A quick overview: Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole and Big Sky are popular second-home destinations that offer stunning mountain backdrops, local charm and national park access. While each ski town sits in two different states, they’re just a 3.5-hour drive apart and connected by the Northern Rocky Mountains. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is bustling with 10,654 residents as of 2025, over three times that of Big Sky. The Jackson Hole Airport is a quick 15-minute ride from the town’s center and roughly 20 minutes from the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.The popular town caters to urban-minded nature lovers, and its center exudes deeply rooted Western culture at every turn. Annual attractions include the Grand Teton Music Festival, Jackson Hole Rodeo and Old West Days for a snapshot of local mountain life. Big Sky, Montana, houses a smaller population of 2,954 people and is more spread out than the urban-leaning Jackson Hole. The semi-remote town is nestled in an alpine valley surrounded by sweeping mountain views. The quaint yet lively town is best for a private, relaxed second-home experience, located 50 miles south of Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. However, Town Center and Mountain Village offer year-round dining, shopping and entertainment options.| Jackson Hole | Big Sky | |
| Population | 10,654 | 2,954 |
| Ski resorts | Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee Resort, Snow King | Big Sky Resort, Moonlight Basin (merged into a single resort) |
| Climate | Annual temperature range of 5 °F to 79 °F, 465 inches of annual snowfall | Annual temperature range of 3 °F to 72 °F, about 400 inches of annual snowfall |
| Year-round activities | Nearby access to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, skiing, hiking | Access to Yellowstone, skiing, hiking, whitewater rafting, scenic chairlift rides |
| Dining | Gun Barrel Steak and Game House, The Blue Lion, Snake River Grill | Everett’s 8800, Horn & Castle, Olive B’s Big Sky Bistro |
| Nightlife | Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, The Rose, Silver Dollar Bar | Lone Peak Brewery, The Standard, Tips Up Big Sky |
| Events | Grand Teton Music Festival, Jackson Hole Rodeo, Old West Days | Big Sky PBR Bull Riders Tour, Music in the Mountains Concert Series, Savor Big Sky Food & Wine Festival |
| Shopping centers | Jackson Town Square, Powderhorn Mall | Mountain Village Plaza, Huntley Local Shops, Big Sky Town Center |
| Cost of living | $11,160/month with an average home cost of $699,500 | $23,490/month with an average home cost of $1,470,800 |
| Healthcare | St. Johns Health, 24/7 emergency care services | Big Sky Medical Center, 24-hour emergency care |
Does Big Sky or Jackson Hole offer better skiing?
When considering Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole skiing amenities, compare the resorts’ acreage, number of lifts, tourist densities and overall cost. Big Sky is more varied and vast, over double the acreage of Jackson Hole. Big Sky offers a convenient network of lifts and a scenic tram, while Jackson Hole shines with challenging runs that sometimes require backcountry treks. Both receive over 400 inches of annual snowfall and are world-renowned as top ski destinations.| Jackson Hole | Big Sky |
| 2,500 acres of skiing terrain | 5,850 acres of skiing terrain |
| Vertical drop of 4,219 feet | Vertical drop of 4,350 feet |
| 465 inches of annual snowfall | 400 inches of annual snowfall |
| Lift tickets cost ~$185/day | Lift tickets cost ~$210/day |
| Best for expert skiers | Best for beginner and intermediate skiers |
Big Sky
Big Sky Resort is known for its variety and called “The Biggest Skiing in America” for good reason, boasting over 300 official runs on 5,850 acres of skiable terrain. The Lone Peak Tram lifts passengers 11,116 feet high, and a network of 39 additional lifts provides easy access to other runs in the massive range. The slopes are rated for all ski levels, from beginner-friendly routes like Lower Morning Star to challenging double black diamond runs like Big Couloir. The trails tend to be less crowded, and you can expect more than one acre of terrain for every skier, lending to a peaceful, wait-free experience.Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is nestled in the steep slopes of the Teton Range and stretches about 2,500 acres, with 133 named runs and comprehensive backcountry access. Only 10% of the resort’s trails are beginner-friendly, and there are only 13 lifts. The Aerial Tram climbs 10,450 feet in less than nine minutes and leads to the resort’s most famous runs. Ambitious runs bring ambitious crowds, so you can expect longer lines and heavier trail traffic during peak season. Teton Village is in the heart of the resort and is especially busy, but popular despite the crowding for advanced skiers chasing unforgettable descents into scenic powder drops.Year-round activities
Whether you’re living in Big Sky, Montana, vs. Jackson Hole, Wyoming, you can expect robust activities beyond the ski slopes. Both destinations host annual festivals, scenic tram views and outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking. Big Sky tends to be a few degrees cooler year-round and brings in fewer crowds, while Jackson Hole attracts tourists and has a slightly warmer summer season. The key difference between the two getaway mountain towns lies in the overall atmosphere. Big Sky has a calm, nature-focused pace, while Jackson Hole adds culture and a busier energy to the mix.
