c.1930 Tiny Creek-side Log Cabin in Montana $55,000

Pros of Living in Highwood, MT

Low Cost of Living & Affordable Housing

• The cost of living in Highwood is noticeably lower than both the Montana and U.S. averages, especially for housing. Housing expenses tend to be more affordable compared with many parts of the country.

Tight-Knitted, Rural Community

• With a very small population (around 200 people), Highwood offers a small-town, close community feel where neighbors often know one another and local life moves at a relaxed pace.

Small Community & Slow Pace

• Many people appreciate the unhurried, rural lifestyle, with a slower pace of life and less congestion than urban areas — appealing if you want quiet and space.

Good Schools by Some Measures

• Local schools in Highwood generally receive positive reviews compared with state averages, adding to family-friendly appeal.

Proximity to Great Falls

• Being about a half-hour drive from Great Falls means you can access larger city amenities (jobs, medical care, shopping) while living rurally.

Cons of Living in Highwood, MT

Limited Local Amenities & Services

• Highwood itself has very few local businesses or services — shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and healthcare are minimal in town and require driving to Great Falls or other nearby communities.

Small Population & Limited Growth

• The town’s tiny population means fewer opportunities for economic activity, community events, and new services compared with more populated towns. Population changes over time can also affect local vibrancy.

Economy & Job Options Are Limited

• Local employment options within Highwood itself are scarce; many residents commute or work in sectors like small-business retail, education, or agriculture in the broader region.

Car-Dependent & Sparse Transit

• There’s no public transportation and most errands or commutes require a car, which is typical for rural Montana but worth noting if you aren’t car-dependent.

Crime Data Varies by Source

• Some crime estimates suggest higher crime rates compared with national averages, though these figures can be skewed by reporting in very small populations and may not reflect everyday experience.

Limited Diversity

• The population is not very diverse demographically, and some people may find the cultural and social options more limited than in larger or more varied communities.