The best ski towns to live in

Sometimes, the urge to change your zip code to a mountain address is just too great. Your once-a-year shred isn’t enough. You want double-figure riding days under your belt instead. So, you think about the dream that beats all others: moving to a ski town.

But where should you put down roots? Is it the small town with the deepest pow or a grander affair with spas and craft-beer-serving microbreweries on your doorstep? Of course, the quality of the mountain matters. However, it’s also essential to consider other factors, such as après-ski, amenities, and awesome vibes. 

Good thing, then, we’ve put together a list of the best ski towns to live in. These destinations offer something for everyone – from close-knit communities to outrageous nightlife and, of course, killer riding. So, browse, bookmark, and book those property viewings. And why stop there with the newness? Move into your dream home with a fresh ski jacket and pair of ski pants – nothing like new threads for a new town. 

Best ski towns to live in

Whitefish - Montana

Fancy soaking up high-style Western vibes on the outskirts of Glacier National Park? That’s what you get in Whitefish, Montana – and we dig it. Of course, there’s also plenty of time to ski and snowboard. 

This awesome and friendly small town is home to the equally awesome 3,000-acre Whitefish Mountain Resort, which gets over 25 feet of snow per year. It’s unpretentious, untamed, and full of unbelievably rad terrain. What better way to serve a ski resort than that, right? It’s often called Big Mountain, and it’s easy to see why with 3,000 acres of jaw-dropping terrain and over 50% of the terrain marked as black diamond or double black diamond. 

Whitefish is steadily leveling up with brand-new groomers and glade projects. And down in town (via a free skier shuttle from the mountain), there are cafes, fine dining restaurants, breweries and distilleries, shops, and so much more. Don’t worry – Whitefish still has a firm hold on its wild, untamed style. If you’re an advanced rider, check out the Picture Chutes and come face to face with Whitefish’s wildness. A mellow run, this is not. 

North Conway - New Hampshire

If you’re going to pick a ski resort to live in, it might as well be the OG. Yep, North Conway is where skiing began in North America. It’s drenched in ski history (skistory?) – and places don’t get more authentic (or gnarly) than here. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice on where to ski – North Conway has six ski resorts within a 30-minute drive, including Cranmore and Wildcat. Plus, the town has cafés and restaurants galore, such as Frontside Coffee Roasters and Thompson House Eatery. Have friends and family come to shred? Treat them to a room in Pinkham Notch’s luxurious Glen House. 

If you’re more of a hardcore off-piste rider than a hardcore coffee drinker, fear not. North Conway delivers on that front. Wilderness is still raw here, and Granite Backcountry Alliance has developed an incredible network of backcountry ski areas around the state. So, you’ll never be short of places to earn your turns and claim those first tracks. 

Taos - New Mexico

Set up camp in Taos, and you’ll make a home in a world-class ski resort AND a World Heritage Site (Taos Pueblo). And that’s not all of Taos’s flexes. The Southwest's history is also strongly reflected in its art, culture, and cuisine. Plus, Taos Ski Valley is only 18 miles outside of town with some of the US’s most stellar steeps and light, dreamy powder. 

Rip that Rocky Mountain pow to your heart’s content and without worry, because Vail and Aspen’s thronging crowds won’t follow you out here. Then, when your legs are jelly, take your powder-fuelled grin downtown and marvel at this ski town’s unique adobe architecture.

If your legs give you a hard time after shredding and a downtown stroll, take them to the Edelweiss Lodge and Spa. This ski-in, ski-out lodge and spa has everything you need to rest, recover – and repeat! Before you shred the pow again, though, head to La Cueva Café. Their chipotle shrimp tacos are worth moving here for alone! 

Vail - Colorado

Whatever ski trip you’re planning (even if it’s a permanent move), add Vail to the list. This ski town is the perfect point to access Vail Ski Resort, Colorado’s biggest ski area. And honestly, there’s something for every type of rider here – from those who love steep, deep, and endless pow shots to those who are just starting their riding journey. There’s also something for the skiers and snowboarders who prefer to cover lots of ground shopping instead of shredding. 

And we’re not kidding when we say there’s a lot of mileage to cover on the hill. How about 5,289 acres and 3,450 feet of vertical drop? That should set you up for living here season after season. And, when it’s time for a day off, there’s plenty to do. Sip cocktails alongside celebs or visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum with fellow mountain addicts, for example. Just be prepared for things to be on the pricey side – including your season lift ticket. 

