Some towns in Montana might have you reconsidering your post-work paradise due to a few, let’s say, quirks.
Whether it’s the allure of relentless snow or the charm of limited healthcare, some spots are better suited for a survival reality show than your retirement plans.
Here’s a guide to the towns where you might need more than just a retirement fund to stay happy.
1. Shelby, Montana
Shelby is a small town near the Canadian border. It’s known for its extreme weather conditions. Winters are long and harsh in Shelby, making it tough for retirees who prefer milder climates.
The town has a limited number of activities suitable for seniors. There are few cultural events or recreational opportunities.
Healthcare facilities are also sparse, which is a crucial consideration for the aging population. Shelby’s remote location exacerbates this issue.
Why it’s on the list: The harsh winters and limited healthcare facilities make Shelby a challenging place for retirees.
2. Cut Bank, Montana
Cut Bank, dubbed the ‘Coldest Spot in the Nation,’ isn’t ideal for retirees looking for comfort. The town experiences severe winter weather that can be difficult to manage in older age.
It also struggles with economic challenges, with limited job opportunities and services. This can affect the quality of life for residents.
Public transport options are few, making it hard for those who no longer drive to get around easily.
Why it’s on the list: Extreme cold and lack of essential services place Cut Bank among the less desirable places for retirees.
3. Wolf Point, Montana
Wolf Point is in a remote part of Montana, which means access to comprehensive medical care is limited. This is a significant downside for retirees needing regular health services.
The town has a higher crime rate compared to other parts of Montana, which can be a concern for safety-conscious seniors.
Additionally, the local economy is not very robust, limiting shopping and leisure activities for residents.
Why it’s on the list: Limited healthcare and higher crime rates make Wolf Point a less appealing retirement destination.
4. Harlem, Montana
Harlem is known for its lack of healthcare facilities. For retirees, having accessible and quality healthcare is a priority, and Harlem falls short in this area.
The town also experiences high winds and severe weather conditions, which can be a deterrent for those seeking a peaceful retirement setting.
Educational and cultural opportunities are minimal, which might not appeal to those who seek active, engaging retirement years.
Why it’s on the list: Inadequate healthcare services and harsh living conditions contribute to Harlem’s ranking.
5. Deer Lodge, Montana
Deer Lodge, despite its scenic views, has a significant drawback: the presence of a major correctional facility. This can be a turn-off for potential retirees looking for a tranquil environment.
The town also has limited medical services, which poses a challenge for seniors needing specialized care.
Moreover, the local economy is not very dynamic, offering few opportunities for part-time work or volunteering, which many retirees enjoy.
Why it’s on the list: The proximity to a correctional facility and limited medical services make it less attractive for retirees.
6. Glasgow, Montana
Glasgow faces challenges such as isolation and a small population. This isolation means fewer social interaction opportunities for retirees, which is crucial for a healthy retirement life.
The town also has limited healthcare resources, a major concern for those in retirement who need regular medical care.
Moreover, the local amenities are minimal, with few recreational activities or shopping options available.
Why it’s on the list: Isolation and limited healthcare and amenities make Glasgow less ideal for retirees.
7. Anaconda, Montana
Anaconda has a history of mining activity that has left some environmental issues, potentially affecting residents’ health. This historical backdrop can be concerning for retirees looking for a clean, safe environment.
The town’s economy is still recovering from the decline of the mining industry, leading to fewer amenities and services.
Transportation options are also limited, making it difficult for those who cannot drive to navigate the town.
Why it’s on the list: Environmental concerns and economic struggles place Anaconda on this list.
8. Chinook, Montana
Chinook is another small town where severe weather can be a significant barrier for retirees. The winters are particularly tough, with heavy snowfall and biting cold temperatures.
The town lacks in entertainment and leisure activities, which are vital for a fulfilling retirement.
Medical facilities are not up to the mark, adding another layer of difficulty for the elderly who may need frequent medical attention.
Why it’s on the list: Harsh winters and inadequate healthcare and leisure facilities make Chinook a tough place for retirement.
9. Sidney, Montana
Sidney’s proximity to oil fields can lead to increased pollution and traffic, which are not ideal for retirees seeking a quiet and clean environment.
The town has seen fluctuating economic conditions due to the oil industry, impacting stability and services.
Additionally, Sidney has limited cultural and social activities suitable for retirees, which can lead to a less engaging life post-retirement.
Why it’s on the list: Environmental and economic instabilities due to nearby oil fields make Sidney a less desirable retirement spot.
10. Forsyth, Montana
Forsyth struggles with access to high-quality healthcare, a significant factor for retirees. The town is small and services are limited, impacting residents’ health options.
It also has limited options for social engagement and cultural activities, essential for a vibrant retirement community.
The town is somewhat isolated, making travel and access to larger urban centers challenging for retirees who might seek occasional city amenities.
Why it’s on the list: Poor healthcare and limited social and cultural activities contribute to Forsyth’s position on this list.
11. Townsend, Montana
Townsend may offer beautiful views of Canyon Ferry Lake, but it has drawbacks for retirees. The town lacks substantial medical facilities, which is a concern for those needing regular healthcare.
