Living near Yellowstone National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm. Residents enjoy proximity to world-class wildlife viewing, geothermal features, and vast wilderness areas. However, this lifestyle comes with considerations such as higher living costs, limited amenities, and potential wildlife encounters. This guide explores the realities of residing in communities surrounding America’s first national park.
What Are the Real Estate Prices Near Yellowstone National Park?
Real estate prices near Yellowstone National Park vary depending on the specific location and property type. Here’s a breakdown of average prices per square foot in key areas:
Cody, Wyoming
- 3,360 sq ft home: $206/sq ft
- 2,157 sq ft home: $347/sq ft
- 1,008 sq ft home: $346/sq ft
West Yellowstone, Montana
- 1,990 sq ft home: $301/sq ft
- 973 sq ft home: $513/sq ft
Paradise Valley, Montana
- Average: $534/sq ft
- Range: $700,000 to $78.9 million
How Much Does It Cost to Live Near Yellowstone?
Living near Yellowstone National Park can be more expensive than in other rural areas due to its unique location and tourist appeal. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
- Housing:
- Cody, WY: $700,000 – $1 million
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West Yellowstone, MT: $500,000 – $1 million+
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Utilities: $150 – $300 per month
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Groceries: $800 – $1,200 per month
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Transportation: $500 – $1,000 per month
What Amenities Are Available Near Yellowstone?
Despite the rural setting, communities near Yellowstone offer various amenities:
Grocery Stores
- Cody, WY: Albertsons, Smith’s Food and Drug
- West Yellowstone, MT: Canyon Street Market, West Yellowstone IGA
Healthcare Facilities
- Cody Regional Health (Cody, WY)
- Limited facilities in West Yellowstone, MT (larger hospitals in Bozeman)
Recreational Activities
- Hiking, fishing, skiing
- Natural hot springs (Paradise Valley)
- Wildlife viewing
Public Services
- Schools, libraries, community centers (limited compared to larger cities)
What Are the Educational Options Near Yellowstone?
Education near Yellowstone National Park is primarily focused on public schools, with limited options for private or specialized education:
Cody, Wyoming
- Cody High School
- Rating: 7/10 (GreatSchools.org)
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Enrollment: ~700 students
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Cody Middle School
- Rating: 6/10 (GreatSchools.org)
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Enrollment: ~500 students
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Elementary Schools
- Eastside Elementary
- Sunset Elementary
West Yellowstone, Montana
- West Yellowstone School
- K-12 school
- Rating: 6/10 (GreatSchools.org)
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Enrollment: ~100 students
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Hebgen Lake Elementary
- Located just outside West Yellowstone
How Does Wildlife Affect Daily Life Near Yellowstone?
Living near Yellowstone means coexisting with diverse wildlife:
- Common Encounters:
- Elk, deer, bison
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Occasional bears and wolves
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Safety Precautions:
- Bear-proof trash cans
- Wildlife-aware landscaping
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Cautious driving, especially at dawn and dusk
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Benefits:
- Unique wildlife viewing opportunities
- Rich biodiversity in your backyard
What Job Opportunities Exist Near Yellowstone?
Employment near Yellowstone often revolves around tourism and related industries:
- Tourism Sector:
- Hotels, restaurants, tour guides
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Seasonal fluctuations
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National Park Service:
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Rangers, researchers, administrative roles
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Local Businesses:
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Retail, services, outdoor equipment shops
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Remote Work:
- Increasing opportunities due to improved internet connectivity
How Does Seasonality Impact Life Near Yellowstone?
Living near Yellowstone means adapting to distinct seasonal changes:
Summer (June – August)
- Peak tourist season
- Increased traffic and crowds
- Higher prices for goods and services
Winter (December – February)
- Limited park access
- Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing opportunities
- Potential for extreme cold and heavy snowfall
Shoulder Seasons (Spring and Fall)
- Quieter, with fewer tourists
- Wildlife migrations
- Variable weather conditions
What Are the Pros and Cons of Living Near Yellowstone?
Pros:
- Access to world-class natural beauty
- Outdoor recreation opportunities
- Small-town community feel
- Unique wildlife experiences
Cons:
- Higher cost of living
- Limited job opportunities outside tourism
- Harsh winters and potential natural hazards
- Distance from major urban centers and amenities
Living near Yellowstone National Park offers a unique lifestyle that balances natural wonders with the challenges of rural living. While it may not be for everyone, those who embrace the area’s beauty and adapt to its rhythms can find a deeply rewarding home in one of America’s most iconic landscapes.