If you want to mix things up, Vail delivers. Swap Colorado vibes for something more Continental with Alpenrose, a European bakery and restaurant in Vail Village. Gorge on Austrian and German dishes before continuing the theme with a visit to Sonnenalp. This German-style hotel effortlessly blends European ski town vibes with dashes of the Old West. Trust us – it’s a combo worth seeing. 

Ogden - Utah

Why not live at the gateway to greatness? That’s what you get with Ogden. Yep, this might be Utah’s oldest city. Still, it’s in the perfect position for Powder Mountain (the US’s largest ski resort), Nordic Valley, and Snowbasin Resort. 

That means there’s a total of 11,600 skiable acres at your fingertips with over 40 feet of snowfall per year. That’s a lot of PBs on Strava and plenty of powder-initiated ‘yews’ winter after winter. And don’t worry if you don’t have a set of wheels. You can access all three ski areas by public transport from downtown Ogden. When you’re done riding, head to the infamous Shooting Star Saloon (opened in 1879) or stroll down the historic 25th Street for a cocktail and comedy show. 

When summer rolls around, there are nearly 40 parks nearby. So, fill your non-snow months with hiking, kayaking, biking, and more. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder Ogden is one of the most livable ski towns on the planet. And, if you weren’t convinced already, it’s also one of the most affordable. 

Jackson - Wyoming

Like Ogden, Jackson is the perfect place to access three killer ski resorts. Live in the laid-back Jackson, and you’ll have quick access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee Resort, and Snow King Mountain. That’s boat-loads of backcountry and a hella-deep snowpack to play with. 

Of course, Jackson Hole is the most famous of the three. After all, it has 2,500 rideable acres with a leg-shaking 4,139 feet of vertical drop. It’s the pinnacle of American shredding. If the crowds get too much, go to Grand Targhee or Snow King instead. And ski resorts aren’t all Teton County offers. It’s also home to the awe-inspiring Yellowstone National Park and the mighty Grand Teton. For the park’s best views, take Jackson Hole’s aerial train to Rendezvous Mountain. Then, ride down the hair-raising Corbet’s Couloir – but only if you can handle one of North America’s steepest runs. 

Once the lifts have shut and you’re back in Jackson (a 12-mile drive away), you’ll notice how rugged and remote it feels, surrounded by forests and wild mountain ranges. However, there’s plenty here to keep you busy. Head downtown to the bars, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and shops that don’t shy away from their Wild West heritage. For example, why not down a cold one while sitting in a horse's saddle at the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar? It’s 100% somewhere Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone wranglers would hang out (well, when they’re not in Bozeman). 

Bozeman - Montana

Settle in Bozeman, and you’re less than an hour from Montana’s best ski resorts and wildest mountains: Bridger Bowl and Big Sky Resort. Expect steep, big-mountain riding and expert-only, backcountry-style terrain. However, beginners and intermediates will also find plenty of runs to keep them happy. And don’t forget that Yellowstone National Park is just a 60-minute drive away, offering insane wildlife watching, breathtaking scenery, and cross-country skiing. Keep an eye out for those cowboys, too. 

Bozeman’s stellar mountain community creates a special small-town feel: spot the locals by their duct-tape-covered ski gear or cowboy hats. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded outdoorsy souls here, and where better to bump into them than in one of the local breweries or on the hill in the area’s infamous waist-deep pow? Yep, Bozeman’s a wonderful, unique mix of old-school rancher vibes and brewpubs.

If you’re a fan of winter, Bozeman delivers with an average of 5 feet of snow downtown and as much as 33 feet up in the mountains. The winter months can be seven months long here – so buckle in. And when summer finally makes an appearance, there’s plenty of hiking and mountain biking to do with your new pals. And you’ll quickly see why Bozeman is known as the adventure capital of the Northern Rockies. 

Telluride - Colorado

Like the sound of living in a buzzing National Historic Landmark District surrounded by the stunning San Juan Mountains’ 14,000-foot peaks? We thought so. Welcome to the picturesque and ‘wow’-worthy Telluride.

What used to be an old Victorian mining town has been transformed into a premier hub of gourmet restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shops. Yet, it keeps that authentic Western charm for guaranteed good times and a laid-back community vibe. Oh, and it’s also a mecca for skiers and snowboarders, with 2,000 acres of rideable terrain and a 4,425-foot vertical drop. 

