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
Jeannette Carr-Smith,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Whitefish, MT sell after 129 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Whitefish, MT over the last 12 months is $996,000, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
$New Price $895,000!!! Recently renovated & move-in-ready! This Whitefish home is perfectly located just 10 minutes from downtown Whitefish, 15 minutes to Kalispell, and 8 minutes to the airport! You are also only 30 minutes from Glacier Park, Flathead Lake, and Whitefish Mountain Skiing!Recent improvements include new mini-split heating & air conditioning, all-new appliances including washer
Short-term rentals are permitted, making this well-located Whitefish duplex an exceptional opportunity for investors, owner-occupants, or those seeking a flexible mountain property. Each turn-key unit offers 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, with a combined 1,768 square feet of living space situated on a spacious 0.20-acre lot. Whether you're looking to generate rental income, live in one unit while
Eric PerlsteinKeller Williams Realty Northwest Montana
Conveniently located just off Highway 40, this Whitefish property offers the perfect combination of privacy, flexibility, and accessibility. Enjoy easy access to downtown Whitefish, Kalispell, and Columbia Falls while being tucked away on a spacious lot with room to relax and enjoy Montana living. The home features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a large loft, and an additional basement living/playroom
Scott FrankCentury 21 Deaton and Company Real Estate
Experience the unparalleled privacy and freedom this exceptional property offers, a true sanctuary nestled amidst Montana’s natural beauty. Spanning nearly five acres of mostly level terrain, adorned with mature trees and a tranquil creek, this land promises a rare retreat where you can spread out and fully embrace the outdoors. From the moment you arrive, you'll notice the peaceful seclusion and
Tucked away on 20 private acres in the highly desirable Haskill Basin, this exceptional 4 bedroom Whitefish retreat offers the perfect blend of seclusion, recreation, and convenience. Surrounded by towering cedar, larch and fir trees with Stoltz Timber lands bordering the northeast boundary and direct access to 1,000's of acres of public land, the property is a true outdoor paradise. Despite its
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
Discover the perfect opportunity to build your dream home in the prestigious Iron Horse Subdivision! This exceptional lot offers breathtaking views of Whitefish Mountain Resort and its iconic ski runs. Backing up to Stoltze land, you'll enjoy unparalleled privacy and direct access to a scenic trail system for endless outdoor adventures. Iron Horse Club provides an unrivaled lifestyle with
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.
$New Price $895,000!!! Recently renovated & move-in-ready! This Whitefish home is perfectly located just 10 minutes from downtown Whitefish, 15 minutes to Kalispell, and 8 minutes to the airport! You are also only 30 minutes from Glacier Park, Flathead Lake, and Whitefish Mountain Skiing!Recent improvements include new mini-split heating & air conditioning, all-new appliances including washer
Price Improvement!! Welcome to Elk Highlands - an exclusive ski-in, ski-out community nestled on the world-renowned Whitefish Mountain Resort. Whether you’re seeking a private alpine retreat or an investment with exceptional short-term rental potential, this custom log masterpiece delivers on every level. Resting on 1.5 acres of coveted mountain beauty, the home offers over 4,000 square feet of
With Whitefish Mountain Resort just up the road, a private Whitefish Lake homeowner’s beach nearby, and coveted nightly/weekly zoning, this fully furnished, turn-key Big Horn one-bedroom, one-bath loft condo is ideal as a year-round residence, vacation getaway, or investment. New windows and trim in 2024. Beautifully remodeled with new flooring, appliances, and a newer mini-split system for
Enjoy the perfect blend of convenience and space with this exceptional 1.91-acre property just minutes from downtown Whitefish. Tucked in a peaceful setting yet close to everything, this property offers a rare opportunity to live comfortably in the existing cabin while planning and building your future dream home. The existing cabin is thoughtfully designed with an inviting open layout, featuring
