Whitefish is a humble ski resort town in Northwest Montana with just over 9,000 full-time residents. This small city lies within Flathead County, which has experienced the most population growth in Montana since 2020. Whitefish has warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters; it’s known for its deep blue Whitefish Lake, coniferous forests and mountain location, which provide a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The city protects the forests surrounding the lake to ensure a clean, naturally filtered water supply instead of constructing filtration plants.
Whitefish ski and snowboard opportunities are found at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Relax at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake after shredding the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
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Winter skiing and summer hiking in the Rocky Mountains
Whitefish Mountain Resort is an independent ski resort with over 100 trails. It has options for all skill levels, and lift tickets are free for children ages six and younger. The resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders in the winter, while its summer activities include mountain biking, hiking and huckleberry picking. “There aren’t resort discounts solely for being a local,” says Stephanie Skinner, an agent at Glacier Sotheby’s Whitefish/Big Mountain and full-time Whitefish resident since the mid-90s. Discounts belong to season pass holders, which include some perks for dining downtown: “Blackstar Brewpub gives $1 off for pass holders.”
For a day of picnicking or paddleboarding, City Beach offers a sandy lake shore and views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Whitefish Lake State Park has a beach for dogs, and parkgoers may spot deer while out fishing or kayaking. Locals can go shore fishing on Whitefish River or golfing at Whitefish Lake Golf Club. Whitefish is about 26 miles from Glacier National Park Headquarters, where cyclists, hikers and nature lovers can see the glaciers before they melt, which is projected to occur by 2030.
Enjoy majestic views from Whitefish City Beach over the ice in Winter or while sunbathing on the sandy shore in Summer.
Downtown dining options in Whitefish include Blackstar Brewpub which offers several levels of enjoyment and discounts for skiers.
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Living by Whitefish Lake, on the mountain slope or downtown
Most homes are primary residences, with some vacation properties mixed in. The median single-family home price is $1.2 million, significantly higher than the national median, and spacious, contemporary homes with lots of windows cost around $1 million; some have wooden exteriors, creating a log cabin feel. Mountain chalets on the lake sell for eight figures, while thousand-square-foot new constructions closer to downtown sell for as low as $390,000. Townhouses, condos and acreage are also on the market.
Whitefish residents enjoy contemporary homes with lots of windows to enjoy the views.
Mountain chalets in Whitefish offer more privacy when nestled into the forests and lake shores.
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Walking down Central Avenue
Downtown streets have sidewalks and street parking. Central Avenue has local shops, restaurants and the après ski scene. It is lined with Old Western-themed bars, grills and saloons, and stores selling specialty goods like snowboard gear. Some restaurants can be found along Wisconsin Avenue, which connects downtown to the ski resort. U.S. 93 has more shopping, including retailers for outdoor recreation supplies and gear.
Downtown Whitefish shops and eateries are found along Central Avenue.
Whitefish is known for old Western-themed bars, grills and saloons.
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Whitefish Winter Carnival and other community events
The city’s festivals and events celebrate the visual, performing and culinary arts. As for the biggest annual event, “It’s the Whitefish Winter Carnival, hands down,” Skinner says. “It lasts over a month and culminates in a big parade.” The carnival includes the Slopeside Selfie Scavenger Hunt, where participants can win free skis or a snowboard. Whitefish also hosts athletic events like the Glacier Challenge, which kicks off at City Beach and combines running, paddling and biking. Whitefish Trail Blazer is an annual weekend of running challenges ranging from 5k to 50k.
Taking the free seasonal bus around Whitefish
In the winter and summer, the S.N.O.W. bus offers a free daily service connecting downtown to the ski resort base. U.S. 93 starts at the center of town and extends 12 miles south toward Glacier Park International Airport, which offers daily flights to cities like Seattle and Denver. Amtrak trains go through Whitefish Depot. Emergency care at Logan Health—Whitefish and North Valley Hospital are located in Whitefish.
Whitefish skiers hop the Shuttle Network of Whitefish S.N.O.W. bus to and from town.
Whitefish visitors catch their flights nearby in Kalispell at Glacier Park International Airport.
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Top-rated public schools
Whitefish School District is rated A-minus on Niche. Whitefish High School, rated A-minus, has several state-championship-winning sports teams, including the girls’ cross-country team. Whitefish Performing Arts Center is located within Whitefish Middle School. It seats about 450 and offers a state-of-the-art venue for students and other performing groups like the Alpine Theatre Project.
City, county and state crime levels
Whitefish has a low overall crime score. According to the state of Montana, Flathead County’s violent crime counts increased from 2020 to 2022, then decreased from 2022 to 2023. Meanwhile, property crime counts fluctuated over the same period.
