An aerial view of Missoula, MT. Located in the Northern Rockies, Missoula offers world-class outdoor recreation as well as an impressive arts and culture scene while retaining a small-town feel, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S.
iStock/Jon Bilous

Missoula, MTBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Under the Big Sky of Montana, Missoula has unparalleled natural beauty. The city’s endless outdoor activities, friendly locals, renowned breweries and strong sense of environmental stewardship cultivate a tight-knit community.

Missoula, MT, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

Located in the Northern Rockies, Missoula, MT, is a giant playground for outdoor lovers. As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Missoula is surrounded by wilderness areas and located at the confluence of three rivers, so the adventures are limitless, from hiking to skiing to floating the river and, of course, fly fishing. Plus, did you know you can surf in this landlocked state, too? The manmade Brennan’s Wave rolls along the Clark Fork River. Afterward, residents have an all-natural hot tub to soak sore muscles in: Lolo Hot Springs is reachable in under an hour. 

In addition to all of that world-class recreation, Missoula has an impressive arts and culture scene, with institutions like the Missoula Art Museum and the Missoula Symphony, as well as film festivals, author chats at independent bookstores and an Art Deco-style movie theater.  

Those who move here are welcomed by friendly neighbors, wide-open spaces and all kinds of career opportunities. Missoula is home to the University of Montana, the state’s flagship university, and the dynamic economy is made up of creative professions, high-tech jobs and a growing biosciences sector, which the Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative supports.

Missoula has retained a small-town atmosphere with a population of roughly 75,000. The economy is stable and growing, the quality of life is off the charts, and it’s a great place to raise a family — need we say more?

Missoula, MT Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 689

Missoula, MT Top Categories

  • Transportation

  • Environment

  • Education

Missoula ranks highest for transportation, environment and education.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Missoula, MT

What is the weather like in Missoula?

Missoula has four distinct seasons, with river tubing popular in the summer months and skiing and boarding at Snowbowl in the winter. The average highs and lows are 81°F and 50°F (summer) and 36°F and 20°F (winter).

Does Missoula get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Missoula is an astounding 40 inches a year, with December being the snowiest month on average.  

Does Missoula get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Missoula is below the national average at just 15 inches. 

How many sunny days does Missoula get?

Missoula averages 159 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Missoula?

Float the Clark Fork River. A popular route is a leisurely float from Sha-Ron River Access to Caras Park. To really go with the flow, you could consider Clark Fort Yacht Club to be your river floating concierge and handle all the logistics.

Missoula Weather

159 days

Average Annual Sun

15 inches

Average Annual Rain

40 inches

Average Annual Snow

Things To Do in Missoula, MT

What makes Missoula special?

Missoula was the backdrop for “A River Runs Through It,” the 1992 film adaptation of the book. The movie, starring Brad Pitt, put the spotlight on blue trout fishing in Missoula.

What are some free things to do in Missoula?

Slip away to the forest and take a hike (or go snowshoeing in the winter) at Rattlesnake National Recreation Area & Wilderness

What are some fun things to do with kids in Missoula?

Visit the Spectrum Discovery Area for its hands-on science exhibits. Or take the family to Dragon Hollow, an absolutely massive inclusive play area with a three-headed dragon. On certain days, the nearby carousel is free for kids to ride, too.

Where should you take a date in Missoula? 

Make your own masterpieces at Create Art Bar, a DIY workshop and bar serving craft cocktails in downtown Missoula.

Outdoor activities in Missoula, MT, are limitless, from hiking to skiing to fly fishing, shown here. Missoula is one of the best places to live in the U.S.
iStock/johnrandallalves
Outdoor activities in Missoula, MT, are limitless, from hiking to skiing to fly fishing, making the city one of the best places to live in the U.S.

The Local and State Economy in Missoula, MT

What are the three largest industries in Missoula?

Missoula has a diverse economy with several major industries contributing to the local economy, including health care, education and retail. The largest employers are the University of Montana, Providence St. Patrick Hospital and Missoula County Public Schools. 

What is the sales tax rate in Missoula?

Montana does not have a state sales tax, and no local sales taxes apply in Missoula. 

Does Montana have a state income tax?

Yes, Montana has a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Missoula?

Providence St. Patrick Hospital keeps Missoula residents in good health. According to U.S. News & World Report, the hospital performs highly in two adult specialties and 13 procedures and conditions. 

What colleges and universities are in Missoula?

There are several colleges and universities in Missoula, MT, including the University of Montana. 

Quick Facts About Missoula, MT

Median Household Income
$56,172
iStock/johnrandallalves
Median Home Value
$350,017
iStock/johnrandallalves
Average State Property Tax
$1,676
iStock/johnrandallalves
Total Population
75,300
iStock/johnrandallalves
Median Rent/Mo.
$912
iStock/johnrandallalves
Average Commute
13.04 minutes
iStock/johnrandallalves

High performance in education, transportation and environment all contribute to Missoula’s place as Montana’s only city to make the best places to live list. Learn more about living in Missoula, or consider other great places to live in out West. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

Newsletter Sign Up

Keep up to date with our latest rankings and articles!
Enter your email to be added to our mailing list.