Whitefish recreation, rental flexibility, and mountain-town lifestyle come together in this inviting Ptarmigan Village condo. Tucked among the trees with peaceful creek views from the only covered and private balcony in the building, this property offers the perfect basecamp for year-round Montana adventure. Spend winter days on the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort, summer afternoons on
Positioned directly in the path of progress, this 5.76-acre property offers an unparalleled development opportunity on the US Highway 93 South corridor. Situated strategically between Kalispell and Whitefish, this stretch is the epicenter of the valley's commercial expansion. With MDT data showing traffic counts surpassing 26,000 vehicles daily, the unbeatable visibility makes this flat, highly
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 Apt available on Baker Ave!! 2 bed/1 bath in Whitefish, Montana!This brand new apartment features 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with 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 endless outdoor
NEWLY CONSTRUCTED 2 BED/2BATH APT Near WHITEFISH LAKE AND MTN. AVAILABLE 9/1/26We are pleased to announce the completion of our new apartments in Whitefish, located off Colorado Avenue, featuring proximity to city beach. VIEWS OF BIG MOUNTAIN! This is a Two Bedroom Two bath apt. The rent is $2100 a month with a deposit of $2100. We are asking for a one year lease: Water is billed per usage in
NEWLY CONSTRUCTED 1/1 BATH APT on first, second, and third floor Near WHITEFISH LAKE AND MTN. AVAILABLE NOW!!We are pleased to announce the completion of our new apartments in Whitefish, located off Colorado Avenue, featuring proximity to city beach. This apartment is a One Bedroom One bath apt. The rent is $1900 a month with a deposit of $1900. We are asking for a one year lease: Water is
NEWLY CONSTRUCTED 2 BED/2BATH APT Near WHITEFISH LAKE AND MTN. AVAILABLE 9/1/26We are pleased to announce the completion of our new apartments in Whitefish, located off Colorado Avenue, featuring proximity to city beach. VIEWS OF BIG MOUNTAIN! This is a Two Bedroom Two bath apt. The rent is $2100 a month with a deposit of $2100. We are asking for a one year lease: Water is billed per usage in
Amazing Community Amenities: playground and basketball hoop on the property or sign up for your very own spot in the Community Garden! Unbeatable Whitefish Location: Live close to everything locals love! We are just minutes away from downtown shops, delicious local restaurants, the top-rated Whitefish School District, and beautiful City Beach at Whitefish Lake.
Property Id: 9971 This 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 port
Property Id: 2735705 10-Acre Furnished Mountain Retreat | Borders State Land | Near Tally Lake | Hot Tub | 4BR/2BA | Month-to-Month Lease | $6,950/Month Available Now | Fully Furnished | Utilities Included*** Experience Montana the way it was meant to be on this exceptional 10-acre mountain retreat bordering state land. Offering unmatched privacy, breathtaking mountain views, and
Property Id: 1369736 6 Month Rental: November 2026 - May 2027 Beautifully furnished Whitefish waterfront private home with endless lake and mountain views. Master king en suite, two separate queen bedrooms and fourth bunk room all flow into the updated and fully stocked open kitchen with vaulted great room and cozy gas fireplace as well as separate breakfast and dining. High speed
Property Id: 600150 Views of Whitefish Mountain Resort from the patio of this beautifully furnished brand new 2 bedroom 2 bath condo. This unit includes an attached 2 car garage. Enjoy the hot tub and club house amenities. Booked: June through September 2026 Available: March through September 2027 Terms: Monthly Rent: 3000.00/3400.00 Rent: March 2027 through
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
This two-level Townhome includes 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2,100 square feet of living space (not including the garage space), stainless steel appliances (fridge/freezer, stove/oven, dishwasher, microwave), kitchen island, dining room, living room with gas fireplace, den/family room, washer and dryer, and air conditioning. Exterior amenities include a front porch, back deck and concrete patio,
Available September 15th. No pets. Fully furnished, cozy and quaint mountain condo located near the top of Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, in the heart of Ptarmigan Village. It is the perfect mountain getaway. Enjoy the peaceful nights and all of the amenities Ptarmigan boasts: Indoor and Outdoor Pool, Huge outdoor Jacuzzi, wet sauna, tennis courts, bbq grills, Trout Pond and private beach access
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