Largest cities in Montana

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: 109,705 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 113 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,448 Med. Household Income: $60,032

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: 74,994 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 76 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,165 Med. Household Income: $50,947

Great Falls Population: 58,717 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 59 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,539 Med. Household Income: $49,809

Bozeman Population: 48,330 Livability Score: 87

Area Size: 52 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,324 Med. Household Income: $59,695

Butte-Silver Bow Population: 34,263 Livability Score: 58

Area Size: 1,854 KM² Density (sq mi): 48 Med. Household Income: $49,659

Helena Population: 32,655 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 43 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,939 Med. Household Income: $60,074

Kalispell Population: 23,935 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 31 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,926 Med. Household Income: $47,750

Havre Population: 9,739 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 10 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,626 Med. Household Income: $50,635

Belgrade Population: 9,184 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 10 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,134 Med. Household Income: $62,335

Anaconda-Deer Lodge County Population: 9,153 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 1,908 KM² Density (sq mi): 12 Med. Household Income: $42,129

Full list of the largest cities in Montana

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Billings	109,705	113	$60,032	77
2	Missoula	74,994	76	$50,947	80
3	Great Falls	58,717	59	$49,809	79
4	Bozeman	48,330	52	$59,695	87
5	Butte-Silver Bow	34,263	1,854	$49,659	58
6	Helena	32,655	43	$60,074	81
7	Kalispell	23,935	31	$47,750	70
8	Havre	9,739	10	$50,635	70
9	Belgrade	9,184	10	$62,335	77
10	Anaconda-Deer Lodge County	9,153	1,908	$42,129	72
11	Helena Valley Southeast	8,546	37	$59,541	63
12	Evergreen	8,416	22	$59,338	69
13	Miles City	8,372	9	$53,571	77
14	Lockwood	8,206	33	$62,572	62
15	Helena Valley West Central	8,042	68	$74,632	64
16	Whitefish	8,032	17	$51,821	82
17	Livingston	7,696	15	$44,591	77
18	Laurel	6,797	6	$56,902	70
19	Sidney	6,351	9	$60,284	73
20	Lewistown	5,923	15	$34,065	69
21	Columbia Falls	5,651	6	$48,427	68
22	Orchard Homes	5,480	15	$71,316	73
23	Polson	5,033	11	$39,604	53
24	Glendive	5,030	9	$47,541	74

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.