Written By
Laura Copan
Photography Contributed By
Luke George
Video By
Matt Pangman
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Susan Petersen,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Whitefish, MT sell after 142 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Whitefish, MT over the last 12 months is $956,105, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
TAKING RESERVATIONS! 1031 ELIGIBILITY, inquire for details. Ski-In/Ski-Out Powder Peak Chalets! Located just off Chair 2, the Powder Peak Chalets offer an exceptional blend of location, design, and unique features in one property. This middle unit with 3-bedroom +flex room, 3.5-bathroom, and 2524 SF offers direct ski lift access, an expansive outdoor deck with private hot tub, private entry, and
NIGHTLY/WEEKLY RENTALS APPROVED! 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offering 901 sq ft of comfortable living in the heart of world-class recreation. Enjoy fresh powder and pristine Nordic trails just minutes from Whitefish Mountain Resort, with Whitefish Lake access nearby for boating, waterskiing, fishing, swimming, and beach days. Glacier National Park is only a scenic 45-minute drive away, a proven
TAKING RESERVATIONS! 1031 ELIGIBILITY, inquire for details. Ski-In/Ski-Out Powder Peak Chalets! Located just off Chair 2, the Powder Peak Chalets offer an exceptional blend of location, design, and unique features in one property. This is a premium 5-story middle unit with 4-bedrooms +flex room, 4 full bathrooms, 2 half baths, and 3125 SF offers direct ski lift access, an expansive outdoor deck
Incredible Multifamily / STR investment opportunity in the heart of Whitefish! This readily buildable, level lot is ideally located at the end of a cul-de-sac with mature trees offering a sense of privacy while being close to all the area’s premier amenities. Zoned multifamily, the property is perfectly suited for short-term rentals, long-term income-producing units, or your own private getaway.
Discover a truly unique Montana retreat minutes from downtown Whitefish. Set on 4.56 private acres, this architecturally striking A-frame blends modern design with classic mountain charm. Featuring 5 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms, the home offers generous space for comfortable living & hosting. Step inside to soaring lines, stylish finishes & thoughtful details throughout. After a day on the slopes,
Welcome to the Alcoves—a bold new community redefining modern living in Whitefish and the Flathead Valley. It is thoughtfully designed for those who thrive in an active, contemporary Montana lifestyle and offers a smart and functional layout. The “Ultimate Garage” (Or Office-Gear Area-Home Gym-Bar-Man Cave-She shed, you name it!) spans an impressive 1,338 square feet, showcasing 15.5’ ceilings, a
Experience the ultimate mountain lifestyle with this stunning 3,836 sq. ft. townhome, ideally situated at Whitefish Mountain Resort with recent tasteful updates. Enjoy breathtaking ski resort views and easy access with ski-in/out convenience just steps off the Home Again ski run. The home offers 4 bedrooms, a bunk room, 3 living rooms, lockout basement suite and 2 fully-equipped kitchens-perfect
Discover this cozy turn-key waterfront condo on the crystal clear shores of Whitefish Lake, offering an unbeatable combination of convenience, comfort, & natural beauty. 600 feet of pristine lake frontage, a marina, & boat ramp, this property is a water enthusiast's dream. Relax & unwind w/exclusive access to an indoor pool, hot tub, & sauna conveniently located across the street. Comes fully
Last Available Unit! The Whitefish River Run condo community is a high-end development in the path of progress along the Whitefish River between Whitefish's vibrant downtown and the popular Whitefish Lake Golf Course. The shared water access on the river provides a rare opportunity for an owner of a downtown unit to have and enjoy a dock and firepit, maximizing our beloved long Whitefish summer
Welcome to 1396 Whitefish Village Drive in the highly coveted Whitefish Hills Village community. This updated and stunning 4 BR/4 BA home features 3,612 sq ft across 2 levels of immaculate and thoughtful design, situated on 2.12 landscaped and private acres. Offered with indoor and outdoor furnishings this home is move in ready. Upgraded Viking Appliances, top of the line Audio/Visual, full
Welcome to the Alcoves—a bold new community redefining modern living in Whitefish and the Flathead Valley. It is thoughtfully designed for those who thrive in an active, contemporary Montana lifestyle and offers a smart and functional layout. The “Ultimate Garage” (Or Office-Gear Area-Home Gym-Bar-Man Cave-She shed, you name it!) spans an impressive 1,338 square feet, showcasing 15.5’ ceilings, a
Adventure awaits just steps from your door in this top-floor Edelweiss condo, located in the heart of the upper village at Whitefish Mountain Resort—right next to Chair 1 and Chair 2 high-speed lifts. Whether you’re chasing fresh powder in winter or hiking and biking epic trails all summer, this is your launchpad for year-round adventure. Fully furnished and turnkey, this remodeled 699 sq. ft.
