Featured City Missoula

Missoula, Montana

Nestled in the rugged beauty of Montana’s Big Sky County is Missoula, a city that perfectly combines the beauty of nature seamlessly with the comforts of modern living. Known as the “Garden City,” Missoula has gorgeous natural landscapes, a vibrant cultural scene, and a thriving, close-knit community. It’s a captivating place and the perfect location to call home for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Here, we’ll take you through the real estate landscape and the beautiful homes for sale in Missoula, MT. We’ll also explore what life is like in Missoula so you can discover why people love living in this special place in Montana.

Missoula, MT at a glance

People: Missoula is a medium-sized city with a population of around 77,000. This means that it is large enough to have all the amenities you would expect to have in a large metro area but is never crowded and retains a strong sense of community and identity. Note that the population is fairly young with the median age being 33 years old, giving the area a vital energy that only adds to the vibrancy of the city.

Weather: Residents enjoy four seasons. The fall is golden. Winters are snowy and crisp and spring brings the refreshing rains that make summer glorious.

Location: The city covers approximately 29.1 square miles and is situated roughly 109 miles southwest of Montana’s capital city, Helena. Specifically, Missoula is located along the Clark Fork River near the river’s confluence with the Bitterroot and Blackfoot Rivers in Western Montana. Its location is also at the convergence of five mountain ranges, often described as the “hub of five valleys.” This provides residents and visitors with stunning landscapes and endless outdoor recreation opportunities.

The city is within driving distance of some of the region’s most renowned natural wonders, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier National Park, 150 miles to the north or two and half hours by car, and Yellowstone National Park, 280 miles to the southeast or four hours by car.

A Brief History of Missoula, MT

Missoula was initially inhabited by the Native Americans from the Salish Tribe, who referred to the area as “Nemissoolatakoo” or “Place of Cold Water.”

In 1877, the city’s modern history began with the establishment of Fort Missoula, followed by the construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s. The railroad brought growth and development to the city, transforming it into a thriving trading and transportation hub. Missoula continued to grow in the 19th and 20th centuries, with lumber and sawmill industries contributing to the local economy. However, Missoula has always taken great care to preserve its heritage and culture as the city grew and developed.

It’s long been known for its cultural scene, and many artists, writers, and more flock to this creative community to enjoy its theaters, art galleries, and regular art and music festivals.

Today, Missoula has become a city that’s proud of its history and has a community that treasures its heritage while continuing to embrace new opportunities.

Real estate for sale in Missoula, MT

There are several types of homes for sale in Missoula, MT. Most homes available are detached single-family homes ranging from historic homes in the University District to modern developments in the suburban areas. These homes are perfect for first-time buyers, renters, and small families.

Condominiums and townhomes are also available that are popular among young professionals and students.

Missoula also has mountain retreat properties, including cabins and rural properties ranging in size from small and rustic cabins to spacious mountain escapes. Luxury homes are also available, with sprawling square footage exceeding 4,000 square feet. These homes feature premium amenities and beautiful architectural design. Those looking at the higher end of the housing spectrum can view gorgeous expansive properties with top-of-the-line amenities closer to the water or the mountains.

Architectural Styles and Amenities

The architectural styles in Missoula tend to reflect the city’s historical roots combined with several exciting new modern developments.

The most popular architectural styles for homes for sale in Missoula, MT include contemporary homes with their sleek aesthetic designs focusing on minimalist practicality. You’ll also see Mid-Century Modern homes that blend natural elements and sleek, functional designs. Large floor-to-ceiling windows and spacious rooms are hallmark features.

Craftsman-style homes are also popular in the area and are defined by their exposed rafters, overhanging eaves, and use of woodwork. Many of these types of homes can be found in older, historic neighborhoods in Missoula.

You can’t have a mountain town without log homes. These are a popular style of home in Missoula and reflect the state’s heritage. They are typically made of cedar, fir, or pine and can vary in shape and size. These homes are not necessarily the cozy small huts that may spring to mind when someone says log cabin. Some are grand and luxurious. They often feature large windows that draw in the surrounding landscape and have fireplaces and wood stoves which enhance the rustic charm.

