There is growing speculation that Paramount Network’s “Yellowstone” is driving more and more people to move to Montana.
“Yellowstone” follows the Dutton family, who control the largest contiguous ranch in the U.S. Kevin Costner, who’s also an executive producer of the series, plays the fifth-generation rancher John Dutton.
Fans of the show on Twitter have been expressing their desires to move to the Western state:
“I’ve watched one episode of Yellowstone and it’s official. I’m moving to Montana.”
“After watching Yellowstone, I’m moving to Montana and marrying a cowboy and never looking back.”
“It’s decided – I’m moving to Montana #Yellowstone.”
“Bye, DC. I’m moving to Montana. #Yellowstone.”
“I’ve been watching Yellowstone. Thinking about moving to Montana. Good old American values and sensible people.”
There’s a reason people travel from all over the world to visit Montana – it’s beautiful. “Big Sky Country” is ranked as one of the most beautiful places to live by many lists. “Yellowstone” perfectly showcases the state’s landscape, from rolling grasslands to the craggy mountains.
Several of the country’s most famous national parks reside in Montana. Some other natural wonders include the Lewis and Clark Caverns, the Beartooth Mountains, the Yellowstone River, Grinnell Glacier, the Missouri River and the Badlands of Makoshika State Park.
Fans of “Yellowstone” are citing the show for opening their eyes to the adventurous lifestyle that comes with living in Montana. Activities found there include fly fishing, ice climbing, horseback riding, snow shoeing, camping, golfing, rock climbing, hunting, skiing, snowboarding, whitewater rafting, swimming, dog sledding, mountain biking, hiking, biking and more.
Journalist Kathleen McLaughlin put the rugged beauty of Montana on display recently, sharing a photo on Twitter of her hiking in the tamaracks.
COVID-19 causing influx of people
It’s not just the show “Yellowstone” that’s driving people to move to Montana. Real estate agents are saying people are more interested in moving there because they want to escape the COVID-19 pandemic. With the state reopened, real estate agents say they’re seeing an increase in interest from out-of-state buyers.
“People are looking for that space, the beauty of Montana, and lest congestion.” Missoula Organization or Realtors President DJ Smith told KRTV.com. “They were already deciding to come to Montana, or other surrounding areas, and this was just an accelerant of their plans.”
According to homesnacks.com, these are the 10 fastest growing cities in Montana for 2020 based upon the most recent census data:
- Sidney
- Bozeman
- Kalispell
- Whitefish
- Belgrade
- Columbia Falls
- Helena
- Missoula
- Billings
- Glendive
More than just natural beauty
For those considering a move to Montana, the state offers much more than just natural beauty and rich history.
For instance, property taxes in Montana are lower than the national average. According to Wallethub, Montana is ranked 20th out of 50 states in that category. Additionally, Montana’s effective real estate tax rate of .85 percent is also lower than the national average.
With its abundance of wildlife and farms, the state offers some of the most unique food in the country. A few popular Montana foods includes huckleberries, bison, trout, flathead cherries, elk, pastured beef and lamb as well as a number of fresh, homegrown fruits and vegetables.
In the same fashion, Montana has a robust job market and a healthy economy. As a result, according to the state’s official website, “Montana has the 8th fastest GDP growth among states over the last five years and ten years.”
Residents also enjoy a healthy lifestyle. Fresh air, healthy food, and physical activities have all contributed to the Treasure State’s healthy habits. According to the State of Obesity, Montana has the sixth lowest adult obesity rate in the nation and the ninth lowest obesity rate for youth.
CNBC ranked Montana as tenth for overall well-being. The network stated that places with “high rates of purpose, social, financial, community and physical well-being – tend to live happier, healthier lives.”
