Where to live in MT (Missoula, Bozeman: wedding, living, shop) - Montana - City-Data Forum

countryway · 06-02-2009, 02:23 PM

Greetings. I am new here, and I was inquiring to find out which part of MT is the most old-fashioned, laid-back, simple western lifestyle, with good, down to earth, friendly, "everyone's family" kind of people? I read on here so much about the influx of out-of-staters with "ways-changing" ideas and modern alterations to traditional MT lifestyle and ways. I want to avoid those areas that are so "progressive", modern, and fast-paced. I would prefer a country lifestyle...which suits me fine. And would like to be in the same area of similar minded individuals. I also appreciate the beauty of nature at its natural which I am sure MT has plenty of. And enjoy an equestrian and ranching environment as well. I love Mountain living, but am concerned it has been overrun by "careless out-of-staters" of which I am not...well, I am an out-of-stater...but not careless for Montana's way of life and values. I will be obliged for your thoughtful help and wise guidance, friends.

Timberwolf232 · 06-02-2009, 06:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by countryway

Greetings. I am new here, and I was inquiring to find out which part of MT is the most old-fashioned, laid-back, simple western lifestyle, with good, down to earth, friendly, "everyone's family" kind of people? I read on here so much about the influx of out-of-staters with "ways-changing" ideas and modern alterations to traditional MT lifestyle and ways. I want to avoid those areas that are so "progressive", modern, and fast-paced. I would prefer a country lifestyle...which suits me fine. And would like to be in the same area of similar minded individuals. I also appreciate the beauty of nature at its natural which I am sure MT has plenty of. And enjoy an equestrian and ranching environment as well. I love Mountain living, but am concerned it has been overrun by "careless out-of-staters" of which I am not...well, I am an out-of-stater...but not careless for Montana's way of life and values. I will be obliged for your thoughtful help and wise guidance, friends.

Hi,
I'm not sure I know a town that fits the "mayberry" ideal. I've been in and out of the state for many years and have found, on the outskirts of many areas there are just the kind of people you are looking for!

Our family lives outside of Belgrade, and though we don't go to the bars much, we do hang out with our "family of friends" almost every weekend. Our kids all play together and we camp, fish, hunt and do almost everything together. My wife and I even had our wedding at a friends ranch, and when we took off on our honeymoon, our friends came along, babysat for a night and then we all went out on the town and had a blast!

The lifestyle you are looking for does exist, but you may have to spend some time finding the right people. I don't know that there is a town like what you describe, and it might take a while to get to know folks.. But if you are honest, and can roll with the punches I betcha you will find what you are looking for.

MTSilvertip · 06-02-2009, 06:43 PM

Your question is a little broad, and hard to answer.
This is a very large state, with very different climates, people, vistas and attitudes.

You can find laid back, family values, and rural livestyles all over. If you want to avoid the libs and greens, stay away from Missoula and Helena.

You will find good hard working people anywhere you go in this state. People who have traditional values, family, and a supurb work ethic.

They can be open and friendly beyond what you may ever expect.

That said. The greatest influx of out of staters is west of the divide, and Bozeman. The movie stars have "discovered" the area around Livingston and Big Timber all the way east along the Absarokee-Beartooth front to Nye and Fishtail ending around Red Lodge. Not a good place to be anymore.

There are good people where-ever you go, but don't expect them to come running to welcome you.
It will take time to be accepted. You will have to prove you are worthy of their friendship.

If you act like they owe you because you graced their rustic little backwater hamlet with your gracious presence, It will be a long cold lonely winter.

Visit, ask questions, go to the local coffee shop and see the locals, listen to them.
Make your decision after some investigation as each place in the state has it's own charm and personality. Find the one that matches you.

Mt-7 · 06-02-2009, 06:46 PM

Have you visited yet?

griz134 · 06-03-2009, 09:38 AM

Choteau, Augusta, Dillon, maybe Conrad.

countryway · 06-04-2009, 06:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by seven of nine

Have you visited yet?

No...I haven't visited MT yet...I plan to this summer. I have been in Wyoming many times, but thats as close.

I seem to understand that the type of lyfestyle I am inquiring about appears more abundant in the eastern part of the state? I do love the mountains and forests very much, but would be disturbed by a very liberal, modern and hectic type of environment.

Is the ranching and equestrian environment more easterly? Thanks for all your responses thus far...they are greatly valued, folks.

Mt-7 · 06-04-2009, 06:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by countryway

No...I haven't visited MT yet...I plan to this summer. I have been in Wyoming many times, but thats as close.

I seem to understand that the type of lyfestyle I am inquiring about appears more abundant in the eastern part of the state? I do love the mountains and forests very much, but would be disturbed by a very liberal, modern and hectic type of environment.

Is the ranching and equestrian environment more easterly? Thanks for all your responses thus far...they are greatly valued, folks.

Humm... Where is AQHA? He would be able to answer the horsey questions!