Brand new luxury home on 9+ park-like acres in the exclusive gated Whitefish Ridge community. Designed for refined Montana living, this 2025 reconstructed masterpiece is just 8 minutes from downtown Whitefish. The main residence features a soaring great room flooded with natural light, gourmet kitchen with walk-in pantry, and a signature two-level post and beam covered patio. The primary suite is
Turn-key/furnished and ready for short-term rentals or your personal retreat, this mountain view condo offers nearly 1,500 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living with quality finishes throughout. Two spacious bedrooms with ensuite baths capture serene water and mountain views, while the open floor plan showcases a stone fireplace and 9’ ceilings with solid 8’ wood doors. Relax on the covered
Back on market no fault of property! Discover an exceptional opportunity in the heart of Whitefish. This 7,487 sq. ft. (.17 acre) lot is ideally located on West 4th Street, just blocks from downtown shopping, dining, and the Whitefish River. Zoned WR-2 (Two-Family Residential), the property offers flexible building options including single-family or multi-family possibilities, making it a
Brand New Apt available on Baker Ave!! 2 bed / 1 bath with views and island.Whitefish, Montana — Wildcat Crossing is here!Applications are NOW open for Building 4, Come take a peek inside and check out one of our brand new units! They will be gone soon!This brand new space features 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with sleek finishes, high ceilings, and smart layouts designed for
New Construction available for immediate move in, Come check out one of our finished interior units! This brand-new space features 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom has sleek finishes, high ceilings, and smart layouts designed for both comfort and functionality. Located just steps from downtown Whitefish, you’ll be surrounded by charming boutiques, incredible dining, vibrant nightlife, and
Property Id: 348883Silvertip Quarters One unit available now 2 bedroom apartment $1800/month, granite counter tops and private balconiesConveniently location at 718 Edgewood Place, just a 7 minute walk to downtown whitefish2 bedroom units have 2 baths all units have a W/D All leases are month to month or one year lease. Please fill out an application.Pictures are of
Property Id: 2329874This cozy, cute little cabin is next to the Stillwater River in the forest. The many windows provide great views of wildlife, forest, river, and nature. The cabin shares 21 acres with another unit that is within sight but good separation for privacy for both. This is a furished unit with one king and one queen bed. The king is in the downstairs, while the loft, with
Property Id: 9971This beautifully furnished second floor condo with attached 1 car garage is just minute from downtown Whitefish. Finishes include granite, tile and hardwood. Enjoy the amenities at the Club House, which include home theater, fitness building with his & hers locker/steam rooms, outdoor hot tub, fire pit and kitchen and full size pool during the warm season. Charging
Property Id: 1235336Internet and water are included in this 2 bedroom, two bath condo. Also, a third story loft and two car heated garage, this property has everything you could ever want in the perfect property. There is also a beautiful clubhouse that offers workout facilities, billiards, TV room, and outdoor jacuzzies.
Property Id: 2207059Annual lease, renewable! Home is currently Occupied and will be available unfurnished in April/May. Schedule for walk through with Lakeshore Rentals.Experience authentic Montana living in this beautiful ranch-style home located in a peaceful setting just minutes from downtown Whitefish. Enjoy the charm and comfort of classic Montana style Built in 1981 that offers
Property Id: 2066622Charming one level home, walking distance downtown Whitefish, and close to grocery stores like Walgreens & Safeway! Beautifully furnished and move in ready with two bedrooms, one bathroom. The living room is cozy with a gas fireplace, TV and a Google home to play your favorite tunes. The kitchen is stocked with all the essentials, plus a handy chalkboard wall
Property Id: 122844ONe bedroom unit available for $1350 Short walk to downtown Whitefish Hard surface flooring, granite counters, A/C, dishwasher, coin op laundry, No Pets - No Smoking If interested Please fill out an application.Offered by Whitefish Property Management
Property Id: 1014630Yearly lease! Available mid November, possibly sooner with flexible move in options. This Whitefish townhouse is set in the perfect location-Just behind Logan Health hospital. Only 2 miles to down town Whitefish, 9 miles to the Whitefish Mountain Resort and 5 miles to the lake. Detached home with off-street parking washer and dryer Included.This brand-new
Property Id: 73450This bright & airy furnished unit upgraded with new carpeting throughout, granite counter tops and tile floors in the bathrooms. Features a laundry room with sink, a large loft with office alcove, large patio facing Glacier Park and large master with walk in closet & attached bath. Gas range & fireplace. Attached 1 car garage. Includes full use of the Club House
Property Id: 291245This unfurnished ground floor 2 bedroom 1 bath unit is within walking distance to downtown Whitefish and Whitefish City Beach. Features wood look laminate flooring throughout. Recently remodeled. Stove, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, washer dryer and blinds included. One designated carport space. Extra off street parking. This is a secured building.
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