Additionally, Townsend is somewhat isolated, which means fewer social and cultural opportunities for active retirees.
While it does offer outdoor activities, the limited daily conveniences can be a problem for those without family nearby.
Why it’s on the list: Limited healthcare and isolation make Townsend less appealing for retirees.
12. Lewistown, Montana
Lewistown is centrally located in Montana, which might seem ideal, but it has its challenges. The town has limited healthcare options, which is a significant concern for retirees.
The climate can also be a deterrent, with long, cold winters and short summers.
Additionally, there are limited activities and services tailored to the needs of seniors, making it less desirable for those looking for an engaging retirement.
Why it’s on the list: Limited healthcare and suitable activities make Lewistown a challenging place for retirees.
13. Poplar, Montana
Poplar is another town with significant drawbacks for retirees. It suffers from a high crime rate, which is a major concern for seniors looking for a safe environment.
The town also struggles with poverty, which impacts the quality of services and amenities available.
Additionally, healthcare facilities are inadequate, posing risks to those who may require frequent medical attention.
Why it’s on the list: High crime rates and poor healthcare facilities place Poplar on this list.
14. Ronan, Montana
Ronan is located near the beautiful Mission Mountains, but the town has its challenges. It has a higher than average cost of living, which can strain retirees’ budgets.
Healthcare options in Ronan are limited, with few specialists or advanced medical services.
The town also lacks cultural and recreational activities that cater to the interests of retirees, limiting social engagement.
Why it’s on the list: High living costs and limited healthcare and social activities make Ronan a less desirable retirement spot.
15. Libby, Montana
Libby has been known for its environmental issues, particularly related to asbestos exposure, which is a serious concern for anyone, especially retirees.
The town’s recovery from these health issues continues, but the lingering effects can deter people looking for a healthy retirement location.
Libby also offers limited economic opportunities and healthcare services, adding to its challenges.
Why it’s on the list: Environmental health risks and limited amenities contribute to Libby’s negative aspects for retirees.
16. Colstrip, Montana
Colstrip, known for its coal-powered energy plants, faces environmental concerns that might be unattractive to retirees looking for clean air and a pristine environment.
The town’s economy is heavily dependent on the energy sector, leading to uncertainties as energy policies change.
Moreover, the community is small and offers limited social and healthcare services, which are crucial for retirees.
Why it’s on the list: Environmental concerns and economic dependency on the coal industry make Colstrip less appealing.
17. Baker, Montana
Baker, while offering a tight-knit community feel, is quite remote and lacks adequate healthcare facilities. This remoteness also limits access to diverse leisure and cultural activities.
The town experiences harsh weather conditions, with long, severe winters that can be challenging for the elderly.
Furthermore, Baker’s small size means fewer services and amenities are available, which can impact the quality of life for retirees.
Why it’s on the list: Remote location and harsh weather conditions make Baker a less ideal place for retirees.
18. Conrad, Montana
Conrad’s agricultural focus means it has a quiet, rural charm, but this can also mean limited access to comprehensive medical care and other essential services for retirees.
The town has a smaller population, which while fostering a close community, also means fewer activities and amenities designed for seniors.
Additionally, Conrad experiences some of the colder and more prolonged winter seasons in the region, which can be tough for retirees.
Why it’s on the list: Limited healthcare and harsh winters contribute to its placement on this list.
19. Scobey, Montana
Scobey is far removed from major cities and healthcare centers, which poses a significant challenge for retirees needing regular medical attention.
The town has limited employment and entertainment options, which can make retirement life less dynamic and engaging.
Additionally, the cost of living is relatively high compared to the services and amenities provided, which can deter potential retirees.
Why it’s on the list: Isolation and limited amenities make Scobey a challenging retirement choice.
20. Troy, Montana
Troy is nestled in a picturesque part of Montana but struggles with some key issues for retirees. The town has significant unemployment and poverty rates, impacting the quality of life and services.
It also lacks adequate healthcare facilities, crucial for retirees who often need frequent medical care.
Moreover, Troy is quite isolated, further limiting access to larger, more equipped urban areas.
Why it’s on the list: Economic challenges and inadequate healthcare make Troy less appealing for retirees.
Libby is a asbestos death town and continues to expose hundreds of people..family’s with children by selling libby as safe. This is a deadly lie.
Michael david crill asbestos life on Google is all about libby, please share
Basin, MT has two hundred people, a bar and a pizza joint. There is n Heathcare
Ronan is a great place to retire if you can afford it. Beautiful Mission Mountain range out your back door, drives in the country, Flathead Lake for fishing or leasure boat rides, gorgeous golf course, Arlee Powwow. Polson is 14 miles north with great shops and a casino. Missoula is less than an hour away with all of the shopping you can dream up. Head up north for skiing the snow capped mountains. Or, if you prefer; sit outside with a morning “cup of joe” or go out with an evening toddy. It’s Montana, land is expensive and always has been. But you get what you pay for!
I was born and raised in Troy and Libby and I have no asbestoses and nobody in my family does Troy is a beautiful town so is Libby. The medical part is in Libby some what but Kalispell is 2 hours away with great medical services. Love my town and the beauty it brings me I am almost 70 and really healthy for my age.