What Should Affordable Housing Look Like in Bozeman?

by Liz Nitz

Affordable Housing In Bozeman

Affordable housing in Bozeman is one of the biggest issues right now.  Affordability feels especially critical because of how tight the market has become since the pandemic. A huge influx of out-of-town buyers helped drive inventory down to record lows and prices up to record highs. The median price of a home in Bozeman is now up to $615,000 according to the latest Gallatin Association of Realtors Market Watch. 

The city commission recently approved a future growth plan that will increase the city’s footprint from 20.4 square miles to 70.8 over the next 20 years. As Bozeman grows, there will be opportunities to provide more affordable options. But it’s not just about the housing itself. I believe it’s also important to consider the bigger picture of creating healthy and thriving communities. Let’s take a look at what affordable housing should look like in Bozeman.

 

More Missing Middle Housing

Pictured is an apartment complex on the corner of Koch St. and Third Avenue. This multi-unit courtyard building sits right in the heart of the historic district in downtown Bozeman and blends in well with the single-family homes around it. It’s a great example of missing middle housing, which is defined as a type of housing that sits in the middle between detached single-family homes and mid-rise to high-rise apartment buildings. Missing middle housing often makes neighborhoods that would otherwise be out of reach more affordable. Many of the really nice, well-planned subdivisions in Bozeman like West Meadows, Flanders Mill and Valley West also feature smaller townhomes and missing middle options in their communities.

 

More Mixed-Use Neighborhoods

A mixed-use neighborhood is one where residential and commercial buildings intermingle in a way that encourages walking, biking, social connections and a real feeling of community. There is an organic vibrancy and diversity to mixed-use neighborhoods if they’re done right. The historic districts in downtown Bozeman are a great example. Take a walking tour and you will see lots of examples of missing middle housing options like duplexes, fourplexes, cottage courts and courtyard buildings mixed in with modest, single-family homes and multi-million dollar mansions. And best of all, the retail, restaurants and coffee shops on Main Street are just a quick 10- to 15-minute walk or bike ride from your door. The result is an engaged and lively neighborhood where college kids and young families mingle with empty-nesters and elderly neighbors.

Some great information on missing middle housing and mixed-use neighborhoods can be found at:

www.bluezones.com 

www.missingmiddlehousing.com 

In a future post I will highlight the new Bridger View project that was recently approved by the city commission. It will feature 31 market-rate homes set aside for working families in Bozeman who have been priced out of the market. If you’re a first-time homebuyer or just have questions about the Bozeman market, feel free to contact me at liz@windermere.com.

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2238 Baxter Lane 8, Bozeman, Montana 59718

2238 Baxter Lane 8, Bozeman, Montana 59718

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
970Sqft
This cozy, well-maintained, and bright second level 2 Bed, 2 Bath condo boasts it all from new LVP flooring throughout the kitchen and living room to its convenient proximity to shopping, parks, and schools. Enjoy the mountain view from the covered balcony before heading to the nearby walking trails. Easy access to the detached single car garage and private parking space.
$375,000

1755 Windrow Drive, Bozeman, Montana 59718

1755 Windrow Drive, Bozeman, Montana 59718

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.02Acre
2,100Sqft
Modern, single level living in Flanders Mill! This like-new home boasts soaring ceilings, an entertainer’s kitchen with quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances coupled with a thoughtful and open floor plan.
$1,099,000

5408 May Fly Street, Bozeman, Montana 59718

5408 May Fly Street, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.14Acre
1,796Sqft
Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to own a single family home in Bozeman listed under $700,000 with mountain views! This well laid out, 1796 sq ft Norton Ranch home features 3 generously sized bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, large closets, and an open floor plan on the ground floor. The fenced back yard gives plenty of privacy while still getting plenty of sun year round.
$695,000

2400 W Durston Road 40, Bozeman, Montana 59715

2400 W Durston Road 40, Bozeman, Montana 59715

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
1,820Sqft
Appealing Willowbrook condo with updated luxury vinyl plank flooring in kitchen, dining area and living room. Full kitchen appliance package plus a washer and dryer. Gas fireplace serves dining and living room areas. Large east facing patio for enjoyment in the summer. First floor master with double closets. The two bedrooms on the second floor share a full bath. Two car garage.
$539,000

743 Loxley Drive, Bozeman, Montana 59718

743 Loxley Drive, Bozeman, Montana 59718

5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.19Acre
2,348Sqft
Location, main level master and a 3 car tandem garage are just a few of the reasons you have to tour this property for yourself! Vaulted ceilings, five bedrooms, two and half bath with over 2,000 sq ft. this floor plan allows for a variety of options to suit your needs. Directly out the backdoor leads you to a patio with a pergola great for entertaining in the backyard.
$829,900

2526 Maiden Star Lane, Bozeman, Montana 59715

2526 Maiden Star Lane, Bozeman, Montana 59715

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.20Acre
2,455Sqft
The Legends home you have been waiting for! 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath, high end custom built by DK Homes. Fantastic location close to neighborhood trails that link to the M/town trail and Story Mill Park. Minutes to Main Street and Bridger Bowl. This home features an open floor plan showcasing rock fireplace with soaring vaulted ceilings.
$997,000

3801 Renova Lane, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3801 Renova Lane, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.14Acre
1,242Sqft
Currently the ONLY single family home in Bozeman city limits under $600,000! This single level three bedroom, two bath home is situated in Oak Springs subdivision, directly across from the neighborhood park and within close proximity to the Gallatin County Regional Park.
$590,000

114 Michael Grove, Bozeman, Montana 59718

114 Michael Grove, Bozeman, Montana 59718

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
0.08Acre
1,354Sqft
Looking for a great investment, home for your college students or just a great deal in an increasingly competitive market??? Well, look no further. This townhome is 3 beds, 2 full baths, great back yard ready for your personal touch. Located conveniently to all things Bozeman, this centrally located home gives you access to wherever you need to go.
$449,900

4616 Danube Lane, Bozeman, Montana 59718

4616 Danube Lane, Bozeman, Montana 59718

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
0.42Acre
3,834Sqft
Highly sought after Baxter Meadows West location! If you're looking to be in the heart of Bozeman's energy, look no farther! Conveniently located just blocks from Bozeman schools, the neighborhood park, Bozeman Sports Park, Gallatin Regional Park, Dog Park, pump track & Dinosaur Park...it's a rare find! Situated on just over 0.
$1,359,800
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