| Jackson Hole | Big Sky |
| Rafting, kayaking and fishing along the Snake River | Rafting, kayaking and fishing along the Gallatin River |
| Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival | Close proximity to Yellowstone National Park |
| Grand Teton Music Festival | Big Sky PBR Bull Riders Tour |
| Jackson Hole Rodeo | Big Sky PBR Bull Riders Tour |
| Old West Days | Savor Big Sky Food & Wine Festival |
Big Sky
Big Sky’s alpine meadows and evergreen forests bloom from late spring to early fall, best seen hiking or mountain biking through the region's 50 miles of scenic trails. The Big Sky tram offers relaxed views of Lone Mountain and its encompassing range, carrying passengers 9,024 feet to its summit. Big Sky is about an hour from Yellowstone National Park’s West Entrance, providing convenient access to the park’s most popular attractions, such as the Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful Geyser. Attractions beyond the skiing season include an annual summer concert series, food and wine festival and the annual Big Sky PBR event.Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole comes alive in the warmer months, offering experiences like horseback rides in the Teton mountain range to whitewater rafting adventures down the Snake River. Snow King Mountain is a popular summer attraction for families. The ski hill transforms into an adventure park that offers a roller coaster, zip line and mini-golf. Town Square hosts weekly farmers’ markets and outdoor concerts that showcase the destination’s Western traditions and crafts. The Jackson Hole Fall Arts festival features local creatives, food and music over the span of 12 days each September, with more offerings comparing Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole in the summer.
Community and culture
Community aspects in Jackson Hole vs. Big Sky break even in terms of outdoor recreational access and appreciation, but differ in many other ways. Jackson Hole is about three times larger in population than Big Sky and has more rooted cultural gatherings and festival lineups. Big Sky is home to just under 3,000 locals and therefore has a retreat-like, close-knit feel. While it draws tourist crowds and has foundational community services, it tends to be more sparse and quieter than its Jackson Hole counterpart.
| Jackson Hole | Big Sky |
| Larger community of over 10,000 residents | Smaller, more remote town of just under 3,000 residents |
| More active, activity-rich, higher diversity of residents | Friendly, relaxed, quiet, low-crime |
| Outdoor culture centered about the Tetons and south side of Yellowstone National Park | Outdoor culture centered around Yellowstone National Park’s west entrance |
Big Sky
Big Sky is a community-minded resort town where residents prefer to connect over long hikes and escape to the powdered slopes. Newcomers can expect a slow build on friendships, but one resident mentions “locals are pretty friendly and easy to get along with” and that “crime in Big Sky is pretty low,” so the community is welcoming. Nightlife and shopping options are fewer than in Jackson Hole, and Bozeman offers city conveniences about an hour away. Many locals prefer the neighboring city for gathering goods, stating that one should “be prepared to drive to Bozeman for most errands.”Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole is home to a blend of long-standing residents, nature enthusiasts and part-time owners who value culture as much as the great outdoors. This brings residents from all walks of life to the town and fuels a variety of activities year-round. One resident shares that “The community here is also great. There's always an event happening, music playing, some sort of competition going on, and other things to keep you occupied. We have some of the best restaurants in the region, too.”Dining and nightlife
Both Big Sky and Jackson Hole evoke the vision of a cozy, classy ski lodge serving perfectly balanced cocktails and tasty, decadent bites. You can have this in the resort areas of each town. However, the two differ in a few ways. Living in Big Sky, Montana, may be a challenge for residents who enjoy the novelty of a new restaurant or bar every week, with a smaller selection. But what it lacks in volume is made up for in quality, with specialty options like dinner and stargazing at the Montana Dinner Yurt or a Sleigh Ride Dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch. Jackson Hole has options for everyone, from tapas to sushi spreads. The town hosts the Jackson Hole Culinary Festival in June and the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Winter Fest in February as a way to showcase its culinary diversity. Most nightlife venues are in the town’s downtown on a walkable stretch of streets, while others are nestled in Teton Village.| Jackson Hole | Big Sky |
