Montana State Population

Montana's modest population.

Montana, despite its vast size, has historically maintained a relatively sparse population, experiencing gradual growth often tied to boom-and-bust cycles of mining and agriculture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with periods of stagnation or even decline in between. However, the turn of the 21st century has ushered in a period of accelerating growth, particularly noticeable in recent years as the state has become a magnet for "amenity migrants" seeking open spaces, recreational opportunities, and a perceived higher quality of life. The COVID-19 pandemic further amplified this trend, with remote work capabilities drawing people from more densely populated areas, leading its population to surpass 1.1 million for the first time. This rapid influx is transforming the state, bringing demographic shifts, increased housing demand, and pressure on infrastructure, moving Montana from a historically slow-growing frontier to one of the nation's fastest-growing states percentage-wise.

Data Source: US Census Bureau