Amenities and Features

Amenities and features found in homes for sale in Missoula, MT, will, of course, vary depending on the type of property and location of the home. However, some typical amenities and features you can expect are:

• Mountain views – Wherever you are in Missoula, you’re almost guaranteed a spectacular mountain view. The better views can be had in Missoula’s outskirts or elevated areas.
• Fireplaces – A popular amenity during Missoula winters, fireplaces are common in homes in the area.
• Decks and patios – Outdoor living spaces are popular and enable residents to enjoy indoor and outdoor living.
• Large yards – Many homes in the area feature large and spacious yards with ample room for outdoor activities.
• Energy efficient features – Modern heating systems are often built into newer homes.

These are some of the most popular amenities people look for when looking at homes in Missoula. These often go hand-in-hand with hardwood floors, walk-in closets, granite countertops, and, in newer homes, smart home technology.

Where to live in Missoula, MT

Choosing where to live in Missoula depends on your desired home type and your specific lifestyle and preferences. This outdoor community is made up of 20 neighborhoods, so there are many residential options. Here are some of the top areas to consider in Missoula.

• Rattlesnake – North of downtown Missoula, this neighborhood is perfect for outdoor recreation and urban conveniences. Its proximity to the Rattlesnake National Recreation and Wildnerness allows residents easy access to several hiking and biking trails.
• University District – As the name implies, this neighborhood is home to the University of Montana. It’s a vibrant neighborhood with unique housing options, from modern apartments to historic homes. It’s an ideal location for students, faculty, and young professionals.
• Grant Creek – Grant Creek is a picturesque neighborhood at the foothills of the Rattlesnake Mountains. It features a variety of housing options, from ranch-style homes to newer developments, making it a truly diverse neighborhood in Missoula.
• Northside – This historic neighborhood has recently seen significant upgrades and revitalization. It’s near downtown Missoula and offers residential and commercial properties, including breweries, art galleries, and a good selection of restaurants.
• South Hills – This neighborhood is known for its stunning panoramic views of the Missoula Valley. It’s a nice mix of single-family homes and townhouses and is located near several parks, trails, and highly-rated schools, making it an ideal option for families.

Life in Missoula, MT

Missoula is a fantastic city because it perfectly combines suburban and urban living and great natural beauty. The city has a vibrant and welcoming community made up of residents who simply love the outdoors, artists who thrive in this cultural hub, and students from the University of Montana, all of whom come together to celebrate all the city offers.

Cost of Living and Employment

The cost of living in Missoula is generally lower than many similar urban areas in the country. While the cost of housing may continue to rise, it is still relatively affordable compared to several major cities.

However, utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs may be slightly higher than the national average. These are subjective and dependent on your lifestyle, family size, and personal preferences.

The economy in Missoula is diverse and driven by sectors such as healthcare, education, government, technology, and tourism. The University of Montana is a significant employer, and the city’s diverse outdoor recreation supports jobs in the outdoor and tourism industry.

Missoula is also home to several tech startups and a growing entrepreneurial base. Many job opportunities are available for those with education, healthcare, and technology backgrounds, but the job market can be competitive.

Schools and Education

Missoula is known for its quality education and has several top schools both at primary and secondary levels. And, of course, it’s also home to the popular University of Montana.

Here are some of the highly-rated schools in Missoula:

• Hawthorn School – K-5
• Paxson Elementary School – K-5
• Hellgate Elementary School – K-5
• Washington Middle School – 6-8
• Meadow Hill Middle School – 6-8
• Hellgate High School – 9-12
• Sentinel High School – 9-12

You can also choose private schools like Loyola Sacred Heart High School and other options such as Willard Alternative High School and Missoula International School.

Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor activities are the favorite of residents in Missoula, and they always have options, no matter the season. The city offers several parks and a plethora of outdoor activities. Here are some you can enjoy when living in Missoula.

