The “Big Sky Country,” Montana, is renowned for its vast open spaces, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor activities. The biggest cities in Montana in 2024 serve as both population centers and thriving centers of industry, education, and culture in this enormous state. Montana is one of the least populous states, but its cities—from the state capital of Helena to the vibrant college town of Bozeman—offer a variety of options. The main city, Billings, is an important center for healthcare and the economy, while Missoula is renowned for its academic influence, arts, and music. Every Montana city embodies the state’s distinct fusion of contemporary conveniences and rustic charm, which fuels its expansion and draws visitors who value its natural beauty.

In the United States, Montana is among the least populous states. When compared to the other states, its 1,052,343 residents place it 44th in terms of population.

There are 129 incorporated municipalities that are classified as cities or towns. These are dispersed throughout the state’s 56 counties.

List of 10 Most Populated Cities in Montana

1. Billings 122,077
2. Missoula 78,876
3. Great Falls 60,414
4. Bozeman 58,459
5. Butte-Silver Bow 36,077
6. Helena 35,204
7. Kalispell 31,540
8. Belgrade 13,115
9. Anaconda-Deer Lodge County 9,757
10. Whitefish 9,599

1. Billings

As the largest and most populous city in Montana in 2024, Billings serves as a vital center of the state’s economy and culture. Having 122,077 residents, it is the commercial, medical, and educational center of the area. 

Since its establishment as a railroad town in 1882, Billings has seen tremendous expansion, earning it the nickname “Magic City.” This expansion has accelerated its development into a thriving metropolitan region with a robust economy, mostly propelled by industries like retail, healthcare, energy, and agriculture.

Billings has a thriving cultural environment, which is further enhanced by its museums, theaters, music venues, and art galleries. Downtown Billings has also seen a comeback, with new eateries, breweries, and stores bringing life to the area for both locals and tourists. Some of the biggest medical institutions in Montana are located in Billings, which serves as the state’s healthcare hub and offers vital services to local areas. 

All things considered, Billings blends the natural beauty of Montana with expanding urban conveniences, creating a noteworthy and vibrant area to live and work.

2. Missoula

Montana’s second-largest city, Missoula, is home to 78,876 people and is renowned for both its beautiful surroundings along the Clark Fork River and its lively, diverse society. The University of Montana has contributed significantly to Missoula’s status as a center for the arts and education in Montana by bringing a young vibrancy, diversity, and cultural life to the city.

Outdoor recreation, retail, healthcare, and education all make significant contributions to Missoula’s multifaceted economy. Given easy access to locations like the Bitterroot Mountains and other national forests for pursuits like hiking, skiing, and river rafting, the city serves as a starting point for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Downtown Missoula, which is home to several cafés, breweries, art galleries, and historic buildings, is renowned for its vibrant environment. Local artists’ exhibitions at First Fridays and the yearly River City Roots Festival attract both locals and tourists.

3. Great Falls

Great Falls, which has a population of around 60,414, is one of Montana’s most populous cities in 2024. Because of its history of building power plants on the Missouri River, Great Falls is known as the “Electric City.” It is a significant hub for history, industry, and outdoor recreation. A commercial and cultural center for north-central Montana, its advantageous location along the river made it a major hub for trade and transportation in the area. 

The tourist, healthcare, and military industries all contribute to Great Falls’ economy. Malmstrom Air Force Base, which is located there, makes a substantial contribution to the society and economy of the area. The C.M. Russell Museum, which displays Charles M. Russell’s artwork and the history of the American West, is one of the museums, art galleries, and retail establishments in the city’s historic downtown. With trails, fishing sites, and picturesque locations like Giant Springs State Park all close by, Great Falls is also well-known for its accessibility to outdoor activities.

4. Bozeman

Bozeman, which has a population of around 58,459, is Montana’s fourth most populous and fastest-growing city in 2024. A popular destination for both residents and tourists, Bozeman is renowned for its vibrant blend of urban conveniences and wilderness adventure. A robust economy focused on tourism, education, technology, and outdoor recreation is driving the city’s expansion. Being the location of Montana State University, Bozeman attracts professionals, scholars, and students, adding to its vibrant culture and multicultural populace.

