Since the premiere of the show "Yellowstone" in June of 2018, the western Montana region setting the backdrop to the show has grown in popularity. With Kevin Costner cast as the lead, John Dutton, the modern-day western has captivated the American viewing audience. With a storyline full of drama, family loyalty, and power grabs, each episode leaves the viewers anxiously waiting for the next episode.
While there is no data on the impact the show has had on the popularity of the region. Real estate numbers and national park attendance seem to indicate the greater Yellowstone area has become quite popular. The Wall Street Journal recently named Billings as the No. 1 emerging housing market in the United States. The Gallatin Association of Realtors reported a median home price increase of 24% from September 2020 to September 2021 in the Bozeman area. Not to be outdone by housing booms, Yellowstone National Park saw record-breaking numbers each month in the summer of 2021 with July setting the all-time record at just over 1 million visitors.
Filming has been good for the local economy. Casting extras, renting facilities, hiring security, and dining at local establishments have generated revenue on the local level. Breath-taking views aren't the main reason film production crews have made the move to Montana. The Montana Economic Development Industry Advancement (MEDIA) Act came into effect in 2019 giving incentives to production companies who film in Montana.
Locals have enjoyed spotting cast members around town and being extras in the show. With the prequel 1883 spin-off series recently announced, locals, are excited to see how Paramount Productions will showcase Montana. We don't know what is in store for the Dutton Family in season four, but we do know we won't be missing a single episode.
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