Realtors Predict Home Prices Will Soar in These 7 Popular Mountain Towns

Many city dwellers who dream of waking up to forests and vistas instead of an urban jungle are making homeowner moves to mountain towns across the U.S.

However, while this is a dream for many, housing prices are surging in mountain areas with desirable outdoor recreation opportunities. A convergence of limited inventory and widespread demand is pushing up home values.

Realtors say these mountain areas are booming and should continue to do so in the future. If you are hoping to join the mountain lifestyle, now may be the time to move. 

Looking for a mountain location that's not too remote? It turns out a lot of other people are too. Many urbanites have flocked to Bozeman, which has driven up housing prices there. Therefore, it's important to see where you stand financially before making the move. 

"Bozeman has experienced substantial growth and price increases in the past four years," says Robyn Erlenbush, broker and owner of ERA Landmark Real Estate, which has offices in Bozeman and other Montana cities.

People who relocate from larger, more densely populated coastal markets in search of a new lifestyle in a relaxed scenic place find that "southwestern Montana offers unparalleled recreation and mountain living," Erlenbush says.

She adds that the city has nonstop air travel to 21 major markets during the ski season.

You may not have heard of Cle Elum, a tiny town nestled in the Cascade Mountains. But the area is a prime example of a mountain location experiencing a significant real estate boom.

While it has just over 2,000 residents as of the last census, that number is increasing, thanks to the popular Suncadia Resort.

"Suncadia has become a magnet for homebuyers seeking a luxurious mountain retreat without sacrificing proximity to urban amenities," says Chris Reis, a broker and founder of PNW Residences at Compass, which is based in Seattle.

The average home listing price has jumped from around $538,000 in January 2019 to more than $1.3 million recently, Reis says.

"The resort has opened up new subdivisions in recent years that are full of ongoing construction," he says. "It's clear that demand for property in this community continues to soar."

Known for its dramatic mountain peaks, abundant wildlife, and pristine wilderness, Jackson Hole is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Latham Jenkins, a Jackson Hole-based associate broker at Live Water Properties, explains that "a major draw for both residents and investors is Jackson Hole's dedication to land preservation."

More than 97% of the area's land is protected, preserving its unspoiled beauty in a way that's increasingly rare in today's urbanized world, he says.

"The expansive landscape provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation — whether it's skiing, hiking, or fly fishing," Jenkins says.

With so much land set aside to preserve nature, the room for housing development is limited. That makes housing inventory in Jackson Hole scarce, which drives up the prices, Jenkins says.

Lisa Cunningham — a Realtor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate 43° North in Meridian, Idaho — has represented close to 15 developers in Donnelly, where there are a lot of new subdivisions coming online to meet growing demand.

"Donnelly has experienced incredible growth in the last decade, with no signs of stopping," she says.

New homes in Whistler's Cove sit next to public land and have lake access. Some are listed at more than $750,000. 

Located just 35 minutes outside Boise, Idaho City has the charm of a small mountain town and one of the best hot springs in Idaho.

"If I were a betting woman, I would bet everything I could get my hands on this town," Cunningham says.

Property in Idaho City is more affordable than other posh mountain locations, as homes in the new Mores Creek Development are selling for around $500,000, Cunningham says.

Not all mountain markets are rural. Ogden is home to around 87,000 people and sits less than 45 minutes north of Salt Lake City, right up against the Wasatch Mountains.

Prospective Utah homeowners seeking to avoid the inflated prices of nearby Salt Lake and Davis have begun seeking properties further north, causing the interest — and the prices — in Ogden to rise.

"People are drawn to the relatively low prices, and proximity to Pineview Reservoir makes it more attractive than populated, high-priced areas like Park City and Salt Lake," says Justin Sisson, Realtor with Bickmore & Associates Realty in Draper, Utah.

Bretton Woods is a hidden gem tucked away in the White Mountains. The area is a ski destination for skiers of all levels and is also home to the iconic Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa.

"Nine condo communities and three single-family communities make up the majority of housing in this area, so the demand to buy in this special place is high," says Arlie Vandenbroek, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Lifestyles.

Whether you're looking to spend more time in the great outdoors or simply to escape the bustle of city life, you're not alone in fantasizing about a home in the woods. 

It's easy to see the appeal of mountain living — fresh air, beautiful views, a lot to do, and modern amenities. The high housing prices in these regions reflect their desirability.

So, while chances are good and you'll build wealth through rising equity in a mountainside chalet, you'll have to come up with a hefty down payment and beat stiff competition to buy one in the first place.