Largest cities in Montana

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

Montana, known for its vast landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, is a state that offers a high quality of life and a strong sense of community. With a population of approximately 1.1 million, it ranks as the 43rd most populated state in the U.S. Montana has experienced steady population growth, reflecting its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Canada to the north, North Dakota and South Dakota to the east, Wyoming to the south, and Idaho to the west, Montana offers a variety of living environments across its roughly 129 cities and towns.

Living in Montana provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, excellent schools, and abundant natural beauty. The state's low population density allows for spacious living and a slower pace of life, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and community engagement. Montana's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. The state's stable population growth supports a balanced and sustainable development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Montana, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Montana cities by population, showcasing the state's most significant urban centers.

Billings Population: 113,244 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 113 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,584 Med. Household Income: $89,189

Billings, Montana, known as "The Magic City," is the largest city in the state and a thriving hub of culture and commerce. Located near the Yellowstone River and within driving distance of Yellowstone National Park, Billings offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of natural beauty and modern amenities makes living in Billings an attractive option for families and professionals.

Missoula Population: 77,349 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 76 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,646 Med. Household Income: $76,536

Great Falls Population: 60,209 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 59 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,625 Med. Household Income: $73,438

Bozeman Population: 49,943 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 52 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,489 Med. Household Income: $89,450

Butte-Silver Bow Population: 35,459 Livability Score: 60

Area Size: 1,854 KM² Density (sq mi): 50 Med. Household Income: $74,846

Helena Population: 33,820 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 43 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,044 Med. Household Income: $89,267

Kalispell Population: 24,848 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 31 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,094 Med. Household Income: $71,294

Havre Population: 9,938 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 10 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,679 Med. Household Income: $74,388

Belgrade Population: 9,499 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 10 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,495 Med. Household Income: $93,865

Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Population: 9,366 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 1,908 KM² Density (sq mi): 13 Med. Household Income: $63,841

Full list of the largest cities in Montana

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Billings	113,244	113	$89,189	80
2	Missoula	77,349	76	$76,536	79
3	Great Falls	60,209	59	$73,438	78
4	Bozeman	49,943	52	$89,450	85
5	Butte-Silver Bow	35,459	1,854	$74,846	60
6	Helena	33,820	43	$89,267	81
7	Kalispell	24,848	31	$71,294	72
8	Havre	9,938	10	$74,388	71
9	Belgrade	9,499	10	$93,865	79
10	Anaconda-Deer Lodge County	9,366	1,908	$63,841	73
11	Helena Valley Southeast	8,816	37	$89,707	63
12	Miles City	8,698	9	$80,101	77
13	Evergreen	8,660	22	$88,728	68
14	Lockwood	8,497	33	$91,531	59
15	Whitefish	8,333	17	$76,572	83
16	Helena Valley West Central	8,319	68	$109,665	64
17	Livingston	7,998	15	$66,723	77
18	Laurel	6,995	6	$83,463	70
19	Sidney	6,559	9	$88,139	74
20	Lewistown	6,107	15	$51,235	67
21	Columbia Falls	5,854	6	$71,202	68
22	Orchard Homes	5,688	15	$106,295	74
23	Glendive	5,228	9	$69,887	73
24	Polson	5,165	11	$59,293	53

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Montana, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.