Custer, MT
Population 155 · Montana
About Custer, MT
Custer is a small community located in Montana with a population of 155 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,000 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 59.5 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Custer features a median home value of $121,700, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Custer one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $431, 63% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 96 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (65 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (15 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Custer shows an unemployment rate of 2.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 18.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Custer have an average one-way commute time of 34.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.2% of Custer residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Custer Ranks in Montana
Cost of Living in Custer, MT
Compared to national averages, Custer has a median household income of $70,000 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,700, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $431 is 63% below the US average of $1,163. Within Montana, Custer's income is 6% above the state average of $65,821, and home values are 58% below the state median of $288,703.
Why Live in Custer, MT?
Custer offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $431/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.4%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,000) that falls below the national average. However, Custer’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Custer has a population of 155 with a median age of 59.5 years. Compare Custer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Montana.
Similar Cities Near Custer
Cities in Montana with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Havre | 155 | $63,819 | $330,000 | Compare |
| Dodson | 156 | $41,172 | $44,700 | Compare |
| Saco | 154 | $51,250 | $64,400 | Compare |
| Little Bitterroot Lake | 153 | $105,114 | $775,000 | Compare |
| Rimrock Colony | 157 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Sylvanite | 157 | $52,396 | $376,900 | Compare |
| Broadview | 152 | $66,250 | $148,800 | Compare |
| Maxville | 150 | $143,462 | $450,000 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Montana
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Custer With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Custer
What is the population of Custer, MT?
The population of Custer, MT is 155 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Montana.
What is the median household income in Custer?
The median household income in Custer, MT is $70,000 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Custer?
The median home value in Custer, MT is $121,700, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Custer?
The median monthly rent in Custer, MT is $431, which is 63% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Custer?
The unemployment rate in Custer, MT is 2.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Custer, MT a good place to live?
Custer offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 155 and a median age of 59.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Custer, MT?
23.2% of residents in Custer aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Custer?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Custer, MT: median home value is $121,700 (50% below national), median rent is $431/month, and median household income is $70,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Custer?
The poverty rate in Custer, MT is 18.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Custer, MT?
Custer's population is 0.0% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.