Both residents and tourists are drawn to Bozeman’s lively historic downtown, which is teeming with eateries, breweries, art galleries, and small businesses. It attracts outdoor enthusiasts since it serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park and renowned ski resorts like Big Sky. From hiking and skiing to fishing and climbing, the neighboring Bridger and Gallatin peaks provide year-round recreational options.

Bozeman is now known as a center of innovation in the Rocky Mountain area thanks to the city’s expansion, which has sparked new developments, including high-tech businesses and startups.

5. Butte-Silver Bow

Butte-Silver Bow, which has a population of about 36,077, is still one of Montana’s major cities in 2024. As a city that combines a strong sense of community with a deep historical background, Butte is unique in Montana and is well-known for its rich mining past. Butte, also known as “The Richest Hill on Earth,” was once one of the most important copper mining cities in the world. Elements of its mining history can be seen all throughout the city in headframes, old buildings, and the Berkeley Pit, an open-pit copper mine that is now an environmental site.

Beyond mining, Butte’s economy has expanded to include expanding industries like tourism, healthcare, and education. Visitors interested in the industrial legacy of the American West are drawn to the city by its history and architecture. In addition to distinctive stores and restaurants, downtown Butte is home to the Copper King Mansion, a remnant of the city’s mining past. One of the biggest cultural gatherings in the state, the Montana Folk Festival takes place in Butte every summer and features cuisine, crafts, and music from many cultures.

Butte, which is close to the Continental Divide, provides access to outdoor pursuits including skiing, fishing, and hiking.

6. Helena

The capital of Montana, Helena, is still a major metropolitan hub in 2024, with a population of about 35,204. Known for its thriving community life and historic buildings, Helena blends government, culture, and outdoor leisure in a picturesque environment. Helena was founded in the 1860s during the gold rush, and its history is closely linked to mining. The city’s distinctive attractiveness is enhanced by imposing structures like the Cathedral of Saint Helena and the Montana State Capitol, which are testaments to its former grandeur.

The public sector, healthcare, and education, as well as a burgeoning tourist industry, support Helena’s economy as the capital of Montana. There are many galleries, cafés, and stores in downtown Helena, and the famous Last Chance Gulch shopping center maintains its mining-town charm while providing contemporary conveniences. Both locals and tourists are drawn to cultural events like the Last Chance Stampede Rodeo and the yearly Symphony Under the Stars.

Helena, which is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, is tucked away between the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountains and has quick access to lakes, trails, and ski slopes. Helena is a unique and attractive city in Montana that strikes a balance between heritage and a forward-thinking attitude with its blend of history, breathtaking scenery, and social life.

7. Kalispell

Kalispell is one of Montana’s biggest and fastest-growing communities in 2024, with a population of almost 31,540. Kalispell, sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to Glacier National Park,” is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and environment lovers due to its breathtaking surroundings, which include Flathead Lake, the Swan Mountain Range, and Glacier National Park itself. Visitors swarm Kalispell all year long for outdoor pursuits, including hiking, fishing, boating, and skiing, which contributes to the town’s tourism-driven economy.

Kalispell serves as a center of the Flathead Valley’s economy because of its manufacturing, retail, and healthcare sectors. The city boasts a sophisticated healthcare system, which includes the sizable Logan Health Medical Center, which provides services to the surrounding area. Featuring art galleries, boutique stores, and neighborhood eateries that add to the area’s lively culture, downtown Kalispell blends historic elegance with contemporary conveniences. A favorite among locals and visitors alike is the Hockaday Museum of Art, which features local artwork and Montana’s artistic legacy.

The balanced lifestyle of Kalispell attracts more and more new inhabitants with its blend of natural beauty, rising facilities, and cultural attractions. Because of its distinct blend of outdoor accessibility and small-town charm, Kalispell is a vibrant aspect of Montana’s metropolitan landscape.

8. Belgrade

Belgrade has developed into one of Montana’s most prominent communities by 2024, with around 13,115 residents. Belgrade, which sits in the Gallatin Valley just outside of Bozeman, is a well-liked destination for families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts due to its small-town charm, strong sense of community, and growing facilities. Both new residents and companies are drawn to this handy and desirable area due to its close proximity to Bozeman and the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.

By expansions in retail, education, construction, and services, Belgrade’s economy is diversified. In order to meet the requirements of an expanding population, the city has developed, as seen by new housing developments, local businesses, and schools. Locally owned stores, eateries, and cafés abound throughout Belgrade’s center, lending the neighborhood a friendly vibe.

