Best Cities in the Mountain States to Live – Relocation Guide (2025) | LookyLOO

The Mountain States — stretching across Colorado, Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming- are famous for wide-open spaces and some of the most amazing outdoor recreation in the country. It has also seen a dramatic increase in growth since the start of COVID, resulting in the emergence of cities like Boise and Salt Lake City as rivals to the coasts for families and young professionals. If you want access to nature and dynamic growth, this region is worth exploring.


Top Cities in the Mountain States

Denver, Colorado

Denver is the largest city in the region and has transformed into a hub for young professionals, remote workers, and outdoor lovers. The job market is strong in tech, energy, and health care. Mountains are a short drive away, though housing costs are high compared to the rest of the region.

Boise, Idaho

Boise blends small-city friendliness with rapid growth. It’s a favorite for movers seeking affordability, outdoor living, and a strong sense of community. The city has become one of the most popular destinations for people leaving the West Coast.

Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City combines a growing economy, a tech scene nicknamed the “Silicon Slopes,” and access to some of the best skiing in the world. It’s more affordable than Denver but shares many of the same outdoorsy draws.

Missoula, Montana

Missoula has a laid-back vibe and a strong arts community. With rivers, mountains, and trails all around, it’s ideal for people who want to balance cultural life with year-round outdoor recreation.

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson is world-famous for its natural beauty, luxury real estate, and proximity to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. It’s expensive, but if you’re looking for a small-town feel with international appeal, Jackson stands out.

Fort Collins, Colorado

Fort Collins is a college town with a strong brewing culture, historic downtown, and access to the Rockies. It’s growing quickly but still maintains a smaller-city feel compared to Denver.

Idaho Falls, Idaho

Idaho Falls is a smaller city with access to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and regional recreation. Its affordability and family-friendly amenities are attracting more movers as Idaho grows in popularity.

Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman has become a hotspot for remote workers and entrepreneurs. It’s more expensive than other Montana cities but offers a balance of modern amenities and outdoor access.

Provo, Utah

Provo is part of Utah’s tech corridor and has a strong mix of family life and college-town energy. The tech corridor is attracting entrepreneurship, excited to be in the fresh mountain air! It’s one of the most affordable metros in the Mountain West for people looking to blend work and outdoor living.

Cheyenne, Wyoming

Cheyenne has a Western heritage feel, affordable housing, and growing opportunities as people look for alternatives to Denver and Fort Collins. It’s a smaller city with strong community ties.


Is the Mountain States Region Right for You?

This region is a good fit if you want access to world-class outdoor recreation, a mix of small and mid-sized cities, and growing job markets. The tradeoff is higher costs in some popular destinations and more seasonal weather than in coastal states.


Ready to Find Your City?

Not sure which Mountain States city is right for you? Take our LookyLOO Quiz and start building your Movebook today.