| Diverse dining options with a variety of cuisines available, from high-end restaurants to casual diners | Smaller, more curated dining scene |
| Larger nightlife scene | Very few bars in the town center |
Big Sky
Big Sky’s smaller culinary selection is carefully curated with both upscale and casual eateries. Fine dining options, such as Everett’s 8800 and Horn and Cantel, offer farm-to-table fare, including bison short ribs and wagyu burgers. Family-friendly spots like Cafe 191 and Blue Moon Bakery provide comfort classics such as hand-tossed pizza and chicken-fried steak.For a unique experience, the Montana Dinner Yurt hosts a three-course dinner and is only accessible by a snowcat that plows through a scenic stretch of alpine forest. According to a local family, activities expand beyond a simple meal: “In between courses, we went sledding down a hill near the yurt.”The most popular nightlife spot in town is Tips Up Big Sky, located in its center. You can expect shuffleboard and pool tables, live music and a diverse crowd in this cozy yet consistently busy hotspot. A visitor mentions that “Tips Up was on our list for one night out, but we ended up there just about every night! Apparently, it's 'the place' to go according to locals.”Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole has a broader food and nightlife scene due to its size, offering a wider range of options for residents. One standout restaurant is the Steadfire Chophouse, offering a pasture-to-plate menu that serves caviar, oysters royal and a selection of fine steaks in Teton Village. Those living in Jackson Hole and seeking an affordable, less touristy option can take a local’s suggestion: “Teton Tiger is the only restaurant that we’ve found consistently above average, and it’s one of the less outrageously expensive options.”
Cost of living
Whether you settle in Big Sky or Jackson Hole, you’re joining a highly coveted resort community, so prices are on the premium end. The cost of living in Big Sky Montana is a touch more affordable than Jackson Hole, but value is on the rise in both destinations. HOA fees, taxes and frequent seasonal turnover can also increase the overall cost of living, making both locales luxury destinations for buyers seeking mountain homes.
| Jackson Hole | Big Sky |
| Median cost of a residency in 2024: $3,644,769 | Median cost of a residency in 2024: $2,625,000 |
| Median cost of a house in 2024: $4,773,967 | Median cost of a home in 2024: $3,100,000 |
| Slightly elevated grocery costs but more store variety | Moderately elevated grocery costs and one main store, with more in nearby Bozeman |
Big Sky
According to Taunya Fagan’s Big Sky Real Estate Report, the median cost for a residence in Big Sky comes in at $2,625,000 as of Q4 of 2024. The median cost of a condo is nearly $2,000,000, and a home’s median is $3,100,000. This makes the cost of living in Big Sky, Montana, notably high for most buyers.There’s only one major grocery store and hardware store in town, and a local mentions the high prices which frequently drive residents to shop elsewhere: “Definitely do it in Bozeman. It's even worse than the typical resort markup. I saw a dozen eggs for $19 last week.”Jackson Hole
The cost of living in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, was recently analyzed in the Keller Williams 2024 Jackson Hole Market Report. According to the report, the average closing price of a home that calendar year was $3,644,769, and the average single-family home sold for $4,773,967. Inventory is limited and competitive, so buyers often need to begin their search early.Grocery and household stores are more numerous in Jackson Hole than in Big Sky. While prices are elevated, having options allows shoppers to better compare prices. A resident shares that “The cost of living is obviously elevated in Jackson, but there is still an Albertson’s, Smith’s, Whole Foods and Target which keeps pricing somewhat honest.”Healthcare and education
Big Sky and Jackson Hole each provide 24/7 emergency care, but Big Sky residents may need to travel to Bozeman for specialty services. Jackson Hole’s school system is larger and is home to a top-tier high school, while Big Sky’s district and student population remain comparatively small. Both locations offer families easy access to outdoor education and recreation.| Jackson Hole | Big Sky |
| Comprehensive in-patient and emergency services at St. John’s Health Campus | 24/7 emergency care and pharmacy services at Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center |
| #1 ranked public high-school in Wyoming | Intimate school district with a focus on immersive nature-focused education |
Big Sky
Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center provides 24/7 emergency care and pharmacy services in the Meadow Village region of Big Sky. For specialized care, residents often head to Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital, with one stating that “you will definitely have to go to Bozeman should you actually need a medical procedure or to be hospitalized.”Big Sky’s school system consists of Ophir Elementary, Ophir Middle School and Lone Peak High School. The student-to-teacher ratio ranges from 10 to 12 students per teacher, supporting more personalized learning. The district also offers experiential learning programs like Expedition Yellowstone, an immersive park experience for fourth graders.Jackson Hole
Living in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is ideal for those who want convenient, low-logistical healthcare. The St. John’s Health campus is comprehensive with full in-patient services, cardiology and surgery centers and cancer care. They also manage off-campus emergency centers conveniently located in Teton Village. Teton’s school district houses 2,800 K-12 students and has a student-to-teacher ratio of about 1:11, fostering strong classroom relationships. U.S. News & World Report named Jackson Hole High School as the #1 public high school in Wyoming for its high graduation and college readiness rankings.Housing
Both cities offer high-end real estate options suitable for an upper-income individual or family. Prices stay elevated due to the limited availability of properties, although recent developments in Big Sky have increased the number of available homes compared to Jackson Hole. Both towns boast scenic alpine views, and the luxury mountain homes designed to highlight them.
| Jackson Hole | Big Sky |
| Large-scale communities with quick access to skiing | Larger variety of housing options |
| More accessible with town homes and houses both expanding | Less accessible market with new development constraints |
Big Sky
Big Sky has several large-scale communities like Yellowstone Club and Moonlight Basin designed for skiers seeking quick slope access and amenities. Newer town homes can be found in Town Center and Meadow Village, which are steadily growing into more robust residential districts. The town is exclusive but more accessible for new residents than Jackson Hole. This is because of flexible local building codes and a resort tax that funds housing initiatives. You can also explore neighborhoods near the Gallatin River if you don’t mind driving 15 minutes to the slopes.Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole’s larger footprint comes with a wide variety of housing options, from luxurious homes in the prestigious John Dodge neighborhood to condos in the heart of downtown. The town center is walkable, and most areas are close to cultural attractions, making it best for those who prefer a livelier pace. However, housing inventory is extremely limited in Jackson Hole, largely due to building limitations designed to protect natural wildlife areas and ecosystems. Its proximity to world-class national parks and packed peak-season travel also makes it challenging to find consistent housing without a substantial investment.Big Sky vs. Jackson Hole: Which should you choose?
Living in Big Sky vs Jackson Hole comes down to your personal preferences. If you want the slow pace of a close-knit community on a rural stretch of paradise, Big Sky is best. If you want immersion into nature with access to amenities, Jackson Hole is more aligned to your lifestyle. If you’ve dreamed of living in a mountain paradise that most only visit but aren’t ready for a full-time commitment, Pacaso’s co-ownership model makes second home living accessible. Search for homes in Jackson Hole and enjoy luxury living at a fraction of the price.Big Sky vs Jackson Hole FAQ
01: Does Big Sky have easy airport access?
Big Sky is relatively close to the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), which is about an hour drive away from town. The airport regularly services flights to major hubs such as Denver, Chicago and Seattle.
02: Where do I find the best views in Jackson Hole?
Take the Jackson Hole Aerial tram for the best views in the village. The popular scenic ride rises nearly 11,000 feet high and can carry 100 people to the summit in about nine minutes.
03: What music festivals are in Big Sky?
Big Sky produces The Big Sky Music in the Mountains summer concert series that hosts about 10 shows annually. The Wildlands Festival and Big Sky Classical Music Festival also draw major acts and crowds.
04: Where’s the best food in Jackson Hole?
Jackson Hole is known for upscale dining at Steadfire Chop House, while locals especially recommend the Snake River Grill. The town has an impressive culinary footprint, with 10,000 residents and dozens of restaurants to accommodate a broad range of tastes.
