The 5 Biggest Cities in Montana

1) BILLINGS

Billings may be Montana’s largest city with a population of 120,864, but it still maintains a sense of small-town charm. While real estate prices have risen here, just like across the rest of the state, they remain more affordable than in other Montana cities. The local economy thrives on key industries like energy, agriculture, and tourism. Notably, Billings is home to some of the state’s largest employers, including Billings Clinic, which started here and now serves communities across Montana, and First Interstate Bank, headquartered right in the heart of the city.

What really sets Billings apart, though, is its unique landscape. Nestled between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains, the city is framed by the stunning Rimrocks—sandstone formations offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and rock climbing.

Photo credit Marriott.com

2) MISSOULA

Missoula, Montana’s second-largest city with a population of 77,757, is the state's cool, laid-back college town. Home to the University of Montana, it has a unique, artsy vibe that sets it apart from the rest of the state. Major industries in Missoula include health care, retail, mining, and agriculture. While housing costs have been rising, they aren't the most expensive in the state.

What really draws people to Missoula, though, is its outdoor lifestyle. With the Clark Fork River winding through the heart of town, a local ski hill just minutes away, and easy access to tons of public lands, outdoor recreation is a way of life here. The vibrant downtown scene, filled with dining, shopping, and community events year-round, adds to the city’s lively and welcoming atmosphere.

3) GREAT FALLS

Great Falls, with a population of 60,422, ranks as Montana’s third-largest city. Located near the center of the state, it’s earned the nickname “The Electric City” thanks to its numerous dams and power plants. Two of Montana's largest employers call Great Falls home: Benefis Health System and Fringe Benefit Resource. The city’s economy is driven by bio-processing, food production, and agriculture.

In terms of Montana real estate, Great Falls stands out as one of the most affordable places to live. The Missouri River flows through town, offering residents easy access to the scenic River’s Edge Trail—a favorite spot for walking, biking, fishing, and picnicking.

Photo credit Reddit

4) BOZEMAN

Bozeman may still be a relatively small town with a population of 57,305, but it's one of the fastest-growing cities of its size in the nation. Nestled in southwest Montana, it’s home to Montana State University, the largest college in the state. Bozeman Health and Montana State University are two of the city’s largest employers, alongside a rapidly expanding tech sector and a thriving start-up scene.

With all this growth, Bozeman has become one of the priciest places to live in Montana, with median home prices soaring above $700,000. Despite the rising costs, Bozeman’s outdoor appeal remains unbeatable. Surrounded by mountain ranges, rivers, and just an hour from two ski resorts, outdoor recreation is a way of life here. The vibrant downtown is packed with restaurants, shops, and local events, giving the city a lively, energetic atmosphere year-round.

5) BUTTE

Butte, with a population of 35,701, was once Montana's bustling mining hub and the state's first major city. Its rich history still runs deep, and locals take great pride in their hard-working, small-town roots. One of Montana’s largest employers, Town Pump, started in Butte and has since grown to over 200 locations. The city is also home to Montana Tech University and Highlands College of Montana Tech.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Butte is perfectly situated near the Continental Divide Trail, offering endless adventure. The Big Hole River, just south of the city, is known for blue-ribbon trout fishing, and there’s easy access to public lands for hiking, hunting, ATVing, and more.