Yellowstone National Park, America's first national park, spans over 3,400 square miles across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Renowned for its geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, Yellowstone offers a unique living environment for those who appreciate nature. While the park itself is mainly a protected area for visitors, the surrounding towns and communities provide various residential options for those wanting to experience the beauty of Yellowstone year-round. This article explores the best residential areas near Yellowstone, detailing their characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
West Yellowstone
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West Yellowstone is a gateway community to the national park, located just a few blocks from the West Entrance. It has a vibrant tourism scene and offers a wide variety of amenities, making it a popular place for both residents and visitors.
Characteristics of the West Yellowstone
* Culture: Tourism-driven, rich in local events and festivities
* Transportation: Accessible by car, with seasonal shuttle services to the park
* Services: Grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, and recreational equipment rentals
* Environment: Bustling and friendly, aimed at visitors
Housing Options in the West Yellowstone
Single-family homes, Townhouses, Condominiums
Average Home Prices in the West Yellowstone
* Buying: $400,000 – $600,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $2,000/month
Gardiner
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Gardiner is another gateway community, located at the north entrance of Yellowstone. This town is the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities and maintains a strong sense of community spirit.
Characteristics of the Gardiner
* Culture: Rich local history with an emphasis on outdoor activities
* Transportation: Car essential, with limited public transport options
* Services: Local shops, restaurants, and access to outdoor recreational areas
* Environment: Laid-back and community-oriented
Housing Options in the Gardiner
Single-family homes, Cabins, Vacation rentals
Average Home Prices in the Gardiner
* Buying: $350,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,800/month
Livingston
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Livingston is located about 30 miles from the park's north entrance. It is famous for its picturesque downtown, local art scene, and proximity to the Yellowstone River, making it ideal for those who enjoy a combination of culture and outdoor adventure.
Characteristics of the Livingston
* Culture: Artistic community with galleries, festivals, and theaters
* Transportation: Accessible by car, with limited public transport
* Services: Broad range of dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities
* Environment: Vibrant and creative atmosphere
Housing Options in the Livingston
Victorian homes, Craftsman-style houses, Modern apartments
Average Home Prices in the Livingston
* Buying: $250,000 – $450,000
* Renting: $900 – $1,700/month
Cody
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Cody is located to the east of Yellowstone and offers a variety of outdoor activities, rich history, and cultural events. Many families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Cody for its recreational opportunities and community events.
Characteristics of the Cody
* Culture: Historical ties to the Old West, local rodeos, and events
* Transportation: Car required, with some public transport options
* Services: Shopping centers, schools, and outdoor gear shops
* Environment: Family-friendly and welcoming
Housing Options in the Cody
Single-family homes, Ranch-style houses, Apartments
Average Home Prices in the Cody
* Buying: $300,000 – $500,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,600/month
Jackson
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Located south of Yellowstone, Jackson is a vibrant community offering a mix of high-end living and outdoor adventure. It is known for its exceptional skiing and access to Grand Teton National Park.
Characteristics of the Jackson
* Culture: Upscale, with a focus on arts and outdoor activities
* Transportation: Well-connected by roads, with some public transport options
* Services: High-end dining, shopping districts, and galleries
* Environment: Sophisticated and active
Housing Options in the Jackson
Luxury homes, Condominiums, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Jackson
* Buying: $800,000 – $1,500,000
* Renting: $2,500 – $5,000/month
Parks' Edge
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Parks' Edge is a newer development located near the entrance to Yellowstone, catering to those who want proximity to the park while enjoying modern conveniences. It's designed for both permanent residents and seasonal visitors.
Characteristics of the Parks' Edge
* Culture: Modern developments focused on sustainability
* Transportation: Car essential, easily accessible to major roads
* Services: Grocery, community parks, and outdoor recreational amenities
* Environment: Contemporary and family-friendly
Housing Options in the Parks' Edge
Modern homes, Eco-friendly designs
Average Home Prices in the Parks' Edge
* Buying: $450,000 – $700,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,500/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Yellowstone National Park:
The best residential areas near Yellowstone include West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Livingston, Cody, Jackson, and Parks' Edge.
West Yellowstone and Gardiner are directly adjacent to the park, providing easy access to its attractions.
Gardiner and Livingston typically offer more affordable housing options compared to more upscale areas like Jackson.
Residents can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing, camping, and wildlife watching throughout the year.
Public transport is limited, so owning a car is generally recommended for convenience.
Home prices vary widely, ranging from approximately $250,000 in places like Livingston to $1.5 million in Jackson.
Yes, most areas have access to local schools, and families often prefer communities like Cody and Livingston for their educational options.
Many towns host seasonal fairs, rodeos, art shows, and community festivals celebrating local traditions.
Yes, many areas like Cody and Gardiner are family-friendly with good schools, parks, and community services.
Jackson is the premier location for luxury living, offering upscale properties and amenities.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Yellowstone National Park:
The areas surrounding Yellowstone National Park provide a variety of residential options suitable for diverse lifestyles. Whether seeking the vibrant community life of West Yellowstone, the artistic charm of Livingston, or the luxury living in Jackson, there is something for everyone. Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for a tranquil retreat will find ideal homes in these communities. The choice of residence will ultimately depend on personal preference regarding proximity to the park, community culture, and housing budget, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect place to call home.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.