Surrounded by mountains and in proximity to the Yellowstone River, Livingston has a population of 8,900, according to the United States Census Bureau, with a burgeoning arts scene east of Bozeman in the windswept Paradise Valley. “Bozeman was growing so quickly, and there was traffic, and if you wanted to live in a small town, it just wasn’t that anymore,” says Chip Njaa, a local broker and Realtor with Keller Williams Montana Realty, about why he made the move from Bozeman to Livingston in 2006. “Our town hasn’t grown at the same rate and has that small-town character. It tickles clients when I take them to lunch, and I’m saying 'Hi!' to everyone I encounter because I know them by name, and they know me. They think that’s novel and cool.”
In the 1880s, the Northern Pacific Railroad’s locomotive repair shops brought jobs to the area and fueled the economy. When the last shop shut down in the 1980s, hospitality and tourism emerged as the area’s leading industries.
Visitors to Yellowstone Park find a charming historical Livingston on the way.
Livingston offers the splendor of the surrounding mountains and the Yellowstone River.
A Livingston couple walk their dog along the Yellowstone River.
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From railroad depot to artistic downtown
Downtown Livingston, along Main Street, reflects the community’s railroad town roots. Buildings, such as the railroad depot, have remained intact since the 1800s. The Western-themed Murray Hotel has a history that dates to the early 1900s. Additional historic buildings were converted into restaurants and shops, such as bookstores and boutiques. Galleries, theaters and the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts are also downtown. along the highways are national grocery chains and fast-food chains.
The Murray Hotel in Livingston was built in 1904 for passengers of the Northern Pacific Railway.
A visiting couple enjoy the artwork at Medicine Bird Gallery in Livingston.
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Historic homes, new traditionals and modern condos
The railroad tracks divide gridded streets into northern developments with new traditional and southern houses that predate 1950. The Alphabet streets south of the tracks are minimal traditional houses and bungalows. “Newer subdivisions are northwest [of the railroad tracks] and radiate out into different subdivisions and have different covenants, but most parts in the center have city ordinances and no covenants,” Njaa says. “South numbered streets have larger Victorian-style and historic homes, and they’ve been purchased and renovated.”
The median home price is $585,000, about 45% higher than the national average. Condos and townhouses vary as units converted from factories to modern complexes erected post-2020, and prices range from $255,000 to $895,000, depending on size and location.
Livingston has added to the city population with newly built homes.
Most of the Victorian homes in Livingston have been restored to their former glory.
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Drift boating, fly fishing and rodeos
The Yellowstone Gateway Museum spotlights Livingston’s role in the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Sacajawea Park hosts the Livingston Farmers Market on the river from June to September. Livingston Roundup Rodeo holds events throughout the year, including the Livingston Roundup PRCA Rodeo during the town’s four-day Fourth of July celebration.
“Yellowstone River flows here and goes up Paradise Valley, so we have fly fishing and rafting, drift boats, hundreds of thousands of acres of natural forest, all this land to recreate in,” Njaa says. “It’s easy to take the natural beauty of this place for granted. I’ll post videos walking my dog, and it’s like a Walt Disney movie where I’m on the side of the mountains, and people will ask, ‘Where do you live?’” The riverbank is also home to the Livingston Golf & Country Club and the Livingston Civic Center.
Following stints of heavy rainfall, the river may be susceptible to flooding, which can impact the parks and nearby properties.
A statue of Sacajawea is the main attraction at the park in Livingston.
Stop by the Yellowstone Gateway Museum to learn more about the history of Livingston.
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Learning in Livingston and at Montana State University
The Livingston School District serves the community. The Livingston Elementary School District earns a C-plus grade from Niche, and Park High School receives a B-minus. High schoolers must complete 40 hours of community service to graduate and can take two Dual Enrollment courses for potential college credit for free. About 30 miles west, in Bozeman, Montana State University is a public institution, the largest research entity in Montana, with over 250 academic programs.
Sleeping Giant Middle School offers sport activities to Livingston students.
A ranger sculpture outside the entrance to Park High School greets Livingston students.
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Decreasing property crime and violent crime fluctuations
Property crimes continue to decrease in Livingston. In fact, from 2022 to 2023, figures dropped by nearly 10%, according to the Livingston Montana Police Department’s 2023 Annual Report. Violent crime figures have fluctuated since 2018. Over the same span, the police department reported a rise of about 7%; however, the year prior, it decreased by nearly 24%.
Interstate 90 and the highway to Yellowstone
Interstate 90 runs west, about 25 miles, connecting Livingston to Bozeman. The Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is an additional 10 miles west on I-90 and provides direct domestic flights to 20 cities. U.S. Highway 89 travels south, tying the city to Yellowstone National Park in about 130 miles.
Written By
Lauren Melton
Photography Contributed By
Mark Huddleston
Video By
Charlie Lingner
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Pam McCutcheon,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Livingston, MT sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Livingston, MT over the last 12 months is $525,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this well cared for split-level ranch style home nestled in one of Livingston's most sought-after neighborhoods. Boasting 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this residence offers ample space for comfortable living. Upon entering, you're greeted by an inviting open floor plan with raised ceiling, creating an airy ambiance perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing with the family. The main
Located in one of Livingston’s most desirable neighborhoods, this custom 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers stunning views of Livingston Peak and a convenient location near downtown, schools, and outdoor recreation.Inside, you'll find vaulted knotty pine ceilings, two spacious living areas, and a Tulikivi wood stove for efficient, cozy heat. The kitchen features granite and butcher block countertops
Privacy and comfort can be yours with this stunning property. Flowers everywhere and a carpet of manicured grass greet as you walk into this well-situated property. Setback on the lot in a parklike setting, this home is spacious and welcoming, day or night. Enjoy the summer evenings under the stars or Gazebo--this is a place to unwind and enjoy. Close to schools, shopping, parks and the
Now open, the Yellowstone Granary is an adaptive reuse apartment building that is built for longevity and timelessness. The existing structure, built of 8x8 heavy timber posts and beams and a 2x8 solid cribbing wall (where grain was held), has been reinforced with steel and completely restored. The existing 2x3 wood plank flooring has been left exposed for the ceilings to highlight the history
Property Id: 1942901Perfect downtown Livingston location! This nicely appointed single unfurnished family home is available for rent July 1st- month to month. Original hardwood floors, two levels of spacious living including a large green grass fully fenced yard! Dedicated driveway parking.Main level has enclosed porch, gorgeous living room, dining room, office space & full
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