Why Many Montana Homes Don’t Have A/C (And How to Keep Cool Without It)

If you're starting your home search in Bozeman, there's a good chance you’ve noticed something surprising: a lot of homes don’t have central air conditioning. For many buyers, especially those relocating from warmer, more humid parts of the country, that can be a bit of a shock.

But here in Montana, especially in Bozeman, A/C just hasn’t historically been a necessity. Thanks to our unique climate and a lifestyle that leans into natural rhythms, it’s entirely possible to enjoy summer comfortably and without the extra costs or upkeep of a central system.

Let’s take a deeper look at why so many Montana homes don’t have A/C, how to stay cool without it, and what to look for in a home if you’re planning to skip the system altogether.

What Is Bozeman’s Summer Climate Like?

Bozeman enjoys a high-altitude, semi-arid climate that brings warm, sunny days and crisp, cool nights, especially in the summer months. July is typically the warmest month, with average highs around 83°F, while August hovers closer to 79°F. Overnight temperatures often fall into the 40-50°F range, which provides a natural break from daytime warmth.

That consistent overnight cooling is one of the biggest reasons A/C hasn’t been standard in most Bozeman homes. Unlike regions where heat and humidity linger overnight, Bozeman cools down quickly after the sun sets.

How to Stay Cool Without Central Air Conditioning

If a home you love doesn’t have A/C, don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to stay comfortable. Here are some of the most effective and affordable strategies:

Open Windows at Night: Let cool air in after sunset and early in the morning. Then, close windows and blinds during the day to trap that cool air inside. If your home has multiple levels, keep the downstairs windows closed and open the upstairs windows to help draw warm air upward and promote better air circulation.
Use Fans Strategically: Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in the summer. Portable fans placed near windows can help draw cooler air through the home.
Block Direct Sunlight: Use blackout curtains or reflective shades to reduce heat gain during peak sun hours, especially on west- and south-facing windows.
Cook Smart: Avoid using the oven during hot afternoons and instead opt to utilize your grill.
Dress and Hydrate Wisely: Lightweight, breathable clothing and plenty of water can go a long way in helping your body stay cool.

Energy Cost Savings: How Much Can You Save Without A/C?

One of the more obvious benefits of going without air conditioning is the potential for real savings on your energy bills. On average, running a central A/C unit for 8 hours a day can add $100–$150 per month to your electric bill during the summer months. That means skipping A/C can save homeowners up to $450 over the course of a single summer.

Not only is this better for your wallet, it’s also more sustainable. Not to mention the cost of maintenance and repair of a central air system in a climate that reaches sub-zero temperatures in the winter months.

What to Look for in a Home That Stays Naturally Cool

If you're hoping to buy a home without A/C and still stay comfortable, there are a few architectural and design features that can make all the difference:

Orientation & Exposure: Homes with fewer west-facing windows and more north- or east-facing ones are less exposed to direct sunlight.
Single-Level Living: Since heat rises, single-story homes often remain cooler throughout the day compared to two-story layouts. Vaulted ceilings will aid in giving that hot air somewhere to go.
Cross Ventilation: Homes designed with windows on opposite sides allow for excellent airflow, especially with the help of ceiling or box fans.
Mature Trees & Landscaping: Natural shade from trees and shrubs can reduce solar heat gain significantly.
Light-Colored Exteriors: These reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat.
Well-Insulated Roofs and Attics: Quality insulation works both ways—it keeps the heat in during winter and the heat out during summer.

A Personal Perspective: Adjusting Expectations

When I first moved to Bozeman from the Midwest, I couldn't imagine living in a home without central air. Back home, A/C wasn’t a luxury, it was justa necessary standard. So, it genuinely surprised me when I realized my first two rental homes in Bozeman didn’t have it.

Even more surprising? I didn’t miss it. I never reached for the thermostat, because I never needed to. The home cooled down on its own each night, and with a fan and open windows, I felt comfortable even during the warmest stretches of summer.

Should You Rule Out Homes Without A/C?

If you’re shopping for a home in Bozeman, it’s worth keeping an open mind when it comes to air conditioning. Filtering out homes that don’t have central A/C can reduce your available options by as much as 50% and in a competitive market, that’s a significant limitation.

Many homes without A/C were built to take advantage of Bozeman’s natural cooling cycle. With a little creativity and a few updates, you can stay cool and comfortable while saving money on utilities. And honestly? If you're doing Montana summers right, you won't be home enough to miss it.

Looking for a Bozeman home that fits your lifestyle and the Montana climate? Let’s chat. I’d love to help you find something that checks the boxes—and keeps you cool in every way that matters.

Posted by Rachel Verdone on May 29th, 2025

Why Don't Homes in Bozeman, Montana Have Air Conditioning?