Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Ennis, MT

Montana isn't known for its bustling metropolises but for its gorgeous scenery and small towns that have unique personalities and a genuine sense of community. You'll uncover some of the finest individuals, fantastic restaurants, boutique shops, and one-of-a-kind attractions in these charming small towns.

If you're fortunate enough to move to the Treasure State, it's essential to prioritize exploring as many of these quaint communities as possible. One top town that should definitely be on your list is Ennis.

Ennis, a delightful small town in Madison County, has become a more attractive option for those considering the surrounding areas of Bozeman. Ennis is where the legacies of ranching families, avid anglers, and rich history converge. Families have devoted themselves to ranching the same land for many generations, creating a deep connection in the area. Anglers flock to Ennis in pursuit of the renowned catch and release blue ribbon fly fishing found in the waters of the Madison River. Ennis serves as an idyllic base camp to call home, surrounded by the majestic Gravelly Range, Madison Range, and the Tobacco Root Mountains. The community strikes the perfect balance: offering a range of dining, lodging, and shopping options while maintaining its small-town charm, allowing visitors to stroll throughout Main Street in just a few minutes.

If you've had the opportunity to visit Ennis, you likely understand why it is considered one of the top destinations in Montana. Not only does it reside in the awe-inspiring southwestern region of the state, but it also boasts a commendable income per capita attributed to its ranching economy. The local public school system is highly regarded as well.

If you’re considering to live in Ennis as your new neighborhood, you’ll want to learn everything about the area. Here are the pros and cons of living in Ennis, MT, to help you make the most informed decision before moving. Check out our listings for Ennis Homes For Sale and find your dream home today.

If you have a passion for fishing, Ennis is an absolute haven! With an abundance of exceptional locations like the Beaverhead River, Big Hole River, Ruby River, and the renowned Madison River nearby, you'll always have fantastic angling spots to explore. The Madison River, famous for its incredible trout fishing, gracefully flows through the heart of town.

If you're new to the area, several fly fishing companies and guides who are available to assist you in becoming acquainted with the area. The Ennis Lions Club Park also features a kid's fishing pond for children under 12 to kickstart their fishing adventures. 

Despite being quaint and cozy, Ennis offers various activities to keep you entertained. Its charming Main Street boasts lovely cafes, enticing restaurants, unique shops, captivating art galleries, and authentic old Western saloons.

Additionally, you’ll find a bowling alley, the Madison Theatre, and a golf course. Plus, let's not overlook the endless array of outdoor adventures in store, from camping and fishing to hiking, hunting, and much more. Ennis is ideally situated for day trips, with Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park not far away and the historic town of Virginia City a mere 15-minute drive away.

Ennis prides itself on being a close-knit community. Various organizations, such as the Ennis Rotary Club, Boys and Girls Clubs of Ennis, and the Madison Valley Woman's Club, actively support and uplift the community and its residents. Annual events play a significant role in Ennis' way of life. From the Tap into Ennis event, which supports local breweries, distilleries, and restaurants, to the grand Fourth of July celebration featuring a car show, fireworks, parade, rodeo, and the Music in the Park Summer Concert Series, there's always something fun on the calendar. The Hunter’s Feed is a popular event to kick off hunting season in the area. Don’t forget the cherished annual Spirit of Christmas Stroll, a can’t-miss celebration everyone loves, with gingerbread competitions, s’mores in the park, live concerts, pictures with Santa, hayrides, live nativity scenes, tree lighting ceremonies, and more.

 

Recommended reading: Buying a Home in Ennis

If you're relocating to Montana from a big city, a one-hour commute may not seem like a big deal. However, the journey from Bozeman to Ennis is not for the faint of heart, particularly during winter! It involves navigating a curvy, two-lane highway, and Norris Road can be treacherous during snowstorms.

That said, living in Ennis and commuting to Bozeman can be an excellent option if these challenges don't deter you. The drive offers scenic views of the majestic mountains and the meandering Madison River. Many individuals undertake this drive daily, but it's essential to consider this factor if you're contemplating a move to Ennis and commuting to Bozeman. 

Like many parts of Montana, Ennis attracts plenty of tourists. Its prime location — with exceptional fishing and hunting opportunities and a 1.5-hour trip to Yellowstone National Park — makes it a magnet for seasonal visitors, particularly during the summer. To give you an idea of the tourism influx, this small town with a population of under 1,000 is home to several local knowledgeable fly fishing guide companies! This brings seasonal employment opportunities for locals and keeps the city vibrant and alive. The thriving downtown scene owes much of its vitality to the presence of visitors.

Montana experiences extended periods of darkness and frigid temperatures during its winters. If you enjoy winter sports, the winters will pass by quickly. However, if you're not particularly fond of these activities, the season can feel challenging, often accompanied by cabin fever. Before relocating to Montana, it is crucial to acquire suitable clothing and equipment capable of withstanding the demands of winter life in this region, and it will make the cold months more fun.

There you have it — a list of the pros and cons of living in Ennis. If you’re ready to start searching for single family homes for sale in Ennis, connect with a local expert for the best results. Trusted broker Dawn Myrvik is a Montana native who has the expertise and insight you need. Clients love her dedication to creating a seamless journey and helping them achieve their goals. Contact Dawn today to get started!

 

Recommended reading: Things to Do in Ennis, MT

_{*Header photo courtesy of Dawn Myrvik}