In 2024, Montana ranks among the least “sticky” states, with only 13% of relocating residents staying in-state — far below the national average of 26%.

Montana’s real estate market booms have outpaced local incomes. Since 2020, home values have surged 60%, pricing out many long-time residents. Despite attracting newcomers, high housing costs and a rural economy have forced 87% of Montana’s movers to seek more affordable living options out of state.

Additional points:

• Montana’s home affordability is becoming an impossibility. The state’s average home price has surged to $470k, well above the national median of $362,481 (Zillow). In fact, a recent study from Bankrate found that Montana residents experienced the biggest increase in income required to afford a typical home, up 77.7% since 2020.
• Despite Montana’s low stickiness, the state is still seeing an influx of new residents — which may continue to cause home prices to climb and drive moves out. 8 of the 10 least sticky states have higher numbers of moves into the state than out.
• The West is home to 7 of the 10 least sticky states in 2024: