#8: Montana
Inbound moves: 46.4%
Outbound moves: 53.6%
Montana, known as Big Sky Country, offers a sanctuary of safety with its sparse population density and crime-resistant environments—making it an ideal haven for families. In 2021, family-related reasons were the second most common driver for moving to Montana, accounting for 34% of relocations. Mover Junction highlights the state’s property affordability and an overall low cost of living, encompassing groceries, health, housing, and transportation expenses, all below the national average.
Montana’s natural beauty is a standout, boasting diverse wildlife, awe-inspiring mountain and glacier vistas, and abundant natural resources like gold and sapphire. Outdoor enthusiasts find paradise in destinations like Yellowstone National Park. However, job opportunities have received mixed reviews, with Big Sky Fishing noting challenges in certain areas due to a decline in resource extraction jobs, dubbing the employment landscape as “rather dismal” for newcomers.