaw, MT?
Fort Shaw's housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $265,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 84.2%. Rental options are available, with average rents for a two-bedroom home at $950, and the market sees modest appreciation and low foreclosure rates. This environment is ideal for buyers seeking long-term value in a rural Montana setting.
Median Home Price:
$265,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Local residents handle vehicle-related services through the Montana Motor Vehicle Division, conveniently located in Helena and accessible online. The DMV provides essential licensing, registration, and driving resources for Fort Shaw residents. Helpful support is available both by phone and via their official website.
State:
Montana
Department:
Montana Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
302 N Roberts St, 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.