The Largest Cities in Montana

Montana’s largest cities are gateways to the wild: mountain views, rivers that run through downtown, and a pace of life that feels refreshingly unhurried. Each one offers its own blend of frontier spirit and community pride.

I’m sipping coffee in Missoula as kayakers drift down the Clark Fork River—and minutes later, I’m hiking a pine-covered trail right outside the city.

Billings tops the list as Montana’s largest city, with a growing downtown, rimrock views, and access to Yellowstone. Missoula follows with a college-town buzz, strong arts scene, and riverside charm. Great Falls honors its military roots and Lewis & Clark history with museums and Missouri River trails. In the northwest, Bozeman combines tech, ski-town vibes, and stunning mountain backdrops. And Butte rounds out the list with mining heritage, striking architecture, and a gritty-cool personality that’s uniquely Montana.

"From mountain towns to prairie skies—Montana’s cities are few in number but rich in character."