If you are an outsider, crime is the least of your worries. Instead, plan on the locals trying to run you out of town.

Hi Susan. I live in Stevensville in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana. Crime here is very low. I find our Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce to be a great source of information (http://www.bitterrootvalleychamber.com) as well as our website included below. They are a great source of local information. If you are interested in searching for properties here in the Bitterroot Valley, you can call me anytime. -Ginger Vanek, Eickert Realty

Hi Susan,
Crime rate in MT is very low, almost nothing, THANK GOD! The cost of living depend on your lifestyle, what are you looking for? Average single family, 3 bedrooms/2bathrooms in Bozeman, around $220,000 (mortgage payment only $1,400) you can find good deals now because the buyer's market is really hot.
Please feel free to contact me for more information, I will be more than happy to help with all your questions about moving to Bozeman.
Have a great day!
Luci Edwards http://www.forsalebozeman.com

Susan,

Do you have a specific location in Montana in mind? If you need specific information about the Bozeman area visit the Prospera Business Group site. You will find a great economic profile on the area.