Whitefish, MT 60 Apartments for Rent

Golf balls are not something you expect to go whizzing by your head when you're safely indoors. That's not going to stop Whitefish, Montana! The Annual World Indoor Golf Championship is 9 holes spread throughout the downtown area's bars and restaurants. Eat, drink, and play golf all over Whitefish!

Located near Whitefish Lake and Whitefish Mountain Resort, this town has lots to offer cultural fiends and sports enthusiasts, even if it lacks the ability to think up creative names. Whitefish really began growing as the railroad started laying down tracks in the early 20th century. Once an area marked by the railroad, logging, and farming industries, tourism and recreation are now two of the biggest defining forces in town. The town motto, "Montana's outdoor recreation playground," is reflective of the almost dizzying array of outdoor activities which range from skiing and fishing to golfing and hiking. Professional skiers as well as pro athletes in almost every sporting category from skateboarding to baseball hail from this Northwest corner of Big Sky Country. Although Whitefish Mountain Resort is technically just outside of the city limits, it is considered an important part of the community, providing winter sports for locals and drawing tourists into the area. Also nearby are Canada and the Glacier National Park. With neighbors like that it is obvious why it is best known for outdoors amenities even though it has no shortage of shopping, dining, and cultural opportunities.

Moving to Whitefish

Whitefish is technically located in a valley, giving it the superb view of the surrounding mountains and the type of Montana sky scenes for which the state is famous. That being said, its unique offerings and scenic views have spread to the tourist crowd who love to flock here during the winter, as well as the summer for its fishing and Whitefish City Beach, which offers boat rentals and picnic areas. The busy tourist scene has created a demand for rental properties which turn over frequently, giving the area especially high vacancies between the prime winter and summer seasons, and thus making those the ideal times to search for a home.

Cost of Living

Real estate in Whitefish is higher than average for the state of Montana, but still very affordable when considered nationally. Plus, there is no sales tax, which offsets the slightly higher real estate prices. During your apartment search in Whitefish you can always look for properties with utilities included to further assist in keeping your monthly budget manageable.

Long Term Rentals

Many landlords know they can earn higher rent by reserving condos or apartments for nightly or weekly guests, so when searching for rental property in Whitefish make sure to specify long term rentals. With so much rental property reserved for short term renters, plan for 4 to 6 weeks to find your ideal rental property depending upon the season. In the off season some landlords who typically cater to vacationers may be swayed to offer you a 6 month lease to keep the property rented.

What You Need

Be prepared to fill out the applications that landlords seem to keep in abundant supply. Most require listing references, providing income verification, and agreeing to and paying for a credit check. Once you have jumped through the hoops and been selected to reside in one of Whitefish's rental condos or apartments be ready with the first and last month's rent or you may be starting your search all over again.

Neighborhoods of Whitefish

To understand the different offerings of Whitefish by area, as well as the change in the real estate scene, it is easiest to consider the town in terms of North and South with 2nd Street serving as the boundary separating the two. The city as a whole offers a mix of owners and renters with property sizes ranging from the petite studio apartment and up to the more spacious four bedroom home.

North Whitefish: This happening hotspot includes Whitefish Lake, Whitefish Mountain Resort, and Whitefish Lake Golf Course, meaning that there is lots to do but also lots of tourists. Many short term rentals will be concentrated in this area, so plan for it taking a bit longer to rent an apartment here.

South Whitefish: The Whitefish River flows down into this neighborhood also, offering water views along with the green space of Riverside Park, Memorial Park, and Baker Park. Those residing in this part of town are slightly removed from the busier areas but still have great neighbors like Buffalo Cafe and Third Street Market.

Living in Whitefish

Whitefish truly offers a bit of everything from sports, natural beauty, arts, and annual events. Living here allows locals to partake in these offerings year-round while getting to be part of the posse frequently asked for directions and recommendations by visitors.

The Arts

It may seem like every business and geographical feature may be named Whitefish, but this town is bursting with creativity and artistic attractions. The Alpine Theater Project and Whitefish Theater Company entertain stage lovers, while the Dick Idol Signature Gallery provides artistic creations for viewing.

Annual Events

The Winter Carnival is one of the town's most popular events and even includes a parade. Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, The Taste of Whitefish, First Thursdays Art walks, and Whitefish Woody Weekend are just a sampling of other events held by this fun-loving town.

Getting Around Town

As with many small towns there is no central public transportation, making access to four wheels important in getting around. Changes in weather and the limited area served by the bike path also limit the ability to get around by bike. Those living near the Whitefish Bike and Pedestrian Trail (aka Fish Trails) do live among enough businesses clustered together that walking or biking can cut down on the amount of driving that needs to be done.

If you love the outdoors, no matter what the temperature, you'll be happy to call Whitefish home!