Does It Snow in Montrose, Colorado?

Yes, but not much compared with the mountain towns. NOAA's 1991–2020 normals for Montrose show average annual snowfall of about 21.5 inches, an average January high of about 40°F and a January low of about 17.5°F. The high-desert sun usually melts snow quickly in town, which is one reason many people pick Montrose for year-round living.

Figures are from NOAA's 1991–2020 climate normals and records for Montrose as compiled in the Wikipedia article on Montrose, Colorado, reviewed November 11, 2026. Conditions vary by elevation and location around the county, and every winter is different.

How cold does Montrose get in winter?

The normals list an average January high of 40.2°F and an average January low of 17.5°F. The record low on file is −27°F, in February. So winter nights are cold, but daytime highs above freezing are typical.

How much snow does Montrose get?

About 21.5 inches a year on average. The Wikipedia article describes Montrose as a semi-arid, high-grassland climate in the Uncompahgre Valley, where winter snow is usually short-lived because of the altitude and abundant sunshine. Total annual precipitation averages only about 9.3 inches.

What are summers like?

Hot and dry. The average July high is 90.2°F with lows near 59°F, and the record high on file is 106°F, in August. If you are buying, ask about cooling, shade and the irrigation setup for the yard.

How does Montrose compare with Gunnison and Crested Butte?

Elevation explains most of the difference. Montrose sits at about 5,807 feet, while Gunnison is about 7,700 feet and Crested Butte close to 8,900 feet. Here is the winter picture side by side, using the NOAA normals I have cited in my posts:

That gap is why some people live in Montrose and drive to the mountains to ski, and why heating and snow removal budgets look different in each town.

Do I need four-wheel drive in Montrose?

In town, many residents get by with good winter tires, since snow tends to melt quickly. If you plan to drive over the passes to Gunnison, Crested Butte, Ouray or Telluride in winter, a capable vehicle and good tires matter much more. Check road conditions at CoTrip.org before you go.

What should I check on a Montrose home for winter?

Montrose winters are milder, but freezing nights are still the norm from late fall into spring. I suggest asking:

• How is the home heated, and how old is the system? Ask for 12 months of utility bills.
• Are any pipes in exterior walls or crawl spaces? Freezing nights can still cause trouble.
• How is the irrigation system winterized? Ask who blows out the lines each fall.
• Which way does the driveway face? A north-facing driveway can hold ice longer.
• How old is the roof? Sun and temperature swings are hard on roofing.
• Is there shade and cooling for the summer heat?

Is Montrose a good place to live if I don't like snow?

For many people, yes. You get four seasons with much less snow to move than in the mountain towns, and the San Juans and Grand Mesa are within reach when you want winter. If you are comparing towns, see my Montrose vs. Gunnison post, and if you are thinking about retirement, see my post on retiring in Montrose.

How should I plan a winter move to Montrose?

Moving in winter is very doable here. A few tips I share with buyers:

• Schedule utilities early so the heat is on when you arrive.
• Plan the drive in daylight, especially if you are coming over a mountain pass, and check CoTrip.org the morning you leave.
• Protect your belongings. Ask movers how they handle freezing temperatures for plants, paint and electronics.
• Have the furnace serviced before or right after closing, and learn where the main water shutoff is.
• Line up snow help for the rare storm that lingers, especially if you travel.

Does winter affect the Montrose housing market?

Showings continue year-round because snow rarely lingers, but fewer buyers tend to be out in winter. Sellers who list now benefit from good photos, clear walks and a well-lit home. Buyers may face less competition. A local agent can show you current inventory.

What is the bottom line?

Montrose has real winters, with cold nights, but light snow that usually melts quickly and January highs near 40°F. Compared with Gunnison and Crested Butte, it is the mild end of our region. Ask about heating, irrigation winterizing and driveway exposure on any home, and you will be ready.

Frequently asked questions

Does it snow in Montrose, CO?

Yes. Montrose averages about 21.5 inches of snow a year, per NOAA's 1991–2020 normals.

What is the average January temperature in Montrose?

An average high of 40.2°F and an average low of 17.5°F.

What is the elevation of Montrose, CO?

About 5,807 feet.

Is Montrose warmer than Gunnison in winter?

Yes. Montrose's average January low is 17.5°F, versus −6.4°F in Gunnison.

Connect with a great real estate agent in Montrose, Kelsey Loftis with Crystal Peak Properties, Brokered by eXp Realty. Phone: (970) 784-6768 · Email: kelseyloftis@gmail.com · Website: crystalpeakproperties.com

Sources: NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals and records for Montrose, as compiled in the Wikipedia article on Montrose, Colorado (reviewed November 11, 2026); NOAA normals for Gunnison and Crested Butte as cited in my posts of October 28 and November 11, 2026. General information only.