Amenities
The area boasts an ample array of local amenities, such as restaurants, entertainment options, grocery stores and parks, all conveniently located within walking distance.
Cost Of Living
The cost of living in this region is notably lower than the national average, encompassing everyday goods, housing, utilities, transportation and health care expenses.
Housing
High scores in the housing category are attributed to this area, possibly pointing to a favorable home affordability ratio, robust appreciation rates or elevated home values.
Health & Safety
Achieving a high health and safety score relies on factors including great air quality and convenient access to vital health facilities such as hospitals, doctors, clinics and police stations.
Crime
This area exhibits elevated crime rates per 100,000 residents, which may suggest it's a potentially unsafe place to reside. These rates encompass both property and violent crimes.
Ratings
Surveys and polls conducted by AreaVibes with residents of the area revealed unfavorable results concerning the walkability of amenities, the availability of parks and public transit access.
Great Falls is a medium-sized city located in the state of Montana. The city has a population of 58,717 inhabitants. At 86%, the majority of the Great Falls population is White; this is followed by 5% American Indian and Alaskan and 1% Black. If you prefer shorter commutes, living in Great Falls will be a delight. With an average one-way commute time of just 15 minutes, traveling to and from work is notably more convenient than the national average, which stands at 26 minutes.
Without the right tools, moving to any new area can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Great Falls, Montana could be a good experience for anyone who puts in the effort to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. The best areas in Great Falls and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from amenities, crime, commute, education, employment, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Montana and national averages.
Using data and statistics Great Falls has received a livability score of 77/100. This score is ranked in the 92nd percentile when compared to all other cities. Compared to the national average, Great Falls ranks among some of the best places to live in the country! Another exciting tidbit, is that Great Falls ranks better than 90% of all US cities! Based on the rankings for each individual category, Great Falls has received high marks for cost of living (A+) and housing (B+). On a more negative note, Great Falls does not have favorable grades for the following: crime (F). If we take a look at the data, we can find out why.
If you're living in Great Falls, you can expect to enjoy a multitude of local amenities, mostly thanks to the strategic placement of essential services such as grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, parks and various shops. If you're contemplating a move to this locale with the intent of establishing it as your permanent residence, you'll be pleased to find an extensive array of amenities and recreational opportunities within easy reach, either on foot or via a brief commute. This wealth of accessible amenities not only enhances the livability of the area but also ensures that you can enjoy a rich and fulfilling lifestyle, making Great Falls an attractive destination for those seeking a vibrant and well-served community to call home. Some of the more notable entertainment options include: Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, C.M. Russell Museum, and Gibson Park.
The unemployment rate in Great Falls has consistently declined over the years and currently stands well below the national average at 2.33%. This downward trend holds the potential to reduce poverty and inequality within the region, promote higher wage levels and stimulate greater economic growth. Such positive indicators signal the overall robust health of the local economy, offering a promising outlook for its residents and fostering an environment of financial well-being and prosperity.
For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Great Falls apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.
Certain items on your wish list like shopping, restaurants, nightlife, parks and proximity to public transportation are all important things to look for. Having said that, perhaps the most important metric to consider when contemplating a move to Great Falls is real estate affordability. The median home price for Great Falls homes is $181,500, which is 9.1% lower than the Montana average. If we take a closer look at the affordability of homes in Great Falls, we’ll see that the home price to income ratio is 3.6, which is 12.2% lower than the Montana average.
| Statistic | Great Falls | Montana | National |
| Average one way commute | 15min | 18min | 26min |
| Workers who drive to work | 81.8% | 75.1% | 76.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 9.3% | 10.2% | 9.3% |
| Workers who take public transit | 0.9% | 0.8% | 5.1% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.6% | 1.4% | 0.6% |
| Workers who walk | 2.0% | 5.1% | 2.8% |
| Working from home | 4.7% | 6.3% | 4.6% |
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