What is the capital of Montana?

The capital of Montana is Helena, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Billings is the largest city.

How many people live in Montana?

Montana has a population of approximately 1.13 million people, making it the 43rd most populous state in the U.S.

When was Montana admitted to the Union?

Montana was admitted to the Union on November 8, 1889, becoming the 41st state.

What is Montana known for?

Montana is known as Big Sky Country for its immense open landscapes, famous for Glacier National Park, fly fishing on the Madison River, the Little Bighorn Battlefield, vast cattle ranches, and containing portions of Yellowstone National Park.

Montana

Big Sky Country

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HelenaLoading…

Quick Stats

1.13MPopulation

#43Rank

1889Joined

147kArea (mi²)

Map

Seal & Motto

"Oro y Plata"

Additional Information

AbbreviationMT

Motto Origin

Spanish for "Gold and Silver."

Adopted 1865.

Official WebsiteMontana.gov

Population Growth

Overview

Montana, 'Big Sky Country,' captivates with its immense, seemingly endless landscapes and an unspoiled wilderness that inspires awe. Home to Glacier National Park and portions of Yellowstone, this fourth-largest state by area is a sanctuary for wildlife, world-class outdoor recreation, and a deep-rooted ranching and mining heritage.

Historical Significance

Montana officially joined the Union on November 8, 1889, as the 41st state. Its dramatic history spans from its role as a homeland for the Crow, Blackfeet, and Sioux nations, to the transformative 1860s gold and silver rushes, to the infamous Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, which shaped the final chapter of the frontier era.

Top Cities & Hubs

Billings

Population: ~117,000

The largest city in Montana and the regional economic hub for the entire northern Rocky Mountain region, a center for energy, healthcare, and agriculture serving a vast surrounding area.

Missoula

Population: ~75,000

Home to the University of Montana, this vibrant liberal arts city nestled in five mountain valleys is a celebrated hub for outdoor adventure, literary culture, and environmental advocacy.

Great Falls

Population: ~60,000

Situated on the Missouri River, this city is home to Malmstrom Air Force Base and Giant Springs State Park, where one of the largest freshwater springs in the world emerges.

Bozeman

Population: ~56,000

One of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, a booming gateway to Yellowstone National Park and a rising tech hub attracting remote workers with its stunning mountain surroundings.

Butte

Population: ~35,000

Historically known as "The Richest Hill on Earth" for its massive copper deposits, this historic mining city boasts a beautifully preserved National Historic Landmark District.

Neighbors

Region: West

Capital: Helena

Key Landmarks & Economy

Glacier National Park: Known as the "Crown of the Continent," this spectacular park features over 700 miles of trails, pristine alpine lakes, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road across the Continental Divide.

Little Bighorn Battlefield: The site of the famous 1876 battle between U.S. forces and the Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne nations, preserved as a National Monument commemorating the climactic clash of the frontier era.

Wild West Economy: Montana has more cattle than people, vast coal and oil reserves, world-class fly fishing, and booming wildlife tourism that collectively form the foundation of its unique frontier economy.

Did You Know?

Montana has more cattle than people — the state's cattle population outnumbers its human population by a ratio of roughly 3 to 1.
Glacier National Park straddles the Continental Divide, meaning rain falling on one side of the park flows to the Atlantic, while rain on the other side flows to the Pacific Ocean.
The spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is one of the most dramatic highways ever built, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass at 6,646 feet.