Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Helena, MT
Considering a move to Helena, MT? Home to 32,524 residents, Helena offers affordable living with a median home price of $386,000 and average rents around $1,225. Enjoy short commute times of just under 15 minutes, a relatively low violent crime rate, and access to quality healthcare and education—including local colleges and highly rated public schools. With 63% sunny days and a mild cost of living index, Helena blends small-city comfort, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community.
Demographics - Helena, MT
Demographics - Helena, MT
Helena, Montana, is a mid-sized city of 32,524 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 42.3 years. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a family-friendly atmosphere, with about 5.8% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. With a population density of 1,700 people per square mile, Helena offers a blend of urban convenience and small-town charm.
Population:
32,524
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.3
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.3%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
7.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Helena, MT?
Helena provides a cost of living slightly below the national average, with a cost of living index of 98.2. The median home value is $386,000, and average rents are around $1,225, making it an affordable option compared to larger cities. Residents benefit from reasonable utilities, modest state taxes, and generally manageable day-to-day expenses.
Median House Value:
$386,000
Gross Rent:
$1,225
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,670
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$530
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.2
Grocery:
97.4
Housing:
91.0
Utilities:
93.2
Transportation:
98.7
Health Care:
96.5
Miscellaneous:
99.1
Crime
Is Helena, MT a safe place to live?
Helena maintains a relatively low violent crime rate, with 246 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 406 chance of being a victim. Property crime is more common, with a 1 in 47 chance, but overall the city is considered safe by Montana standards. This environment contributes to a strong sense of security and community among locals.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
246
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,150
Crime Index:
2,396
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 406
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Helena, MT year-round?
Helena experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 13°F and warm, pleasant summers reaching highs around 82°F. The city enjoys 63% sunny days annually and receives about 11.2 inches of rainfall each year. This climate supports an active outdoor lifestyle and year-round recreational opportunities.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
48°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
11.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Helena’s neighborhoods are known for their friendly atmosphere, moderate incomes, and low unemployment rate of just 2.8%. The median household income is $68,800, and most residents enjoy short commutes averaging under 15 minutes. High education levels and a poverty rate of 10.4% contribute to a well-rounded, stable community.
Median Income:
$35,400
Household Income:
$68,800
Family Income:
$83,200
Per Capita Income:
$37,900
Income Male:
$49,000
Income Female:
$40,600
Poverty Rate:
10.4%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$1,225
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
14.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.2%
Bachelors or More:
41.1%
Education
How are the schools in Helena, MT?
Helena’s education system is strong, featuring highly rated public schools like Helena High School and several private and higher education options. Carroll College and Helena College University of Montana offer accessible post-secondary opportunities within the city. With a high percentage of adults holding a high school diploma or higher, the city fosters a supportive environment for learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Helena High School
Street:
1300 Billings Ave
Phone:
406-324-2200
Students:
1,420
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
C.R. Anderson Middle School
Street:
1200 Knight St
Phone:
406-324-2800
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Private Schools
Name:
Helena Christian School
Street:
3384 Canyon Ferry Rd
Phone:
406-442-3821
Students:
250
Colleges
Name:
Carroll College
City:
Helena
State:
MT
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,100
Name:
Helena College University of Montana
City:
Helena
State:
MT
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Helena offers robust healthcare options, anchored by St. Peter's Health Regional Medical Center and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.5%. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, the city ensures accessible medical care for its population. Local healthcare services are comprehensive, supporting both routine and emergency needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Peter's Health Regional Medical Center
Address:
2475 Broadway St, Helena, MT 59601
Phone:
(406) 442-2480
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Helena, MT?
Helena’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $386,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 62.5%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,225 and a moderate vacancy rate of 6.1%. Home values have appreciated by 4.2% over the past year, reflecting steady demand and investment potential.
Median Home Price:
$386,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,225
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Montana residents in Helena can access vehicle and licensing services at the Montana Motor Vehicle Division located at 302 N Roberts. The office provides comprehensive DMV services, and support is available both in person and online. For more information or appointments, residents can visit the state’s official DMV website.
State:
Montana
Department:
Montana Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
302 N Roberts, Helena, MT 59601
Phone:
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.