Why ????? (Missoula, Bozeman, Dillon: real estate, rental, low crime)

[jodyangel]

So Why are the houses in south western MT so expensive seeing how you are giving up so many creature comforts???

[USMC1967]

South Western Montana is a vast region, what specific area(s) are you referring to? The housing market in places like Anaconda, Butte, Dillon, Deer Lodge is very affordable, particularly when compared to areas like Missoula and Bozeman.

[historyfan]

Real estate & house construction prices are higher in Montana than neighboring states. There are all sorts of reasons, but it must be rather shocking to someone not expecting it.

[brb going fishing]

Because of the scenery. Turns out people are willing to give up tons of creature comforts (including access to jobs, etc) in order to live among these mountains. I see more scenery each time I walk out my front door to take out the trash than an average easterner will see in his lifetime.

[Desertrose34]

Because it's a beautiful place to live. Mountains, lakes, rivers, fishing, hunting, skiing, etc. Low crime. Jobs are low paying though.

[jodyangel]

I am not moving to Anaconda, just working for the summer, but why are home prices so high?

[USMC1967]

If you're only working for the summer why are you concerned about housing prices, would not a month to month rental be more appropriate?

[Redraven]

I have found that many people who complain about high home prices seem to have a "Champagne taste" on a "beer budget".
First, decide the maximum price you can afford. Then, when you go house hunting, ignore anything that is above that price level. Also, avoid "gated communities" and other upscale areas.
There is affordable housing out there, even for lower middle class wage earners. Talk to your lender of choice first, then find a Realtor to assist you in your search.
Good luck.

[Clark Fork Fantast]

It's all relative. The OP lives in NC, and obviously home prices are lower there than in the West, overall. Try working in SoCal over the summer and research the housing market....

[cvarcher]

HA HA I love that comment by BRB going fishing " I see more scenery taking out the trash than the average easterner sees in a lifetime". Im a new yorker but i agree and can relate to it. All I see is more homes streetlights ,cars, streets and sidewalks and yeah some trees and bushes and stuff . Perhaps a squirrel or a few birds.Im afraid though it seems the rest of america wants "civilization" to cultivate all over this land. Places for wildlife take second seat to more and more people we let in from the rest of the world all because we keep saying we are a nation of immigrants and welcome all. And I say --big f..n deal,where do you draw the line! Why do we want the rest of the world here!!!! OK, i feel better now.