Image: Bridger Bowl
With the average monthly rent in places like Jackson, WY topping out at 2k for a 1 bedroom 1 bath, it’s becoming harder and harder for ski bums to do exactly what they do – ski bum. However, as the iconic mountains of Aspen, Jackson, and Vail become damn near unattainable, other towns continue to fly under the radar, offering ski bums reasonable rent, empty ski hills, and awesome terrain and snow. Here are the Top 5 Towns for Ski Bums on a Budget. Because at the end of the day, what ski bum isn’t on a budget?
Rent represents the average cost for a 1-bedroom unit/month.
Ogden, UT
Rent-$700
With Powder Mountain only 30 minutes to the north and Alta a little over an hour to the south, Ogden is situated in one of the best areas for skiing in the world. Ultimately, this Utah gem retains the pros of living in Salt Lake City without the Salt Lake City prices.
Bellingham, WA
Rent- $750
Are you and introvert? Do you like wandering the foggy hills of Washington alone under the towering Mt. Shuksan, contemplating life, powder turns, and the presence of elves in the hills? If so, move to Bellingham, WA. Just an hour outside of Mt. Baker and the surrounding North Cascades National Park, Bellingham offers easy access to the mountains while retaining a hardcore ski bum community.
Bozeman, MT
Rent- $805
Just 35 minutes down the road from the home of “Cold Smoke,” Bozeman offers easy access to one of the best ski areas in the country in Bridger Bowl. While retaining a city atmosphere that remains on the cheaper side of things, Bozeman is also home to Montana State University, which provides a regular ratio of men to women not often found in MANtana.
Taos, NM
Rent- $695
Taos is the forgotten step-child of the ski industry. However with the new Kachina Peak chairlift and the renovation of the base area at Taos Ski Valley, Taos is poised for some great years ahead.
Sandpoint, ID
Rent- $700
Sandpoint is just a short drive south from Schweitzer Mountain Resort, which hosts some of the most understated terrain and snow in the lower 48. However, be prepared to be isolated. On the other hand, the biggest advantage to living in Sandpoint is its proximity to interior British Columbia. With the Powder highway only three hours away, a trip to BC comes easy and makes Sandpoint the closest many US citizens will ever get to living in British Columbia.