Montana housing costs at a glance
| Montana | |
|---|---|
| Median home value (Zillow) | $475,000 |
| Average effective property tax | 0.59% |
| Typical rate for a new buyer (calculator default) | 0.65% |
| Average homeowners insurance ($300k dwelling) | $2,664 a year |
| 2026 conforming loan limit (one unit) | $832,750 |
Example: median-priced home
Montana home for $475,000, 20% down, 6.5% 30-year fixed: principal and interest $2,402 + property tax $257 + insurance $222 = about $2,881 a month. Enter your own rate quote and the actual tax rate of the property for a precise figure.
Montana property tax
Montana taxes homes on a percentage of their market value, reappraised every two years. The average effective rate is about 0.59%. After sharp tax increases following the price boom, a 2025 law introduced a lower rate for primary residences than for second homes and short-term rentals; make sure the county records the home as your primary residence.
Other Montana costs
- No transfer tax: Montana does not tax real estate transfers and does not disclose sale prices.
- Insurance: about $2,660 a year on average, with hail and wildfire risk.
- Montana also has no general sales tax. See the Montana paycheck calculator.
Other states
See also the Montana paycheck calculator and mortgage costs in other states.
Frequently asked questions
What is the property tax rate in Montana?
About 0.59% of home value on average.
What is the monthly payment on a median-priced Montana home?
On a $475,000 home with 20% down at 6.5%, principal and interest are about $2,402; with property tax at 0.65% and average insurance the total is about $2,881 a month.
Does Montana have a transfer tax?
No. Montana has no real estate transfer tax.
Do primary residences pay less property tax in Montana?
Yes. A 2025 law set a lower tax rate for primary residences than for second homes and rentals.
For information only; not a loan offer. Property tax, insurance and closing costs depend on the specific property and lender.
Sources
- Montana Department of Revenue – property
- FHFA – 2026 conforming loan limits
- U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 – real estate taxes (via NAHB / Construction Coverage)
- Zillow Home Value Index
- Insurify – home insurance by state
Rules checked: October 2026