Montana Population Growth Slows After Pandemic Surge

Montana added 7,137 residents between July 2024 and July 2025, but growth slowed in many cities.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s annual interim estimates show that while Montana’s population continues to climb, the rapid expansion seen during the 2020-2021 pandemic period has largely tapered off. This signals a structural shift in population dynamics across the state’s urban centers.

Population growth peaked at 19,260 new residents between 2020 and 2021 but dropped to 6,945 in 2023-2024 and slightly increased to 7,137 in the most recent year. Incorporated cities accounted for under 3,800 new residents in 2025, down from 4,300 the prior year. Notably, Billings saw a population decline of 206 people (-0.2%), while cities like Missoula, Bozeman, and Kalispell still posted gains, though at slower rates. Kalispell’s growth since 2020 remains impressive at nearly 6,600 new residents, a 26% increase, even as its pace slowed and it lost its status as the state’s largest annual population gainer.

These figures derive from the Census Bureau’s interim estimates, which fill gaps between decennial population counts.

While Montana’s population growth continues, the easing of prior surges could influence business and infrastructure planning.

For Montana businesses, understanding these moderated growth trends is crucial. The state’s vast geography and dispersed population centers might mean that slower urban growth affects labor markets and consumer bases differently than in more densely populated regions. Businesses may need to consider how these shifts align with Montana’s economic rhythms and community development patterns.

Montana growth continues, but gains slow across major cities
By Jacob Olness, Montana Free Press