Montana
Category Breakdown
Scores by Category
Montana vs National Average
12-Month Composite Trend
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Montana Rankings Overview
Montana earns an overall grade of B with a composite score of 58.5 out of 100, ranking #20 among all 50 US states. The state's strongest category is Environment (70/100) while its biggest challenge is Economy (49/100).
Economy & Employment in Montana
With an unemployment rate of 3.7% (compared to the national average of 3.8%), Montana performs above average on economic indicators. The median household income is $72,340, which ranks below the national median of $74,753.
Safety & Crime in Montana
Montana's violent crime rate of 377 per 100,000 residents places it in the bottom half of states for public safety.
Health & Education in Montana
Montana ranks #20 for health outcomes according to the 2025 America's Health Rankings report, and #20 for K-12 education quality based on NAEP scores and graduation rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Montana's overall ranking?
Montana ranks #20 out of 50 states with a composite score of 58.5/100 and a grade of B.
Is Montana a good place to live?
Montana scores 58.5/100 overall, placing it in the middle tier of US states. It has notable strengths in certain categories while facing challenges in others, making it a reasonable choice depending on individual priorities and preferences.
What is the crime rate in Montana?
The violent crime rate in Montana is 377 per 100,000 residents (2024 FBI data), compared to the national average of 350 per 100,000.
How does Montana's economy compare?
Montana's median household income is $72,340 with an unemployment rate of 3.7%. The unemployment rate is below the national average of 3.8%, and the median income is below the national median of $74,753.
What are the best cities in Montana?
Montana's major metropolitan areas offer diverse options for residents.