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10 Mountain Towns Where You Can Still Get a House for Under $300K

You have some good options if you want to live in a mountain town while sticking to a budget.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated Oct. 1, 2024

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A great homeowner money move is to buy an affordable place that keeps you comfortably within your budget. But if you want to live in a mountain town, it can be difficult to find a home at a reasonable price.

However, “difficult” does not mean “impossible.” There are still mountain towns where you can enjoy nature or beautiful views without breaking the bank.

Here are a few places to check out if you want a home for under $300,000. Unless otherwise noted, all median home values are from Redfin.

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Casper, Wyoming

Median home value: $288,500

Casper can be a great option for residents who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or skiing.

The town is near Hogadon Basin Ski Area, which has almost 30 trails to try out. Most are intermediate or expert level for the seasoned skier to enjoy.

You can also check out the town’s growing food scene, including plenty of microbrews.

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New Kensington, Pennsylvania

Median home value: $165,000

Outside of Pittsburgh, you will find New Kensington. It is located along the Allegheny River.

The town’s proximity to Pittsburgh — it’s less than 20 miles away from the city — gives residents the option to both enjoy the outdoors and go to the city whenever they want.

Davis, West Virginia

Median home value: $257,000

If you like outdoor adventure, Davis has it all. Mountain biking and hiking trails abound, and the area has some of the nation's best whitewater rafting.

You will even find downhill and cross-country ski resorts nearby.

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Anaconda, Montana

Median home value: $287,786 (Zillow)

Skiers and snowboarders will love Discovery Ski Area in Anaconda during the winter months. Or, check out hiking trails on summer days.

The town is two hours away from Bozeman, which has an international airport to make it easy to get in and out of the area.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Median home value: $260,000

Eureka Springs is home to affordable options for residents who want to try water sports, hiking, or spelunking in the Ozark Mountains.

The area is home to the Onyx Cave, Cosmic Cavern, and War Eagle Cavern.

Lead, South Dakota

Median home value: $177,500

Lead is located in the Black Hills, close to the Wyoming border. Once a mining town, today it is better known for hiking, fishing, and biking.

You can also ski and snowmobile in the winter. The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is about one hour away.

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Roanoke, Virginia

Median home value: $245,000

Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains are home to Roanoke, which is along the iconic Appalachian Trail. It’s perfect for outdoor types who love to hike.

The city also has plenty of restaurants and craft breweries to enjoy.

Saranac Lake, New York

Median home value: $287,500

Saranac Lake is less than 10 miles from Lake Placid, a town that has hosted a pair of Winter Olympics.

The village is home to shops and diners, but those who are more inclined to outdoor activities can explore the Adirondack Mountains. Canoeing and kayaking are popular pastimes in Saranac Lake.

Hickory, North Carolina

Median home value: $288,000

Fast cars set the pace in Hickory, home of the Hickory Motor Speedway. The track is known as the "birthplace of NASCAR stars."

The town also hosts many festivals and other community events, and residents can access six recreation centers and a pair of senior centers.

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Metaline Falls, Washington

Median home value: $255,000

Another good Northwest option is Metaline Falls in Washington. It sits along the Selkirk Mountains.

The town is close to the Canadian border and offers plenty of mountain activities, as well as camping options around nearby Sullivan Lake. You can also check out the nearby Gardner Cave.

Bottom line

It may be a good idea to start managing your money carefully if you want to be able to pay for a home in the mountains.

Check your budget to see how much you can afford. Then, book a visit to one of these mountain towns.

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