Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Seeley Lake, MT
Considering a move to Seeley Lake, MT? This scenic small town of around 1,600 people offers affordable living with median home prices at $370,000 and average rents near $1,050. Enjoy low violent crime rates (140 per 100k), short commutes around 26 minutes, and abundant access to outdoor recreation amid Montana’s beautiful landscapes. Local schools feature small class sizes, and you’ll experience four distinct seasons with over 56% sunny days. Seeley Lake is ideal for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a friendly, close-knit community.
Demographics - Seeley Lake, MT
Demographics - Seeley Lake, MT
Seeley Lake is a small, close-knit Montana community with about 1,600 residents and a median age of 54, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White, with a slight male majority and only 2% non-English speakers, fostering a homogenous and welcoming environment. Population density is low, offering plenty of space and a peaceful rural lifestyle.
Population:
1,600
Density:
170 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.5%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Seeley Lake, MT?
Living in Seeley Lake is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $370,000 and average rent around $1,050 for a two-bedroom. Utility and insurance costs are modest, while the overall cost of living index sits just below the national average at 98. State income taxes range from 1% to 6.75%, making the area attractive for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$370,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,000
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,380
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
6.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.0
Grocery:
98.5
Housing:
93.0
Utilities:
94.7
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is Seeley Lake, MT a safe place to live?
Seeley Lake enjoys a low violent crime rate of 140 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe place for families and retirees. Property crime is more common, with a rate of 1,200 per 100,000, but overall, residents face lower crime risks than in many larger cities. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 715.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
140
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,200
Crime Index:
1,340
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 715
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Seeley Lake, MT year-round?
Residents of Seeley Lake experience four distinct seasons, with cold winters (lows around 10°F) and warm summers reaching up to 80°F. The town enjoys 56% sunny days each year, along with moderate rainfall at about 18 inches annually. This climate is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate seasonal variety and abundant sunshine.
Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
40°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
25°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
17.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Households in Seeley Lake have a median income of $57,800, with a poverty rate of 11.5% and an unemployment rate of just 4.2%. The community is well-educated, as 92% of adults have completed high school and over 21% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Most residents drive to work, with an average commute of about 26 minutes, reflecting the town's rural setting.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$57,800
Family Income:
$65,000
Per Capita Income:
$31,100
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
2%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
26.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.0%
Bachelors or More:
21.5%
Education
How are the schools in Seeley Lake, MT?
Seeley Lake offers quality public education with small class sizes at both the elementary and high school levels, fostering personalized learning. While there are no private schools, higher education is accessible at the University of Montana, located just 54 miles away in Missoula. The community values education, reflected in high graduation rates and a supportive academic environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Seeley-Swan High School
Street:
456 Airport Rd
Phone:
406-677-2224
Students:
150
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Name:
Seeley Lake Elementary
Street:
200 School Lane
Phone:
406-677-2265
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2
Colleges
Name:
University of Montana
City:
Missoula
State:
MT
Distance:
54 miles
Students:
10,000
Healthcare
Seeley Lake provides access to basic healthcare through the Seeley-Swan Medical Center, while more comprehensive and emergency services are available in nearby Missoula. The area has 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 89% health insurance coverage. Healthcare options are sufficient for most needs, though specialty care may require travel.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Seeley-Swan Medical Center
Address:
3050 MT Hwy 83 N, Seeley Lake, MT 59868
Phone:
(406) 677-2277
Type:
Primary & Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Providence St. Patrick Hospital
Address:
500 W Broadway St, Missoula, MT 59802
Phone:
(406) 543-7271
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.5%
Health Care Index:
65.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Seeley Lake, MT?
The housing market in Seeley Lake is primarily owner-occupied, with 78.5% of residents owning their homes and a median home price of $370,000. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $1,050 and a vacancy rate of 7.2%, offering flexibility for newcomers. Home values have appreciated steadily, increasing by 3.1% over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$370,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Seeley Lake are managed through the Montana Motor Vehicle Division, with the main office located in Helena. Residents can access information, renewals, and licensing online or by contacting the DMV at 1-406-444-3933. The process is straightforward and consistent with state-wide standards.
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.