Montana Mortgage Calculator
Median home prices, property taxes, and monthly payment estimates for Montana homeowners.
Montana at a Glance
- Median Home Price
- $415,000
- Property Tax Rate
- 0.79%
- Median Household Income
- $64,055
- Annual Property Tax
- $3,279
Sources: Zillow ZHVI (2024), Tax Foundation (2023), US Census ACS (2023)
Monthly Mortgage Payment in Montana
Based on the Montana median home price of $415,000 at 6.7% interest (30-year fixed):
| Payment Breakdown | 20% Down | 5% Down |
|---|---|---|
| Loan Amount | $332,000 | $394,250 |
| Principal and Interest | $2,142 | $2,544 |
| Property Tax (MT) | $273 | $273 |
| Homeowners Insurance | $125 | $125 |
| PMI | $0 | $164 |
| Total Monthly | $2,541 | $3,106 |
How Much House Can You Afford in Montana?
Using the 28/36 rule (housing costs under 28% of gross income):
- With 20% down, you need ~$108,880/year to afford Montana's median home
- With 5% down, you need ~$133,135/year
- Montana's median household income is $64,055
Montana insight: Montana's property tax rate of 0.79% is near the national average.
Montana Housing Market Overview
Montana's housing market has exploded as remote workers and retirees move in. The statewide median of $415,000 reflects Bozeman at $585,000, Missoula $520,000, and Billings $360,000. Inventory is critically low at 1.9 months. The median household income of $64,055 yields a price-to-income ratio of 6.5—severe affordability strain. The effective property tax rate of 0.79% is moderate, but high prices push annual taxes to $3,279 on a median home. Montana restricts municipal zoning, limiting density. Many locals are priced out of their own communities. Tourism and second-home buyers drive premiums in resort areas like Big Sky and Whitefish.
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Montana
The Montana Board of Housing (MBOH) offers the Bond Advantage Down Payment Assistance Program, providing up to $15,000 as a 15-year amortizing second mortgage at a below-market rate. The 80% Combined Program pairs a first mortgage at 80% LTV with a second mortgage covering the remaining 20%, eliminating PMI. MBOH also administers the Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) program, providing a 20% federal tax credit on mortgage interest. The Montana Housing Fund provides grants up to $5,000 for eligible buyers in rural communities. Local programs include Missoula's Home Investment Partnerships program ($10,000 grants) and Bozeman's Workforce Housing Initiative. Income limits: Gallatin County caps at $88,000 for a two-person household; rural counties cap at $72,000.
Tips for Homebuyers in Montana
1) Montana's 0.79% property tax means ~$273/month on a median home—budget for this plus very high heating costs ($3,000–$5,000/year for propane in rural areas). 2) Wildfire risk is growing; always verify insurance availability before making an offer in forested areas. 3) Bozeman and Missoula are hyper-competitive—homes under $500,000 sell in under a week with multiple offers. 4) The best time to buy is late fall (October–November) when second-home buyers leave the market. 5) Septic systems and wells are standard outside city limits; budget $600 for well flow tests and septic inspections. 6) Radon is high across Montana; test every home and budget $1,000–$1,500 for mitigation systems.
Montana Mortgage FAQ
What is the median home price in Montana?
The median home price in Montana is approximately $415,000 as of 2024 (Zillow ZHVI). Your actual price will vary by city and neighborhood.
What is the property tax rate in Montana?
The effective property tax rate in Montana is approximately 0.79% (Tax Foundation). On a $415,000 home, that is about $3,279/year in property taxes.
How much income do I need to buy a home in Montana?
Using the 28/36 rule with 20% down at 6.7%, you would need about $108,880/year to afford the median Montana home at $415,000. With 5% down (including PMI), about $133,135.
What will my monthly mortgage payment be in Montana?
On Montana's median home price of $415,000 with 20% down at 6.7%, your total monthly payment (P and I plus tax plus insurance) is approximately $2,541. With 5% down including PMI, about $3,106.
Data sources: Zillow ZHVI typical home values (2024), Tax Foundation effective property tax rates (2023), US Census Bureau ACS median household income (2023). Mortgage rate assumption: 6.7% APR 30-year fixed. This is an estimate — use our calculator for personalized numbers.