Moving to Montana statistics (2024 data)

How many people move to Montana?

In 2023, an estimated 36,775 people moved to Montana, while 36,822 moved out. This represents a net loss of 47 residents. Despite having the eighth smallest population in the U.S., Montana had the 13th highest net positive migration between 2021 and 2022.

Montana has become increasingly popular to move to, especially after the remote work boom in 2020. However, the state’s overall sparse population and amenities have prevented it from achieving the same popularity as states like Florida or Texas. According to a recent ConsumerAffairs study based on a sample of 143,506 ConsumerAffairs.com users who expressed an interest in moving between January 2023 and March 2024, Montana ranked as the 21st most desired for relocation.

Top 5 cities that people moved to in Montana

Montana ranks as the 26th best U.S. state to move to in 2024 based on weighted factors like safety and quality of life. Though the state has high desirability for movers interested in the breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, the combination of expensive housing and lower-than-average median household income likely prevents a higher rating. Regardless, Montana has experienced net positive migration for some time, adding 123,000 new residents between 2013 and 2022.

Of those moving to Montana, the majority are relocating to cities and towns on the western, more mountainous side of the state. This showcases how the desire for beautiful scenery drives much of the state’s migration. Kalispell attracted the most new residents, adding 5,149 (20.8% growth) between 2020 and 2023. Bozeman and Billings also added 3,763 and 3,714 new residents, respectively.

The top five Montana cities people moved to between 2020 and 2023 were the following:

Why do people move to Montana?

Unlike many other U.S. states, affordable housing and job opportunities are not the primary draw for Montana-bound migrants. Instead, moves to the state have largely been driven by wealthier Americans and remote workers. For example, only 14% of Montana’s labor force work from home, while some of the most moved-to counties, including Gallatin County, Flathead County and Missoula County have work from home rates of 18%, 17% and 16.9%, respectively.

However, the state’s in-person job market still attracts movers. The largest industries in the state are trade, transportation, and utilities, government, and education and health services. Collectively, these industries employ over 53% of nonfarm workers. The fastest-growing industry in the state is construction, growing by 10.1% between July 2023 and July 2024.

Montana housing statistics

With a median rent price of $1,435.28 and a median home sale price of $514,900, there’s a significant disparity between the affordability of Montana rentals and home purchases. Renters can expect to spend slightly less than the national median, while prospective homeowners may spend at least 22.5% more than the national median to purchase a home.

Luckily, Montana has a lower-than-average property tax rate at 0.74%. The state’s tax rate ranks as the 18th lowest in the country and is roughly half that of Pennsylvania. Montana’s property tax rate is similar to that found in California (0.75%).

In 2021, the average property owner in Flathead County (Kalispell, MT) paid $2,479 in annual property taxes. In general, the average property tax paid in Montana varies greatly by county, with residents in Missoula County paying an average of $3,302 annually in 2021, while those in Wibaux County paid much less at an average of $822.

Cost-of-living statistics in Montana

Montana’s cost-of-living index is 103.7, making it slightly more expensive than the national average. Gas prices in the state follow this trend, at an average of $3.40 per gallon, or 5.6% higher than the national average ($3.26). This is the case despite a lack of green alternatives, as Montana ranks as only the 35th most green state in the country.

While Montana’s cost-of-living index is higher than average, the state’s median household income of $68,367 is 9.3% less than the national median of $75,358. Unemployment, however, is less (3.1%) than the national average of 4.2%.

The dichotomy between Montana’s expensive home prices and lower-than-average median household income can largely be explained by recent remote working trends. The Big Sky Country offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains that would attract any would-be mover, but with a sparse population, it can be difficult to find local job opportunities. That isn’t the case for remote workers.

In 2020, many workers with high-paying remote jobs relocated to Montana. Home prices swelled, while wages for employees in the state have remained stagnant. For instance, Montana’s home values increased 50% between 2020 and 2022, a significant acceleration from the 13.7% growth experienced between 2018 and 2020.

Who lives in Montana?

An estimated 1,132,812 people live in Montana as of 2023, making it the 43rd largest state in terms of population. This represents a population increase of 9,934 people compared to 2022.

Montana’s population is slightly more male (50.7%) than female (49.3%). In 2023, 573,941 Montana residents were male, and 558,871 were female.

On average, Montana’s population is also slightly older (40.5 years old) than the U.S. average of 38.9 years. The largest age demographic in the state is those between 25 to 44 years old, accounting for 274,244 residents, or 24.2% of the population.

The vast majority of Montana residents are white, with residents in this demographic accounting for 88.7% of the population (nearly 1.01 million people). This is followed by Black and Hispanic residents, who account for 6.4% and 4.7% of the population, respectively.

Tips for moving to Montana

Not sure how to start your move to Montana? Consider these step-by-step moving tips:

1. Understand the cost of living

Montana’s cost-of-living index is slightly higher than the national average, but costs also vary within the state. Expect a higher cost of living in popular cities like Bozeman and Missoula, while rural areas may be more affordable. Before your move, it’s important to prepare a financial plan by researching property taxes, housing prices and utility costs. Online resources like Montana.gov can help with your budgeting needs.

2. Explore the job market

While sparsely populated, Montana boasts a diverse economy. Large cities like Billings and Helena offer career opportunities centered around health care, government and business. Conversely, rural regions may have more jobs focused on ranching, tourism and outdoor recreation. Check out online job boards and the Montana Department of Labor & Industry website to explore the available jobs in your field.

3. Prepare for harsh winters

Home to some of the coldest and snowiest regions in the U.S., any prospective mover should prepare for Montana’s winters. If you’re coming from a warmer state, be sure to invest in high-quality winter gear, including jackets, snow boots and gloves. We also recommend researching how to winterize your home and car, exploring items from heating materials to shovels and ice scrapers.

4. Ensure you have transportation

Being a large, sparsely populated state, most Montana residents rely on personal vehicles for travel. While major highways are well maintained, rural roads may require all-wheel-drive vehicles and snow tires. These roads may even be closed to the public during winter months. Research the safest and most accessible transportation routes using the Montana Department of Transportation website.

5. Be aware of natural hazards

The Rocky Mountains can be as dangerous as they are beautiful, as Montana is prone to wildfires, floods and harsh winter storms. In forested regions, wildfires are most common in the summer months, and floods and snowstorms can significantly disrupt travel in mountainous areas. Consider signing up for the latest weather alerts through Montana’s Department of Emergency Services.

6. Embrace outdoor recreation

Big Sky Country is known for its breathtaking landscapes, and you can get the most out of your residency by embracing outdoor recreation. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing or camping, Montana’s national parks and wilderness areas offer endless adventure. That includes the famous Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, as well as countless trails and rivers. Visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website to discover outdoor activities in your new area.

7. Understand mover quotes and tipping

When moving to Montana, carefully review and compare moving company quotes. Be sure to account for potential additional fees depending on where you’re relocating to. Tipping movers is customary; a tip of 10% to 20% of the total cost is standard based on the quality of service.