Families flock to Telluride thanks to the many beginner trails, but pros also head here for the satisfying, long steeps. Plus, there’s big powder throughout winter (around 24 feet per year). Pair that with plenty of sunshine and jaw-dropping views, and you’ll be grinning all day. Then, when your eyes are done feasting on the scenery, just hop on the free gondola back downtown for a drink in the New Sheridan Hotel’s Historic Bar – the oldest in Telluride. 

Killington - Vermont

Sometimes, après-ski is what you crave. And who can blame you? There’s nothing else quite like it. Enter Killington – the biggest ski resort east of the Mississippi and one of the US’s best towns for nightlife. 

For the ultimate Killington nightlife experience, set your sights on the Wobbly Barn Steakhouse and Nightclub. Expect parties and live music well into the early hours. And when your head’s a bit sore the next day, what better way to mellow out than by embracing Killington’s charm? Take a sleigh ride, visit a spa, or feast on sushi (if your hangover can handle it!). 

You might want to make sure you’re feeling fresh for next-morning freshies, though. Killington has over 21 feet of snow per year, 1,526 acres of rideable terrain, and 3,050 feet of vertical drop. No wonder it’s called ‘The Beast of the East’. It’s also one of the East Coast’s first mountains to open and last to close. So, expect your buddies to crash on your couch from early November into May. 

Bend - Oregon

Now, you might be set on shredding every day, but some say variety is the spice of life. And that’s where Bend, Oregon, can deliver. After all, there aren’t many other places where you can float in waist-deep powder in the morning before spending your afternoon rock climbing world-class routes or golfing on pristine fairways. Yep, the wilderness reigns supreme here, with access to fishing, hiking, biking, and plenty of other outdoor activities all year round. 

Okay, Bend itself doesn’t get much snow – well, it is in a desert. However, it’s only 22 miles from Mount Bachelor, one of the US’s largest ski resorts. This ski resort is not to be sniffed at, with over 4,323 acres of lift-accessible terrain offering world-class riding and 38.5 feet of snow per year. There are also backcountry-style double-blacks, a mile-long terrain park, and two halfpipes. Trust us: it’s a rider’s dream in the Pacific Northwest. 

If you want to froth over froth rather than fresh pow, however, Bend is all about beer. In fact, it’s known as ‘Beer City USA’ and holds countless breweries, such as Deschutes Brewery (the fifth-biggest craft brewery in the world!) and the Crux Fermentation Project. However, this lively town is also heaven for families with its Bend-blend of arts, cafès, and boutiques. 

Truckee - California

Few places come better than Truckee, California. On average, it has 275 days of California sunshine paired with over 33 feet of snowfall per year and a whopping 12 ski resorts within a 15-mile radius, including the incredible Palisades Tahoe, Northstar, and Sugar Bowl. If that wasn’t enough, it’s also next door to the insanely Insta-worthy Lake Tahoe. What more could you ask for?

Well, maybe some hard stuff after time in the white stuff? Truckee’s got you. Head to Old Town Tap for beer and pizza or Uncorked for a touch of vino. If you’re more into staying outdoors, don’t worry. Nature’s your backyard here with access to camping, horseback riding, salmon and trout fishing, and so much more all year round. You’ll soon see why Truckee is where the locals choose to live. 

And how cool would it be to pack up the car and go for a weekend summer shred? Well, if you want to live somewhere that offers snow long after winter, Truckee is the ultimate spot. It's just a three-hour drive to Mammoth Mountain, which sometimes closes as late as July! So, you could be horseback riding on a Fourth of July morning before skiing or snowboarding in the afternoon and watching the fireworks in the evening. Name a better itinerary than that! 

Stowe - Vermont

New England’s Stowe is often called ‘the ski capital of the East’, and it’s easy to see why. With approximately 26 feet of annual snowfall across 485 rideable acres designed for all riding abilities at Stowe Mountain Resort, there’s no better place on the East Coast to get your laps in. Set up home in the picturesque town (a 15-minute drive away), and you’ll feel like you’re in a movie with its malt shops, parades, and cute steepled churches. 

And on whiteout days, there’s more than enough to do. Head to Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa for some hardcore relaxation or The Alchemist (one of the US’s top microbreweries) for a pint or two. If your heart’s set on hops, carry on at Doc Ponds, where you can sample some of Vermont’s best beers. There’s also the Idyltime Brewing Company, where you can refuel after a day’s riding with a made-on-site beer and burger. If you fancy something fancier, though, you’re in luck – Stowe has more three and four-star restaurants than any other Northeast ski town. 

