Big Sky, Montana: Ski Slopes and Skyrocketing Rents

Big Sky is a picturesque yet expensive mountain town in the Rocky Mountains, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant outdoor recreation scene. Located about halfway between Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park, this small community is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Big Sky is home to the iconic Big Sky Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in North America, offering extensive slopes and backcountry terrain for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. In the summer, the area transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and rafting, with the Gallatin River running nearby. The town’s proximity to Yellowstone adds to its appeal, as it serves as a convenient base for exploring the park’s geysers, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes.

Big Sky is also grappling with a severe housing crisis, driven by skyrocketing costs that have left many working residents unable to afford homes, forcing some into RVs and shelters. The area, long known for its natural beauty, has attracted wealthy tourists, investors, and remote workers, pushing up property prices and deepening inequality. Luxury developments cater to billionaires, while locals struggle with unaffordable rents and home prices.

Historically reliant on mining, Montana shifted to tourism as its primary industry after economic declines in the 1980s. This has brought economic growth but also widened the gap between the rich and working-class residents. Private equity firms now dominate the real estate market, further exacerbating inequality. Tax policies favoring the wealthy since 2003 have compounded the issue, attracting affluent transplants while pricing out locals.

Grassroots movements like Bozeman Tenants United are fighting back, advocating for tenant protections, affordable housing, and limits on short-term rentals. Despite some political efforts, challenges persist as new developments remain out of reach for most residents. Montana faces a critical decision: embrace policies that ensure shared prosperity or continue down a path where wealth is concentrated among the few, leaving many residents behind.