MSN, in its “Best Places for Outdoor Activities,” noted that “Missoula is the place to move to if you want both big-city amenities and out and out wilderness.”
Those qualities underlie the diverse employment opportunities that are found in Missoula. The leading industry sectors include health care and social assistance; local, state and federal government; professional and technical services; construction; retail trade; and accommodations and food services.
As a major cultural center in the state, Missoula also offers many opportunities for employment in the arts and entertainment arena—galleries, museums, theater and music venues.
With the wealth of recreational opportunities and the forested surroundings, seasonal employment is another component of the employment picture. Rivers, trails, ski areas, golf courses, parks and maintenance of healthy forests all provide opportunities for seasonal employment throughout the year.
The list below represents the top employers in the City of Missoula in 2009, according to the Missoulian. Results are shown in descending order by number of total employees.
Missoula’s Top Employers


