Let the numbers do the talking.
Bozeman, MT vs Butte, MT
Bozeman, MT vs Butte, MT: What the data shows
Bozeman, MT is in Bozeman, MT while Butte, MT is in Butte, MT — both in the same state. On home prices, Butte, MT is the more affordable option at $191,500 median — $501,000 less than Bozeman, MT's $692,500. WYLT rates Bozeman, MT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Butte, MT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Butte, MT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bozeman, MT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Butte, MT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Bozeman, MT has Low flood risk and Butte, MT has Low flood risk.
Bozeman, MT is the more walkable neighborhood. Bozeman, MT scores 11/100 (car-dependent) versus Butte, MT's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Bozeman, MT has the higher school rating — Bozeman, MT rates 7.9/10 and Butte, MT rates 6/10.
| Category | Bozeman, MT | Butte, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $693K | $192K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $794 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $77K ✓ Higher income | $56K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 32/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 15 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good (can be poor during wildfire season) | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 6/10 |
| Best for | Outdoor enthusiastsYoung familiesRemote workers with reliable internet | Families looking for affordable, safe neighborhoodsRetirees who want a quiet lifestyleBudget‑conscious buyers |
Bottom line
If you prioritize affordability and a quiet lifestyle, Butte might be a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you value top-rated schools, endless outdoor recreation, and are willing to stretch your budget, Bozeman is worth considering.
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