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
Danni Moore,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Whitefish, MT sell after 140 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 $1,000,000, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the ultimate Whitefish lifestyle in this stunning contemporary townhome, perfectly positioned just steps from the Whitefish River and minutes from downtown. This 1,276-square-foot residence features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a versatile third-story loft, all centered around a striking spiral staircase that maximizes the floor plan to create an expansive, open-concept living and
586 Hidden Valley Drive Whitefish, Montana offered for the first time in nearlly 50 years, this cherished 5-acre property reflects a true legacy of pride in ownership. Tucked into a prime Whitefish location, the setting offers exceptional privacy, mature landscaping, and a peaceful connection to nature, yet remains just minutes from town. The 4-bedroom, 2-bath home has been meticulously
Short-term rentals allowed, owner financing available, and all furnishings negotiable. This 5-bed, 3-bath home is perfectly located near Whitefish Ski Resort with private lift access! Enjoy luxurious mountain living on a 0.7-acre lot, with mountain views. Features include a vaulted great room, 3 custom stone fireplaces, chef’s kitchen, outdoor sauna, gym, 3-car garage, and low-maintenance
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
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
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
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.
Discover your quintessential mountain townhome—perfectly designed for embracing everything the Flathead Valley lifestyle has to offer. Ideally located just minutes from Whitefish Mountain Resort and the convenient ski bus, this home also sits within walking distance to Whitefish Lake and vibrant downtown Whitefish. Nestled in a private, peaceful neighborhood, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds:
Just up the hill from Whitefish Lake and minutes from Whitefish Mountain Resort, this 4,000+ SF mountain retreat offers privacy, views, and convenience. Tucked among trees in a quiet neighborhood, the 3 bed/4 bath home with loft and office features expansive windows, a newly built stone wood-burning fireplace, large entertaining space, a chef’s kitchen with dual sinks, double ovens, and a
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
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
Property Id: 11852372 Bedroom 1 Bath beautiful home overlooking Whitefish Lake. Central air, 2 car heated garage, deck overlooking Whitefish Lake. Surrounded by state forest land. Dog friendly, fully furnished, utilities included.. $6000/ Month. Available May - October. . David Ericson -Property Manager- Mountain Town Management.
Property Id: 233251**New vinyl flooring currently being installed. New photos to come.** Last photos loaded show new flooring that is currently being finished.Just North of the viaduct, close to town, schools, city beach, etc.Open floorpan.Full bedroom, bathroom, gas fireplace, kitchen, laundry on the main floor.3 bedrooms upstairsLarge front yard & front
Property Id: 1343699Beautiful Modern Home with Secure Fenced Yard Perfect for Kids and doggo. A mountain modern home located in one of Whitefish’s Premier neighborhoods: High Point on 2nd St. This home is truly luxury meets Montana mountain living. Perfectly located, the home provides a beautiful view of Big Mountain and is less than a mile walk to downtown Whitefish. The large two car
Property Id: 600150Views 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 2026Available: January through March 2026Terms: Monthly Rent: 3000.00 Rent: January through May - 3000.00 per
Property Id: 422Walk to downtown from this third story fully furnished 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo. In unit laundry room with storage. One designated spot in carport and off street parking. Secure building.Available: April 7, 2026Terms: Month to MonthRent: $ 1900.00 plus utilitiesSecurity Deposit: $ 2400.00No Pets
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: 2066622*APRIL AVAILABILITY**AUGUST AVAILABILITY**SEPTEMBER AVAILABILITY**OCTOBER AVAILABILITY**NOVEMBER AVAILABILITY**DECEMBER AVAILABILITY* *Home is rented from mid May-mid July*Charming one level home, walking distance downtown Whitefish, and close to grocery stores like Walgreens & Safeway! Beautifully furnished and move in ready with two
Property Id: 1865275This beautiful, unfurnished 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome is located in the historic downtown Whitefish neighborhood. With 1,682 sqft offers modern comfort & convenience, walking distance to downtown, & just steps from Muldown Elementary & Whitefish High School.The main floor features a bright living room with a gas fireplace, dining area, & a contemporary
Property Id: 657072Beautiful 4-Bedroom Home in Whitefish - Fully FurnishedWelcome to your dream home in The Lakes subdivision of Whitefish! Stunning two-story, 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence is tastefully decorated and fully furnished, offering you a seamless move-in experience. This home provides a tranquil retreat while being conveniently close to town.Key
Property Id: 2478907This 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment home is close to downtown and the city beach.Ground floor open kitchen, living and dining. Beautiful finishes. Includes stove, fridge, dishwasher and microwave & washer/dryer. Designated off street parking for each unit and individual storage. High efficiency energy appliances, windows and heat. Five Star Rating.Available: June
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: 2473798This 4-bedroom, 2-bath single-family home offers comfortable living in a great Whitefish location. Enjoy easy access to downtown, nearby schools, and all the conveniences of town. The home includes a private hot tub, a backyard chicken coop, and pet approval on a case-by-case basis. No smoking.Utilities Included!
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