Polson, MT demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,428
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,418/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,885
5.2% year-over-year change

Polson population

How many people live in Polson

Polson is home to 5,428 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.3% of Polson locals are male, and 55.7% are female.

Total population
5,428
1.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.3%
2,407
Female
55.7%
3,021
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,407 44.3% -2.9%
Female 3,021 55.7% 5.8%
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 Polson is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 9.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.8% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 24.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
43
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
9.6%
25 to 44
22.8%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
24.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 999 18.4% 4.2%
15 to 24 523 9.6% -16.4%
25 to 44 1,240 22.8% 10.7%
45 to 64 1,318 24.3% -7.4%
Over 65 1,348 24.8% 11.8%
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 Polson, 97.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 70.1% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 14.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
1.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,278 97.2% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 48 0.9% 9.1%
Non-citizens 102 1.9% -9.7%
Racial breakdown
White
70.1%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
12.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
14.4%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 3,804 70.1%
Black or African American 17 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 655 12.1%
Asian 17 0.3%
Two or more races 781 14.4%
Other 154 2.8%

Households in Polson

A peek inside Polson households

Polson has 2,380 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.4% are families, while the remaining 46.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,380
4.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,109
Family households
1,271
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,109 46.6% 13.1%
Family households 1,271 53.4% -2.2%
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 Polson

The housing landscape of Polson

Polson's housing consists of 2,885 units, with 59.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% 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 4.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,885
5.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,723 59.7%
1 unit, attached 133 4.6%
2 units 152 5.3%
3 or 4 units 295 10.2%
5 to 9 units 215 7.4%
10 to 19 units 97 3.4%
20 to 49 units 66 2.3%
50 or more units 76 2.6%
Mobile home 128 4.4%
Homes built since 2020
43
19.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Polson

In Polson, the median construction year is 1983. About 13.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 389 13.5% 7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 143 5% 66.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 217 7.5% -6.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 108 3.7% -16.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 469 16.3% 5.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 333 11.5% -10.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 441 15.3% 21.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 561 19.4% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 181 6.3% 3.4%
Built in 2020 or later 43 1.5% 19.4%
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.

Polson occupancy rates

Out of the 2,380 occupied housing units in Polson, 54.6% are owner-occupied, while 45.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,380
4.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,081
Owner occupied
1,299
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,081 45.4% 0.1%
Owner occupied 1,299 54.6% 8.2%
Unoccupied housing units
17.5%
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.

Polson housing costs

Housing costs in Polson come to a median of $1,061 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $912.

Median housing costs per month
$1,061/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 Polson
$912/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 Polson

Polson education at a glance

About 36.3% of the population in Polson went to high school, while 24.2% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 17% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 68 1.6% 6.2%
High school diploma 1,574 36.3% -5.6%
College diploma 1,048 24.2% 8.6%
Associate degree 436 10% 13.8%
Bachelor's degree 738 17% 4.2%
Graduate degree 475 11% 10.5%
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 Polson

How much people earn in Polson

The average annual household income in Polson was $67,427 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,418, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Polson
$67,427/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Polson
$53,418/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Polson income by age

In Polson, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $55,335. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $82,757 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,563, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,870 in earnings. Overall, 82.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,563 53.0%
25 - 44 $55,335 0.5%
45 - 64 $82,757 20.4%
Over 65 $42,870 4.9%
Above poverty level
4,271
Below poverty level
923
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,271 82.2% 4.1%
Below poverty level 923 17.8% -11.0%

Average renter income in Polson

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Polson, their median household income was $37,553 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 29.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$37,553
Rent-to-income ratio
29.1%
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 Polson

Workforce and job types in Polson

The job market in Polson is powered by 2,228 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 65.6% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,228
-2.0% year-over-year change
White collar
1,884
Blue collar
344
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,884 84.6% -2.6%
Blue collar 344 15.4% 1.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
65.6%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 189 8.5% 2.7%
Private companies 1,461 65.6% 4.6%
Governmental workers 307 13.8% 7.3%
Not for profit companies 271 12.2% -33.4%
Unemployment rate
7.9%
13.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Polson stands at 7.9%, 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 Polson

How people get around in Polson

In Polson, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
4.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,942 88.6% -5.9%
Bicycle 52 2.4% 62.5%
Walk 73 3.3% -17.1%
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 Polson by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
59860 11,897 4,899 $62,047 $86,164

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FAQs about Polson demographics 

What is the total population of Polson?

Polson has a total population of 5,428 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 +1.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Polson?

The gender ratio in Polson is as follows:
  • 44.3% males (2,407 residents)
  • 55.7% females (3,021 residents)

What is the median age in Polson?

The median age in Polson is 43.

What is the age distribution of the population in Polson?

The age distribution in Polson is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (999 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.6% (523 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.8% (1,240 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (1,318 residents)
  • Over 65: 24.8% (1,348 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Polson?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Polson is as follows:
  • White: 70.1% (3,804 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (17 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 12.1% (655 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (17 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 14.4% (781 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (154 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.2% of the population in Polson.

How many housing units are there in Polson?

There are 2,885 housing units in Polson, reflecting a +5.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Polson has a total of 2,380 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Polson?

Polson has a median household income of $53,418, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.1% in Polson, with a workforce of 2,228 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.6% (1,884 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.4% (344 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (189 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.6% (1,461 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (307 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.2% (271 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