Hiking, skiing, fishing, and camping are among the outdoor activities that locals enjoy because of the easy access to neighboring recreational regions, such as the Bridger and Gallatin mountain ranges. 

9. Anaconda-Deer Lodge County

Anaconda-Deer Lodge County is one of Montana’s distinctive cities in 2024 with over 9,757 residents. Situated at the base of the Anaconda Range, this combined city-county is renowned for its picturesque scenery, small-town charm, and rich mining history. In the late 19th century, businessman Marcus Daly founded Anaconda as a smelting town, and it was an important part of Montana’s copper economy. A historical monument and a representation of the town’s industrial past is the imposing Anaconda Smelter Stack, one of the highest freestanding brick buildings in the world.

Anaconda’s economy has diversified, generating income from tourism, healthcare, and outdoor leisure, even if mining is no longer the main source of income. The downtown area of the city is home to the Washoe Theater, a well-maintained Art Deco monument, as well as local stores, cafés, and historic buildings. Due to its close vicinity to natural landmarks like Georgetown Lake, the Pintler Wilderness Area, and the Discovery Ski Area, Anaconda offers a wealth of outdoor recreation choices, including boating, hiking, fishing, and skiing.

Through events like Smeltermen’s Day, the town honors Anaconda’s history and local culture while uniting its citizens. The rich and hospitable Montana experience is provided by Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, which combines history, outdoor recreation, and community pride.

10. Whitefish

Whitefish, which has around 8,000 residents, is one of Montana’s most well-known and quickly expanding communities. The city, which is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and year-round outdoor recreational options, is tucked away at the base of Big Mountain and next to the immaculate Whitefish Lake. With skiing and snowboarding in the winter and biking, hiking, and fishing in the summer, Whitefish is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is a well-liked starting point for exploring the untamed landscapes of Glacier National Park because of its proximity to the park.

Despite having a small population, Whitefish’s economy is centered on real estate, tourism, and hospitality, with an increasing number of establishments serving both locals and tourists. The city has a lively and friendly vibe because of the downtown area’s abundance of bustling stores, eateries, cafés, and art galleries. The Whitefish Mountain Resort makes a substantial economic contribution to the community and is a major attraction for both residents and visitors.

Whitefish is renowned for its active lifestyle and strong sense of community. Numerous cultural events are held in the city, including music festivals and the Whitefish Winter Carnival. 

Rank	City	Population
1	Billings	122,077
2	Missoula	78,876
3	Great Falls	60,414
4	Bozeman	58,459
5	Butte-Silver Bow	36,077
6	Helana	35,204
7	Kalispell	31,540
8	Belgrade	13,115
9	Anaconda-Deer Lodge County	9,757
10	Whitefish	9,599

Conclusion

The most populated cities in Montana combine access to breathtaking natural scenery, economic expansion, and historical significance. Bozeman and Missoula provide lively college-town vibes supported by outdoor recreation and expanding digital businesses, while Billings, the state’s largest city, propels the economy with its healthcare, energy, and retail sectors. Along with contemporary conveniences, Great Falls and Helena provide a wealth of cultural and historical legacy. While Whitefish provides a resort-town lifestyle, smaller communities like Kalispell and Belgrade survive on tourism and natural beauty. These communities work together to create Montana’s varied urban landscape by striking a balance between history, expansion, and a close relationship with the state’s untamed natural environs.

FAQs

What is Montana’s Largest City?

Montana’s largest city, Billings, is expected to have 122,077 residents in 2024.

Which Montana City Has the Quickest Rate of Growth?

With a 5.53% yearly growth rate since 2020, Kalispell has been Montana’s fastest-growing city for the last four years.

Which 10 Montana Cities Are the Biggest?

Butte-Silver Bow, Helena, Kalispell, Belgrade, Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, Whitefish, Bozeman, Missoula, Great Falls, and Billings are Montana’s ten biggest cities.

Which Montana City Has the Highest Crime Rate?

Despite its modest size, Wolf Point is a difficult location to live in because of its high violent crime rate.

Which Montana City is the Poorest?

Having over 18% of the population living below the poverty line, Bozeman is the poorest city in Montana, according to the census.