• Hiking – Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Mount Sentinel, and Bitterroot National Forest offer great hiking.
• Fishing and Kayaking – The Clark Fork River and surrounding streams offer excellent fishing and kayaking.
• White Water Rafting – Clark Fork River and Blackfoot Rivers offer thrilling white water rafting adventures.
• Mountain Biking – Favorite biking areas include Blue Mountain and Pattee Canyon Recreation Area.
• Rock Climbing – There are several places to rock climb in Missoula, but some of the most popular ones include Kootenai Canyon and Milltown State Park.
• Skiing and Snowboarding – Several ski resorts are available throughout Missoula that get very busy during the winter.
• Camping – The area has many camping locations, including Bitterroot National Forest and Lolo National Forest.

There are also several smaller parks, picnic areas, and playgrounds around Missoula neighborhood for residents to enjoy.

Attractions and Entertainment

While a big draw to the area is outdoor activities, there are also fun things to enjoy in and around the city.

Places to visit include:

• University of Montana – Not just for students, the University holds events, a museum, a planetarium, places to eat, and a golf course among many other attractions.
• Montana Natural History Center – Not just for the kids who will love the many kids’ activities and camps, adults can also join in many conservation and educational programs.
• Missoula Art Museum – With so much not only to see but also do, the MAM is a cultural center that explores art in all forms and involves the whole community.
• Garnet Ghost Town – At once slightly eerie but also fascinating, Garnet Ghost Town takes you back to the time of the gold miners and their families.

Several arts, music, and film festivals are held throughout the year, along with concerts, theatre performances, art exhibits, and more.

Dining

Missoula prides itself on local homegrown restaurants, farm-fresh ingredients, and a supportive and collaborative community.

You’ll notice several partnerships within the town between local businesses, including coffee shops using oat milk from local creameries and indie theaters selling locally fermented kombucha. If you enjoy wine, you’re in for a treat with several wineries in Missoula that offer wine tasting and tours.

There is an excellent selection of local dining options in Missoula. Some dining spots to try include:

• The Keep – For a sophisticated yet unpretentious fine dining experience, try The Keep. The dishes are familiar such as the duck breast and ribeye, but executed to perfection and the wine list can perfectly complement your meal. It’s not just the food that’s excellent, as you would expect, the service is everything you would want.
• Ragheef Arabic Flatbread and Kamoon Arabian Cuisine – Ragheef and Kamoon started as food trucks to serve the flavors of Arabia in Missoula. They also have a small restaurant that goes by two names at different hours. During the day, they serve flatbreads with toppings like meat, cheese, and vegetables. At night, Ragheef becomes Kamoon, serving shawarmas, baba ghanoush, and kebabs.
• Tamarack Brewing Company – This family business opened its doors in 2007 and brewed 380 barrels of beer in its first year. They continue to serve unique craft beers and delicious American cuisine to go with your drinks. The restaurant also holds fun activities and is often a hub for community events.
• Imagine Nation Brewing and Garden City Taqueria – This microbrewery serves craft beers, hard seltzer, and homemade kombucha. The space also doubles as a location for community workshops and events. Plus, stationed right outside the brewery is the Garden City Taqueria food truck serving tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

Shopping

Being a large enough city, shopping poses no real difficulty for residents and there are some wonderful places to spend the day or simply go to to pick up your necessary supplies.

• Southgate Mall – This is the largest shopping center in the city and features a wide range of national and local retailers.
• Downtown Missoula – If you prefer to shop at boutiques and specialty shops, then downtown Missoula is the place to go. It’s home to numerous local stores and art galleries. And don’t miss the “Hip Strip” on Higgins Avenue, a local favorite.
• Farmer’s Markets – One of the favorite shopping events for locals is the farmers’ markets, especially during the summer and fall months. The Clark Fork Market and the Missoula Farmers’ Market are great places to buy crafts, fresh produce, and artisanal products.

Discover Missoula with West Montana Homes

With its historic charm, beautiful natural surroundings, and thriving community, the city of Missoula could be the perfect place for you. If you want to learn more about this city, or even explore your real estate options, contact the expert agents at West Montana Homes.

West Montana Homes is a brokerage specializing in West Montana real estate with extensive knowledge in the area. The team utilizes innovative techniques and provides excellent communication and customer service. We can help you find your new home in this beautiful outdoor community.

Find the best homes for sale in Missoula, MT, today by contacting us at 406.777.0710 or send us a message here and we’ll get right back to you.