For years, Missoula’s economy was a product of its geographic location and natural resources. Today, many of the mills that spotted the western Montana landscape are remnants of the past.
Although most of the mills are gone, that doesn’t mean that Western Montana and Missoula have taken an economic nose dive. To the contrary, Missoula’s economic development is stronger than ever.
Recent years have seen an increasingly diverse Missoula economy. The University of Montana, government, healthcare, tourism, and professional services have replaced agriculture, mills, and natural resources as the major economic drivers of the region. Non-profits and public sectors have also enjoyed significant growth in Missoula, creating an abundance of highly sought-after jobs.
Missoulians represent a highly educated and dynamic workforce, something you may not expect in a metro area of roughly 100,000 residents.
- As of 2007, the population of Missoula County had 105,650 residents and growing
- 32.8% of residents hold at least a bachelor’s degree, compared to the national average of 24%
- In spite of the level of education, Missoulians earn a lower per capita income ($32,231) compared to the rest of the country ($44,458), according to 2007 data
Despite wages that are lower than average, most Missoulians find that the cost of living and quality of life more than make up for the lower average wage.
Whether it’s starting, growing, or relocating a business, seeking new employment, or planning for a move to Missoula, local resources are readily available to help.
The Missoula Area Economic Development Corporation (MAEDC) and the Montana Community Development Corporation (MCDC) have with a proven track record of assisting local businesses in getting established.
Fueled by a zeal for entrepreneurship and a growing population attracted to Missoula for reasons beyond employment, the future looks bright for western Montana.
