Let the numbers do the talking.
Great Falls, MT vs Kalispell, MT
Great Falls, MT vs Kalispell, MT: What the data shows
Great Falls, MT is in Great Falls, MT while Kalispell, MT is in Kalispell, MT — both in the same state. On home prices, Great Falls, MT is the more affordable option at $186,300 median — $185,300 less than Kalispell, MT's $371,600. WYLT rates Great Falls, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Kalispell, MT as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Great Falls, MT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Great Falls, MT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Kalispell, MT has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Great Falls, MT has Low flood risk and Kalispell, MT has Low flood risk.
Kalispell, MT is the more walkable neighborhood. Great Falls, MT scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Kalispell, MT's 51/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Great Falls, MT rates 6.9/10 and Kalispell, MT rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Great Falls, MT | Kalispell, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $186K ✓ Lower price | $372K |
| Median Rent | $766 ✓ Lower rent | $986 |
| Median Income | $48K | $68K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 | 51/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 10/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | retireesnature_loversbudget_homeowners | FamiliesOutdoor enthusiastsRetirees |
Bottom line
If budget and affordability are your top priorities, Great Falls might be the better fit – its low mortgage costs and lower median home price make it easier to own a home. However, if you're willing to pay more for a town with a slightly better balance of affordability and amenities, Kalispell is the safer bet. Ultimately, both towns have their trade-offs, but Great Falls leans towards retirees and those seeking a very low-cost lifestyle. Kalispell is a more well-rounded option with better access to amenities, making it suitable for families, commuters, and those who value a strong small-town economy.
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