Let the numbers do the talking.
Great Falls, MT vs Polson, MT
Great Falls, MT vs Polson, MT: What the data shows
Great Falls, MT is in Great Falls, MT while Polson, MT is in Polson, MT — both in the same state. On home prices, Great Falls, MT is the more affordable option at $186,300 median — $171,300 less than Polson, MT's $357,600. WYLT rates Great Falls, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Polson, MT as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Great Falls, MT has the stronger safety profile of the two. Great Falls, MT has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Polson, MT has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Great Falls, MT has Low flood risk and Polson, MT has Low flood risk.
Great Falls, MT is the more walkable neighborhood. Great Falls, MT scores 18/100 (car-dependent) versus Polson, MT's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Polson, MT has the higher school rating — Great Falls, MT rates 6.9/10 and Polson, MT rates 7/10.
| Category | Great Falls, MT | Polson, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $186K ✓ Lower price | $358K |
| Median Rent | $766 ✓ Lower rent | $882 |
| Median Income | $48K | $57K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 18/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | retireesnature_loversbudget_homeowners | Retirees looking for lakefront livingFamilies wanting a quiet environment with decent schoolsOutdoor enthusiasts |
Bottom line
If you're a retiree or someone looking for a very quiet, budget-friendly life, Great Falls might be a better fit due to its lower cost of living and affordable housing. For families who value a close-to-nature lifestyle but are willing to prioritize driving and higher housing costs, Polson is a slightly better choice due to its decent schools and lakefront living. Ultimately, consider what matters most to you.
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