Missoula County, MT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
120,672
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,598/yr
6.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
56,930
1.6% year-over-year change

Missoula County population

How many people live in Missoula County

Missoula County is home to 120,672 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Missoula County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
120,672
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
60,538
Female
49.8%
60,134
Value Percent YoY change
Male 60,538 50.2% 0.7%
Female 60,134 49.8% 1.1%
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 Missoula County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 16.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.8% of the population, while another 22% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
16.2%
25 to 44
29.8%
45 to 64
22%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 17,854 14.8% -1.3%
15 to 24 19,604 16.2% 1.8%
25 to 44 35,969 29.8% 0.3%
45 to 64 26,562 22% 0.0%
Over 65 20,683 17.1% 4.0%
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 Missoula County, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.9% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 1.6% have Asian roots. Another 2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 116,054 96.2% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,003 2.5% 5.8%
Non-citizens 1,615 1.3% 3.1%
Racial breakdown
White
86.9%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.4%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 104,875 86.9%
Black or African American 518 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2,472 2%
Asian 1,920 1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 159 0.1%
Two or more races 8,921 7.4%
Other 1,807 1.5%

Households in Missoula County

A peek inside Missoula County households

Missoula County has 52,679 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.1% are families, while the remaining 45.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
52,679
2.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
24,193
Family households
28,486
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 24,193 45.9% 2.3%
Family households 28,486 54.1% 1.7%
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 Missoula County

The housing landscape of Missoula County

Missoula County's housing consists of 56,930 units, with 57.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5% 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 8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
56,930
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 32,859 57.7%
1 unit, attached 2,837 5%
2 units 2,402 4.2%
3 or 4 units 3,467 6.1%
5 to 9 units 2,580 4.5%
10 to 19 units 2,828 5%
20 to 49 units 3,022 5.3%
50 or more units 2,254 4%
Mobile home 4,556 8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 125 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
1,411
116.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Missoula County

In Missoula County, the median construction year is 1985. About 10.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,832 10.2% -2.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,076 3.6% -2.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,716 6.5% 5.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,608 8.1% -4.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,358 16.4% 3.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,936 10.4% 0.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 7,259 12.8% -5.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,201 16.2% 3.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 7,533 13.2% 3.6%
Built in 2020 or later 1,411 2.5% 116.1%
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.

Missoula County occupancy rates

Out of the 52,679 occupied housing units in Missoula County, 58.8% are owner-occupied, while 41.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
52,679
2.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
21,701
Owner occupied
30,978
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 21,701 41.2% 4.2%
Owner occupied 30,978 58.8% 0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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.

Missoula County housing costs

Housing costs in Missoula County come to a median of $1,319 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,190.

Median housing costs per month
$1,319/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 Missoula County
$1,190/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 Missoula County

Missoula County education at a glance

About 24.9% of the population in Missoula County went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 27.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 978 1% -8.6%
High school diploma 24,604 24.9% 0.4%
College diploma 23,272 23.6% -2.4%
Associate degree 7,438 7.5% -4.0%
Bachelor's degree 26,828 27.2% 3.0%
Graduate degree 15,615 15.8% 8.9%
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 Missoula County

How much people earn in Missoula County

The average annual household income in Missoula County was $103,306 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,598, reflecting a +6.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Missoula County
$103,306/year
5.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Missoula County
$75,598/year
6.1% year-over-year change

Missoula County income by age

In Missoula County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,933. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $91,719 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,879, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,593 in earnings. Overall, 89.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,879 20.8%
25 - 44 $82,933 7.2%
45 - 64 $91,719 4.7%
Over 65 $60,593 1.4%
Above poverty level
105,093
Below poverty level
11,938
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 105,093 89.8% 1.8%
Below poverty level 11,938 10.2% -6.4%

Employment in Missoula County

Workforce and job types in Missoula County

The job market in Missoula County is powered by 68,017 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.9% run their own businesses, 59.5% are employed by private companies, and 15.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
68,017
2.2% year-over-year change
White collar
54,935
Blue collar
13,082
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 54,935 80.8% 1.9%
Blue collar 13,082 19.2% 3.2%
Employer type
Self employees
13.9%
Private companies
59.5%
Governmental workers
15.8%
Not for profit companies
10.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 9,455 13.9% 5.0%
Private companies 40,445 59.5% 0.4%
Governmental workers 10,729 15.8% 1.9%
Not for profit companies 7,388 10.9% 9.2%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
-14.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Missoula County stands at 3.7%, 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 Missoula County

How people get around in Missoula County

In Missoula County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 51,408 77.3% 0.7%
Taxicab 7 0% -68.2%
Bus or trolleybus 752 1.1% -23.0%
Motorcycle 124 0.2% -26.2%
Bicycle 1,878 2.8% -8.8%
Walk 2,102 3.2% -1.7%
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 Missoula County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
59801 30,916 15,038 $58,347 $84,396
59802 19,864 9,530 $67,736 $92,408
59803 18,401 6,774 $111,925 $146,421
59804 8,123 3,352 $76,266 $110,875
59808 23,574 10,174 $80,239 $109,087
59820 1,834 760 $69,091 $88,659
59821 2,994 999 $66,458 $83,754
59823 1,931 819 $82,813 $109,051
59825 2,434 946 $90,192 $116,813
59826 518 282 $52,813 $63,511

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FAQs about Missoula County demographics 

What is the total population of Missoula County?

Missoula County has a total population of 120,672 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 +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Missoula County?

The gender ratio in Missoula County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (60,538 residents)
  • 49.8% females (60,134 residents)

What is the median age in Missoula County?

The median age in Missoula County is 37.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Missoula County?

The age distribution in Missoula County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (17,854 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.2% (19,604 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.8% (35,969 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22% (26,562 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (20,683 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Missoula County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Missoula County is as follows:
  • White: 86.9% (104,875 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (518 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2% (2,472 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (1,920 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (159 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.4% (8,921 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (1,807 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Missoula County.

How many housing units are there in Missoula County?

There are 56,930 housing units in Missoula County, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Missoula County has a total of 52,679 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Missoula County?

Missoula County has a median household income of $75,598, representing a +6.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Missoula County?

The employment rate is 96.3% in Missoula County, with a workforce of 68,017 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.8% (54,935 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.2% (13,082 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.9% (9,455 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.5% (40,445 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.8% (10,729 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.9% (7,388 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