Emigrant is at the base of a mountain range containing Emigrant Peak, which is where it got its name. Thomas Curray discovered gold in Emigrant Gulch in 1862. The hot springs in the area provided trappers and prospectors bathing facilities. The first post office was established in 1872 until 1876. It reopened in 1911 with August Anderson as postmaster.
Emigrant is located in south-central Montana, north of Yellowstone National Park on U.S. Highway 89.