Helena, MT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
33,639
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,036/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,591
0.1% year-over-year change

Helena population

How many people live in Helena

Helena is home to 33,639 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of Helena locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
33,639
1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
16,090
Female
52.2%
17,549
Value Percent YoY change
Male 16,090 47.8% 2.7%
Female 17,549 52.2% 0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Helena is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 22.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
22.3%
Over 65
21.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,246 15.6% -2.3%
15 to 24 4,387 13% 3.8%
25 to 44 9,204 27.4% 4.6%
45 to 64 7,508 22.3% -2.8%
Over 65 7,294 21.7% 4.2%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Helena, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.9% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,868 97.7% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 623 1.8% -4.7%
Non-citizens 148 0.4% -26.0%
Racial breakdown
White
89.4%
Black or African American
0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.3%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 30,071 89.4%
Black or African American 302 0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 678 2%
Asian 183 0.5%
Two or more races 2,129 6.3%
Other 276 0.8%

Households in Helena

A peek inside Helena households

Helena has 15,774 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 47.5% are families, while the remaining 52.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,774
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,284
Family households
7,490
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,284 52.5% 3.5%
Family households 7,490 47.5% 0.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Helena

The housing landscape of Helena

Helena's housing consists of 16,591 units, with 51.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,591
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,547 51.5%
1 unit, attached 969 5.8%
2 units 1,129 6.8%
3 or 4 units 2,444 14.7%
5 to 9 units 964 5.8%
10 to 19 units 616 3.7%
20 to 49 units 737 4.4%
50 or more units 597 3.6%
Mobile home 588 3.5%
Homes built since 2020
462
66.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Helena

In Helena, the median construction year is 1974. About 21.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,588 21.6% 3.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 956 5.8% 9.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,419 8.6% -8.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,247 7.5% 5.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,465 14.9% 0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,373 8.3% -11.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,545 9.3% -4.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,494 9% -8.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,042 12.3% 4.3%
Built in 2020 or later 462 2.8% 66.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Helena occupancy rates

Out of the 15,774 occupied housing units in Helena, 52.6% are owner-occupied, while 47.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 4.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,774
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,471
Owner occupied
8,303
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,471 47.4% 4.5%
Owner occupied 8,303 52.6% -0.2%
Unoccupied housing units
4.9%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Helena housing costs

Housing costs in Helena come to a median of $1,137 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,092.

Median housing costs per month
$1,137/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Helena
$1,092/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Helena

Helena education at a glance

About 24.6% of the population in Helena went to high school, while 19.5% pursued college studies. Another 7.7% earned an associate degree and 31.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 189 0.7% 5.6%
High school diploma 6,697 24.6% 4.5%
College diploma 5,297 19.5% -1.0%
Associate degree 2,105 7.7% -6.7%
Bachelor's degree 8,493 31.2% 2.7%
Graduate degree 4,442 16.3% 1.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Helena

How much people earn in Helena

The average annual household income in Helena was $98,000 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,036, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Helena
$98,000/year
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Helena
$71,036/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Helena income by age

In Helena, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,453. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $74,696 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,580, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,238 in earnings. Overall, 91.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,580 21.0%
25 - 44 $86,453 5.5%
45 - 64 $74,696 -2.0%
Over 65 $54,238 2.1%
Above poverty level
29,176
Below poverty level
2,855
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 29,176 91.1% 2.1%
Below poverty level 2,855 8.9% -1.5%

Average renter income in Helena

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Helena, their median household income was $47,053 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 27.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,053
Rent-to-income ratio
27.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Helena

Workforce and job types in Helena

The job market in Helena is powered by 16,672 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.1% run their own businesses, 45.8% are employed by private companies, and 27.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
16,672
2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
14,596
Blue collar
2,076
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,596 87.6% 2.6%
Blue collar 2,076 12.4% -2.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.1%
Private companies
45.8%
Governmental workers
27.8%
Not for profit companies
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,690 10.1% 2.9%
Private companies 7,630 45.8% -1.3%
Governmental workers 4,628 27.8% 5.2%
Not for profit companies 2,724 16.3% 6.0%
Unemployment rate
2.9%
-5.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Helena stands at 2.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Helena

How people get around in Helena

Commuting methods vary: 73.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 7.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,319 73.6% 1.4%
Bus or trolleybus 53 0.3% 1.9%
Bicycle 270 1.6% 23.3%
Walk 1,214 7.3% -11.1%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Helena by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
59601 31,728 14,984 $72,290 $98,929
59602 30,754 11,688 $92,985 $112,682

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FAQs about Helena demographics 

What is the total population of Helena?

Helena has a total population of 33,639 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Helena?

The gender ratio in Helena is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (16,090 residents)
  • 52.2% females (17,549 residents)

What is the median age in Helena?

The median age in Helena is 40.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Helena?

The age distribution in Helena is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (5,246 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (4,387 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (9,204 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.3% (7,508 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.7% (7,294 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Helena?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Helena is as follows:
  • White: 89.4% (30,071 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.9% (302 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2% (678 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (183 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.3% (2,129 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (276 residents)

What percentage of the population in Helena are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Helena.

How many housing units are there in Helena?

There are 16,591 housing units in Helena, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Helena and what is the average household size?

Helena has a total of 15,774 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Helena?

Helena has a median household income of $71,036, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Helena?

The employment rate is 97.1% in Helena, with a workforce of 16,672 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.6% (14,596 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.4% (2,076 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.1% (1,690 residents)
  • Private companies: 45.8% (7,630 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 27.8% (4,628 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.3% (2,724 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025