Prioritize backcountry over brasseries and boutiques? Stowe offers some of the finest off-piste and backcountry areas in the East. Try the GOAT, fittingly called the Goat. This off-piste line is steep, slender, and sure to challenge you. And, if you get the itch to explore new places, set your sights on Smugglers’ Notch. This awesome ski resort is just over an hour’s drive from Stowe and is full of stashes just watching to be discovered.

Park City - Utah

Want somewhere that offers rustic charm and modern touches? Take a look at Park City, a former mining town now home to the annual Sundance Film Festival. Yep, movie stars and film addicts flock here for the festival and Park City’s fine dining, luxury lodging, spas, and shopping. But it’s not all about the movie scene. There’s also a heavy dose of stunning scenery, as well as plenty of opportunities to shred some of the best powder around.

Base yourself in Park City, and you’re near two of the world’s top resorts: Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. The US Ski Team trains at both, and you’ll have your pick of the finest terrain. Go big with Park City Mountain Resort – one of the largest ski areas in the US at 7,300 acres – or head for the less crowded and beginner-friendly Deer Valley (2,000 acres). 

Watch out if you’re a fan of one plank: Deer Valley doesn’t allow snowboarding. Instead, it offers gourmet restaurants and meticulously maintained groomers for skiers. Park City Mountain Resort welcomes all types of riders with four terrain parks, well-rounded terrain, night-skiing, and bowls full of that incredible desert-dry powder to slice up lap after lap. Down in Park City, you’ll want to make High West Saloon your watering hole: it’s one of the few ski-in, ski-out distilleries in the world! 

Breckenridge - Colorado

How awesome to say you live in the resort home to North America’s highest chairlift AND the highest distillery on the planet (Breckenridge Distillery)! Live in Breckenridge – or ‘Breck’ as the locals call it (which you’ll soon be) – and that’s what you can say. 

But, even though this resort’s claim to fame is reaching new heights, its charm and community are surprisingly down to earth. And, of course, there’s first-class riding at Breckenridge Ski Resort. But that’s not all this ski town offers. There are also distilleries, breweries, restaurants, galleries, shops, and so much more. So, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you want a rest day. 

And, once you’re done with Breckenridge’s five peaks and insane mix of beginner to advanced and expert runs, just hop on the Summit Stage bus to explore new terrain. This free service takes you to Keystone and Copper Mountain, where you’ll find new riding opportunities abound.

Santa Fe - New Mexico

‘Hey, that’s not a ski town’, we hear you say! But bear with us. Yes, America’s second-oldest ski town might seem more like a summer destination, but you’d be missing an absolute gem. You see, Santa Fe is just 16 miles from Ski Santa Fe – an absolute corker of a ski resort with over 80 trails, plenty of pow, and zero crowds. 

Back in town, you’ll be up to your eyeballs with things to see and do. First, there’s Sazón, the upscale, unbeatable Mexican fare, and Meow Wolf, a psychedelic living museum. Then, head into the Palace of the Governors for a culture plunge. In this gallery, Native American artists display their original jewelry, artwork, and ornaments. And, when it’s cocktail time, make a beeline for Secreto in the historic plaza. 

Santa Fe is one of the cheapest options for full-time ski town living. The median home price is around $310,000 – an absolute steal compared to Jackson Hole’s $1.4 million! It’s enough to make you smug. Well, that and the fact you can down huevos rancheros in the morning before laying fresh tracks through the glades, spotting only about 40 other riders all day. World-class riding in your backyard without paying a premium? Sign us up! 

Wrapping up 

We’re not going to lie – that’s quite a hard list to choose from. In our opinion, there’s only one way to decide: go on a grand old tour and try out each ski town! Are you feeling the towns that buzz all-year round or the more mellow affairs with a deep-rooted passion for powder? 

As you make your way down the list, you’re sure to find somewhere that feels like home. And promise us one thing – don’t wait until retirement to make the move! Instead, seize the day, charge that face, and rip that powder – AKA, make the mountain your home ASAP. Just don’t forget to invite us to the housewarming party, okay? 

Related reading:

• The 25 best ski resorts in Canada
• Women's ski jackets / Women's ski pants
• How to plan the perfect ski trip