Montana , known as Big Sky Country , is a state of stunning innate beauty , mountain ranges and a growing population . Thelargest cities in Montanaare characterise by a mix of historical charm and modern development , wait on as gateway to outdoor adventures and economical hubs for their regions .
Whether you ’re seeking outdoor recreation , local shops , cultural consequence or a glimpse into the state ’s trailblazer history , Montana ’s urban center offer a divers raiment of experience . Here , we ’ve order Montana ’s largest metropolis by populationaccording to most recent datapublished by the United States Census Bureau .
1. Billings (120,900)
The largest in Montana , Billings is a major metropolis for commerce , wellness care and diligence . Known as the Magic City , it blow attractions like the Rimrocks , Yellowstone Art Museum and nearbyPompeys Pillar . Its growing downtown and proximity to Yellowstone National Park make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and travelers looking to quetch back .
billing serves as a trade hub for all of Montana , as well as neighboring state like Wyoming and the Dakotas . Comparatively , the rest of the land relies on manufacture that expect across-the-board assailable space like agriculture and ranching . The Magic City has the most urban amenities and by far the highest population density in the country , with up to 185,000residents including surrounding suburban area .
2. Missoula (77,750)
Missoula , nickname the " Garden City , " is avibrant college townand ethnical hotspot . Home to theUniversity of Montana , it offers a merry arts scene , historic downtown and admittance to outdoor bodily process like hiking and kayaking . The Clark Fork River and border mountains add to its scenic beauty .
3. Great Falls (60,400)
Located along the Missouri River in westerly Montana , Great Falls is known for its productive history and breathtaking landscapes . Thecity feature attractionslike the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center , Giant Springs State Park and the C.M. Russell Museum .
Great Falls is also known as the Electric City thanks to its large act of hydroelectric dams that supplying might to the surrounding region . Its solid community ties and recreational chance make it a groovy place to endure and confab .
4. Bozeman (57,300)
Bozeman is the largest city in south central Montana as well one of itsfastest - growing orbit , bang for its proximity to Yellowstone National Park and fly high tech diligence . Home to Montana State University , the cityboasts a youthful energy , outdoor activities and a dynamic downtown . The Museum of the Rockies and Bridger Bowl Ski Area are major attractions .
5. Butte (36,400)
Once a bustling mining town , Butteretains its historical charmand unique fiber . The city ’s fertile mining history is unmistakable in landmarks like the Berkeley Pit and the World Museum of Mining . Its yearly Evel Knievel Days and Folk Festival celebrate the city ’s heritage and culture .
6. Helena (34,460)
As Montana ’s state Washington , Helena issteeped in historyand civic pride . Known for its historic Last Chance Gulch and the stunning Montana State Capitol building , the capital city offers a commixture of ethnical attractions and outside recreation . The nearbyGates of the Mountains Wildernessis a must - travel to .
7. Kalispell (29,900)
Kalispellis the gateway to Glacier National Park — the northmost pointof the Rocky Mountains within the U.S — and Flathead Lake , make it a hub for outside enthusiast . The metropolis ’s charming downtown , historic Conrad Mansion Museum and proximity to natural wonders draw visitors twelvemonth - round . Its primary economy is centered around touristry and farming .
8. Belgrade (12,500)
turn up near Bozeman , Belgrade is a grow community with a modest - town smell . It answer as a residential hub for the Gallatin Valley and offers easy access code to out-of-door activities . Its penny-pinching proximity to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport makes it a commodious location .
9. Anaconda (9,700)
Anacondais a historic city with theme in Montana ’s gold rush mining diligence . smother by the Pintler Mountains , it propose access to outdoor adventures like hiking and sportfishing . The Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park and historic Washoe Theatre are noted landmark .
10. Havre (9,300)
Located near the Canadian border , Havreis a small city with a full-bodied railroad line and pioneer history . The Havre Beneath the Streets attraction proffer a coup d’oeil into its past , while nearby Beaver Creek Park provides outside refreshment . Its close - knit community and frontier spirit delimit its character .
Justsouth of Havreare the Bear Paw Mountains , a small rough range which jut out out of the relatively matte surrounding landscape painting . At their mellow spot , the Bear Paws reach an elevation of well-nigh 7,000 feet .
11. Whitefish (9,200)
Whitefishis a picturesque recourse town nestled near Glacier National Park . know for its ski slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort , the town also features a charming downtown with shop class , gallery and restaurants . Its year - round outdoor activities attract visitors from around the world .
12. Livingston (8,900)
Livingstonis a charming town on the Yellowstone River , known for its historic business district and esthetic community . Its proximity to Yellowstone National Park makes it a popular stoppage for travelers . Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy fishing , hiking and wildlife look out in the area .
13. Miles City (8,400)
Known as the " Cowboy Capital of Montana,“Miles Cityhas a rich ranching and rodeo history . The annual Miles City Bucking Horse Sale is a major event . The Range Riders Museum highlights the city ’s western inheritance , while the Yellowstone River cater scenic beauty .
14. Laurel (7,200)
A suburb of Billings , Laurelis a modest city with a favorable community and a focus on out-of-door refreshment . It ’s known for its annual Fourth of July celebration and nearby Yellowstone River memory access . The Laurel Golf Club is a popular local attraction .
15. Lewistown (6,100)
Lewistown , locate in fundamental Montana , is known for its scenic landscapes and small - town charm . The nearby Judith Mountains and Big Spring Creek proffer plenty of chance for out-of-door adventures . The metropolis ’s historic buildings and annual consequence reflect its mysterious - root community pride .
We create this clause in conjunction with AI technology , then made sure it was fact - checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor .
