What Makes Bozeman Montana A Retirees Dream

Many couples flock to the warm beaches of Florida for their retirement years, but for lovers of the mountains, there's another place that stands out above all others: Bozeman, Montana.

Located in the northern reaches of the United States, Bozeman offers some of the most beautiful sights and scenic views in the entire country. For those who prefer the cool mountains over a hot beach, Bozeman is one of the top choices available.

The city's intelligent and culture-filled community, high quality of life, and beautiful scenery, make the city a retirement destination that's hard to beat.

According to Sperling's Best Places, median home prices in Bozeman during the last year were $293,600. And although Bozeman has an above average cost of living, much of it is offset by senior discounts, according to the U.S. News & World Report's list of "10 Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirees".

So are you ready to visit the city yet, and start looking for those "For Sale By Owner" signs?

If not, then read on. Below are all of the reasons why new retirees should consider relocating to Bozeman, and why it is a retiree's dream.

1. You're Surrounded By Beauty

The city of Bozeman is located at 4,820 feet elevation and is nestled between several large mountains and rivers. In a matter of minutes, residents can find themselves among beautiful scenery while escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Almost 30% of the land in Montana is owned by the government and open to the public, meaning that 30 million acres of wilderness in the state is open for residents to discover and enjoy.

2. Access to National Parks

As though the city's surrounding wilderness wasn't enough, Bozeman also offers easy access to some of the greatest national parks in the United States. The wildlife-filled and sight-filled Yellowstone National Park is located just 90 miles south of Bozeman, while the beautiful alpine lakes and glaciers of Glacier National Park is located about 5 hours north of the city.

3. Great Outdoor Activities

With all of these natural wonders in Bozeman, it's no surprise that Bozeman is the perfect destination for residents looking to stay active in their retirement. The mountains offer great trails for hiking or biking and the area is great for hunting and fishing.

Ski resorts such as the Big Sky Resort also populate the area and have helped earn Bozeman a reputation for being a top ski destination. The area even includes a non-profit ski area called the Bridger Bowl which features expert level ski slopes not easily found in other areas.

4. A Thriving College-Town

According to Sperling's Best Places, the city has grown over 90 percent in population since 2000, and it's no wonder why. Bozeman boasts an intellectual community and an impressive cultural scene. Montana State University has an influential presence in the community and helps to keep the city bustling with activity.

5. A Growing Economy and Tech-Hub

Thanks to a growing tech industry, Bozeman has a low unemployment rate that continues to decrease and an economy which continues to improve. A center for the large tech firm, Oracle Corporation, operates in Bozeman, and provides numerous high-paying jobs to the region. The tech community in the area continues to grow.

6. A Friendly and Growing Retirement Community

Many retirees have migrated to Bozeman over recent years, making the city great for those looking to live among their peers. Retired adults moving to Bozeman tend to favor active lifestyles, and a number of Meetups and groups exist to allow adults in retirement to come together and meet one another.