Missoula, MT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
76,514
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,392/yr
7.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,317
2.8% year-over-year change

Missoula population

How many people live in Missoula

Missoula is home to 76,514 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Missoula locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
76,514
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
37,444
Female
51.1%
39,070
Value Percent YoY change
Male 37,444 48.9% 1.2%
Female 39,070 51.1% 1.2%
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 is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.4% are children under 15, then 19.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 32.2% of the population, while another 20.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.4%
15 to 24
19.2%
25 to 44
32.2%
45 to 64
20.1%
Over 65
15%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,245 13.4% -4.1%
15 to 24 14,702 19.2% 2.3%
25 to 44 24,676 32.2% 1.3%
45 to 64 15,394 20.1% 1.6%
Over 65 11,497 15% 4.3%
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, 96% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.4% of locals are Caucasian, 0.4% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 2.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
1.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 73,494 96% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,823 2.4% 10.6%
Non-citizens 1,197 1.6% 5.5%
Racial breakdown
White
86.4%
Black or African American
0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.1%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 66,142 86.4%
Black or African American 324 0.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,588 2.1%
Asian 908 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 132 0.2%
Two or more races 6,376 8.3%
Other 1,044 1.4%

Households in Missoula

A peek inside Missoula households

Missoula has 34,941 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.6% are families, while the remaining 53.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
34,941
2.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
18,652
Family households
16,289
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,652 53.4% 3.4%
Family households 16,289 46.6% 2.4%
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 Missoula

The housing landscape of Missoula

Missoula's housing consists of 37,317 units, with 48.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.5% 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 4.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,317
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 18,160 48.7%
1 unit, attached 2,425 6.5%
2 units 2,078 5.6%
3 or 4 units 2,913 7.8%
5 to 9 units 2,359 6.3%
10 to 19 units 2,727 7.3%
20 to 49 units 2,878 7.7%
50 or more units 2,179 5.8%
Mobile home 1,526 4.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 72 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
1,061
172.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Missoula

In Missoula, the median construction year is 1981. About 13.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15% 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 4,895 13.1% -3.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,828 4.9% -0.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,881 7.7% 7.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,263 8.7% -7.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,426 14.5% 11.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,324 8.9% -0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,150 8.4% -8.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,897 15.8% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,592 15% 1.6%
Built in 2020 or later 1,061 2.8% 172.8%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 34,941 occupied housing units in Missoula, 47% are owner-occupied, while 53% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
34,941
2.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
18,521
Owner occupied
16,420
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 18,521 53% 4.4%
Owner occupied 16,420 47% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
6.4%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Missoula come to a median of $1,330 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,189.

Median housing costs per month
$1,330/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
$1,189/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

Missoula education at a glance

About 21.7% of the population in Missoula went to high school, while 23.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 30.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 508 0.8% -8.3%
High school diploma 13,865 21.7% -1.3%
College diploma 15,165 23.8% -1.1%
Associate degree 4,330 6.8% -4.1%
Bachelor's degree 19,183 30.1% 5.5%
Graduate degree 10,742 16.8% 6.2%
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

How much people earn in Missoula

The average annual household income in Missoula was $95,106 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,392, reflecting a +7.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Missoula
$95,106/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Missoula
$70,392/year
7.8% year-over-year change

Missoula income by age

In Missoula, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,279. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,871 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,421 in earnings. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,000 16.2%
25 - 44 $77,279 5.7%
45 - 64 $89,871 7.0%
Over 65 $59,421 0.8%
Above poverty level
64,836
Below poverty level
8,728
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 64,836 88.1% 2.3%
Below poverty level 8,728 11.9% -6.6%

Average renter income in Missoula

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Missoula, their median household income was $42,479 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.6%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,479
Rent-to-income ratio
33.6%
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 Missoula

Workforce and job types in Missoula

The job market in Missoula is powered by 45,370 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.2% run their own businesses, 59.4% are employed by private companies, and 16.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
45,370
2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
37,639
Blue collar
7,731
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 37,639 83% 1.7%
Blue collar 7,731 17% 4.5%
Employer type
Self employees
13.2%
Private companies
59.4%
Governmental workers
16.2%
Not for profit companies
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,013 13.2% 7.9%
Private companies 26,935 59.4% -0.8%
Governmental workers 7,353 16.2% 3.8%
Not for profit companies 5,069 11.2% 9.7%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-18.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Missoula stands at 3.8%, 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

How people get around in Missoula

In Missoula, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 74.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 33,140 74.7% 1.1%
Taxicab 7 0% -68.2%
Bus or trolleybus 683 1.5% -19.5%
Motorcycle 99 0.2% 3.1%
Bicycle 1,668 3.8% -7.3%
Walk 1,884 4.2% 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 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

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FAQs about Missoula demographics 

What is the total population of Missoula?

Missoula has a total population of 76,514 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 +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Missoula?

The gender ratio in Missoula is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (37,444 residents)
  • 51.1% females (39,070 residents)

What is the median age in Missoula?

The median age in Missoula is 34.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Missoula?

The age distribution in Missoula is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.4% (10,245 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 19.2% (14,702 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 32.2% (24,676 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.1% (15,394 residents)
  • Over 65: 15% (11,497 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Missoula?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Missoula is as follows:
  • White: 86.4% (66,142 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.4% (324 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.1% (1,588 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (908 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (132 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (6,376 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (1,044 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96% of the population in Missoula.

How many housing units are there in Missoula?

There are 37,317 housing units in Missoula, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Missoula has a total of 34,941 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Missoula?

Missoula has a median household income of $70,392, representing a +7.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Missoula, with a workforce of 45,370 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83% (37,639 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17% (7,731 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.2% (6,013 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.4% (26,935 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.2% (7,353 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.2% (5,069 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