Small towns in Montana may be just the most endearing places in the country. Considering our biggest city would be considered mid-sized in most other places, small town living is the way the vast majority of Montanans spend their days. We celebrate our laid back rural towns here, and what these 12 lack in big city amenities they make up for in old-fashioned charm. So sit back, relax, and enjoy these absolutely charming rural towns in Montana.

1. Choteau
Choteau, MT 59422, USA
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
The Gateway to the Rocky Mountain Front is such an inviting place that David Letterman fell in love with it. But long before its late night TV shout-out, Montanans have known how great it is. Learn more about one of the sweetest rural areas in Montana, and then go visit!
2. Hobson
Hobson, MT 59452, USA
Don Barrett / Flickr
This tiny town of 215 people was named after S. S. Hobson, an early-day cowboy and rancher who lived between Hobson and Utica on the Judith River and later became a senator. The quiet community has museums, lots of outdoor recreation and plenty of wildlife, and it's also on the clever Montana Bale Trail. While you're visiting Hobson, be sure to stop by and try some of the best burgers and steaks in Montana.
3. Malta
Malta, MT 59538, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
If you're just passing through this quiet town in Phillips County, you might not think it has much to offer. But a trip through Bohn's Bones Art Gallery and a meal at the Stockman Bar & Steakhouse might change your mind. So check out one of the best farm towns in Montana and see all it has to offer.
4. Deer Lodge
Deer Lodge, MT 59722, USA
Jasperdo / Flickr
If you're interested in local history, a visit to Deer Lodge is a must. Between the Grant-Kohrs Ranch Historic Site and the Powell County Museum Complex, you'll have plenty to explore. So read more about one of the best small towns in Montana, and then put it on your bucket list.
5. Scobey
Scobey, MT 59263, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
The 1,051 people who call Scobey home are lucky people indeed. Aside from the special kind of community you can only find in a small town, you'll find just enough amenities here to stay busy and happy.
6. Stevensville
Stevensville, MT 59870, USA
Forest Service Northern Region / Flickr
Brimming with local history and surrounded by gorgeous mountains, Stevensville is a true gem. It's a mere 30 miles from Missoula, but you'll feel lightyears away from the big city. Learn more about one of the loveliest rural towns in Montana, and then go visit.

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7. Virginia City
Virginia City, MT 59729, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
Virginia City is a very tourist-friendly ghost town in Montana, but somehow that only adds to its appeal. If you visit in the off season, you'll avoid the crowds and feel like you've gone back in time.
8. Sheridan
Sheridan, MT 59749, USA
Spend A Day Touring, LLC / Flickr
Sheridan is known as the "heart of the Ruby Valley." With a history dating back to the 1850s, it has managed to retain some of its old-fashioned appeal.
9. Conrad
Conrad, MT 59425, USA
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
Due to its close proximity to the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Conrad sees some tourism now and then. But it's mainly a peaceful farming and ranching community, and the locals like it that way. When you visit, be sure to stop at one of the best drive-in ice cream shops in Montana.
10. Ennis
Ennis, MT 59729, USA
Steve Lyon / Flickr
Without a doubt, Ennis is one of the most picturesque places in Montana. The blue skies and mountainous background seem to extend infinitely when you're there. Read more about one of the most charming rural areas in Montana, and then go visit!
11. Terry
Terry, MT 59349, USA
Kurt Haubrich / Flickr
Rolling hills, the Yellowstone River and beautiful badlands make this small town an underrated gem. Life in Terry is lived at a nice, slow pace. The Terry Badlands are a must-see nearby Terry, so be sure to check those out when you visit.
12. Glendive
Glendive, MT 59330, USA
Andrew Filer / Flickr
If you've never had a reason to venture out to Glendive, you may assume you're not missing much. But the little city that borders Makoshika State Park has a lot to see and do, and it's actually quite pretty.

Aren’t these small towns in Montana amazing? Do you enjoy visiting, and living in, small towns? Here are 10 signs small town living in Montana is right for you.

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Jessica Bohl | July 20, 2022

What are some scenic towns in Montana?

There are some scenic towns in Montana that are truly breathtaking. The town of Troy is spectacular as it sits nestled between mountains and the Kootenai River, making for a picture-perfect vista. Lewiston is another scenic area, as it is where the mountains meet the plains. And for an amazing winter wonderland with awesome skiing, Whitefish absolutely must be on the list of scenic towns in Montana.

What are some charming downtowns in Montana?

Small towns with charming downtowns abound in Montana. One of the best downtowns is in Livingston. It’s historic structures remain unchanged and house a variety of shops and restaurants. If you want to feel like you’re in the Wild West, head to Livingston! Anaconda is another small town with a great downtown. It’s an old mining town tucked in the Deer Lodge National Forest. Main Street has some lovely historic buildings and many restaurants and shops. So check out these two towns today!

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