Missoula, MT
Why You’ll Love Living in Missoula, Montana
Tucked in the heart of the northern Rockies, Missoula, Montana’s rugged mountains, sweeping rivers and vast forests invite an endless array of recreational activities all year long. Missoula’s expanding job market includes industries such as software development, data analysis and digital marketing. And thanks to its rugged surroundings, you can also find positions in a variety of outdoor and recreation industries, such as tour companies, retail gear and event planning. Missoula is an inclusive and welcoming community with a reputation as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the country.
Thinking of moving to Missoula, Montana? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Missoula, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Missoula, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Missoula, MT, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Missoula, MT, welcomes residents with friendly faces, wide-open spaces and some attractive career opportunities. The city is home to the state’s flagship university, the University of Montana, which adds to Missoula’s creative vibe. That artistic spark can be seen at places like the Missoula Art Museum, the Missoula Symphony, and at film festivals and independent bookstores, among other creative outlets.
As one of the best places to live in the U.S., Missoula – situated at the confluence of three rivers – also beckons with a giant outdoor playground in the Northern Rockies full of wilderness areas. Residents can hike, ski, float and fly-fish or create their own adventures either at home or in adjacent scenic areas. All of that natural beauty is why Missoula residents have a strong sense of environmentalism and work to protect their awesome surroundings.
The city’s stable economy consists of a growing biosciences sector supported by the Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative, various high-tech jobs, and activity in health care, education and retail. Yet, despite the advanced jobs, Missoula maintains a small-town feel with a population of close to 78,000. It’s a great place to grow a business and a family with a quality of life that’s hard to beat.
Missoula, MT Quality of Life LivScore
Missoula, MT Top Categories
Transportation
Education
Environment
Missoula ranks highest for transportation, education and environment.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Missoula, MT
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).
The average annual snowfall in Missoula is 45 inches a year, with December being the snowiest month on average.
The average annual rainfall in Missoula is below the national average at just 16 inches a year.
Missoula averages 152 sunny days a year.
Thirteen hot springs are within a two-hour reach of Missoula, making for a relaxing getaway. But if you’re looking to stay closer to home, grab your four-legged friends and head to Jacobs Island Bark Park, a 6-acre dog park along the Clark Fork River. Be sure to take a spin on the historic and majestic carousel and check out nearby Caras Park.
Things To Do in Missoula, MT
Slip away to the forest and take a hike (or go snowshoeing in the winter) at Rattlesnake National Recreation Area & Wilderness.
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.
Missoula is all about the outdoors. The city is home to an extensive system of urban trails that wind throughout the city and surrounding areas. Riverfront Trail and Mount Jumbo Trail are two favorites among locals.
For the bookworm, pay a visit to Fact & Fiction Bookstore, an indie bookstore with a wide selection of titles that spotlight many Montana authors. Downtown is also filled with local boutiques and galleries, making it a fun place to explore for unique items.
The Notorious P.I.G. is a popular barbecue restaurant known for its smoked meat and downright delectable menu crafted using techniques and recipes from St. Louis pitmasters. Many residents enjoy this spot’s casual but lively atmosphere.
Looking for a great night out on the town? The Wilma is a historic theatre on Higgins built in 1921 and dedicated to opera artist Edna Wilma. It’s a great place to catch movies, film festivals, and a slew of other concerts and shows.
Happy hour starts at 4:06 on the dot at Stave & Hoop, a speakeasy with burgers and classic cocktails. (BTW, 406 is the area code in Missoula).
The Local and State Economy in Missoula, MT
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.
Montana does not have a state sales tax, and no local sales taxes apply in Missoula.
Yes, Montana has a state income tax.
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.
There are several colleges and universities in Missoula, including the University of Montana.
Weather in Missoula, MT
Average Temperatures
58 High / 34 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
16 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
45 Inches
Quick Facts about Missoula, Montana
- Median Home Value
- $348,796
- Median Property Tax
- $2,588
- Total Population
- 77,980
- Average Commute
- 13 min
- Median Household Income
- $65,477
- Median Rent per Month
- $907
Map of Missoula, MT
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