RELOCATION INFORMATION
If your leisure time in Big Sky inspired you to make the jump to a lifetime in Big Sky, then here are some things that can help with that transition. Life in the mountains can be a bit daunting, but having this playground at your fingertips can make it all worthwhile—you have to know what you’re in for.
Big Sky is a resort community, and that means that you’ll have quick and easy access to trails, but it can be expensive. You will have to commit to an hour-long drive down the canyon to Bozeman for your bigger life essentials, such as large grocery stores, heavy car maintenance, and specialty medical care. An option that a good portion of the workforce chooses, whether to be closer to amenities or for cheaper rent, is to live in Bozeman and commute to work in Big Sky. A bus connects the communities and a carpool matching service (GoGallatin) for those looking for driving alternatives.
We say that community is a verb, not a noun. There are real challenges to living in the mountains, but we’re an engaged community, and if you want to embrace our more rugged lifestyle, then welcome home!
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Now that you’re here and excited to get started with your plans in Big Sky, get oriented with the necessities. Knowing where the staples of each town are, such as grocery stores, gas stations, banks, and more, is key to a successful, smooth trip. Here are some helpful locations to know around town.
EDUCATION
Lone Peak High School, which opened in 2009, has a strong record of academic achievement, including a robust university acceptance list. In 2020, the community of Big Sky voted to upgrade and expand facilities for the Big Sky School District. The school district bond included a new track and turf field, parking lot, STEM lab, and gym.
WEATHER
Big Sky summers are short and mild, with blue skies and temperatures typically in the 70s —but evening temperatures drop low, so prepare with extra layers. It’s typical to experience all four seasons in just one day. Winters can be cold, with many days, well below zero degrees, and a lot of snowfall from October to April. Big Sky’s shortest day of the year is less than nine hours, and the longest is more than 15 hours—ideal for full-day adventures.
HOUSING
Big Sky faces growth issues: at the end of 2021, the average cost to purchase a non-luxury home was $1,157,457. This has led Big Sky workers to live outside the community and commute in. Big Sky Community Housing Trust is working towards solutions, including deed-restricted apartments, incentivizing homeowners to rent long-term, and helping to preserve the existing housing inventory.
